I am always surprised by the numbers of people who don't vote. (It seems such an easy thing to do- paper, pen, reading glasses, done.) And I do understand not feeling comfortable with my knowledge level- there have been times where I left things blank instead of choosing. But just NOT voting makes no sense to me.
At a recent meeting, a presenter for a local School Distrcit was telling us about 2 Levies that will be on the February ballot- this is how our schools raise money for things like sports and music and computers. She went through all the reaasons so support them, as well as reviewing the problems that could happen if they don't pass.
But then she made a statement that really struck me:
"Only 25% of the potential voters in North Thurston School District are registered to vote."
Gasp. Choke. Sputtter. 
Floored. Appalled. Indignant.
And really... not all that surprised at the end of the fit.
I don't know if her numbers are entirely accurate. But like I said... it wouldn't suprise me.
Here is some math about who makes the decisions:
Let's say the number was acutally closer to 30% of registered voters.
And let's say a third of those people actually mail in their ballots.
That equals a whopping 9.9% who have chosen the direction of a school districts funding.
For 100% of the taxpayers.
For a bit of a funny- According to the speaker, the best supporters this school district has is the two VERY large retirement communities.
Ok- so what to do? Is there a way to change this lack of behavior?
The State thinks there is, and thanks to HB 1528 is doing something.
Since everything from grocery shopping to real estate news is online these days, the State is implementing online Voter Registration, as of January first. (Because obviously filling out the mail-in form, available in 8 languages, was such a hardship.) I believe you will be able to go to the Secretary of State's website for the actual online registration. Or at least a link.
Alright, time for me to stop being such a sarcastic person and look for The silver lining and Opportunity.
...Perhaps I can help out and volunteer to join a door-to-door Voter Registration sweep. Maybe that is something my local REALTORS Association could take up as a community service project. Maybe the other 4 or 5 active Community Service groups would want to do that too.
What do you think?
Anyway keep your fingers crossed for success of the two school levies! (Say NO to 9 year old computers!)
Oh- and don't forget that we are also voting on a PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY that day.
That is February 19th.
In like a month & a half.
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Sarah, you've hit a pet peeve of mine...non voters. It's amazing to me the apathy when it comes to making a difference in your community and nation. I think it's a shame to not use our God given right to vote. People have died for us to have that freedom.
The last time I checked we still a government "by the people". I'm a firm believer that if you don't vote, you can't complain.
Great post, Sarah!