Will You Make a Difference this Year?

Amidst the spectacle of today’s national politics, it is important to remember that there is, in fact, an election this November.  A very important election in the history of Boulder.  And you had better be thinking about it soon.
 

This year’s election in Boulder County is entirely by mail.  The Boulder County Clerk and Recorder will mail ballots to all eligible voters. If you did not get a ballot and you believe you are registered, contact the Clerk's office at 303-413-7740, you may still be allowed to vote if you contact the Clerk & Recorders office prior to Election Day.
 

Why do we care?  The Boulder business community is an integral part of our community.  The Boulder Chamber and the member organizations we represent, are a reflection of the values of our community.  The Boulder Chamber is by and for the Boulder business community, not affiliated in any way with the US Chamber.  We have signed on to 350.org – The US Chamber of Commerce Does Not Speak for Me campaign.  In fact, we are founding members of Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy.  This is a nonpartisan national network of local chambers of commerce dedicated to accelerating the nation’s leadership in clean energy, innovation and economic prosperity.  We even serve on their board of advisors.
 

Effective public education is one of key policy priorities – and we walk the talk.  We are one of only two business organization in the state supporting Proposition 103 which would restore sales and income taxes to 1999 levels with the proceeds going toward education in the state.  We hold an annual business leadership forum highlighting the importance of business support for public education.  Last month we are hosted a session on the critical role of early childhood education.
 

Another of our key strategic priorities to create a strong local economy is to champion a Get Out The Vote campaign for the November 2011 Election and encourage full community participation in local elections.  It is by hearing from all in our community that democracy is truly served. 
 

And for a highly educated community, we have a surprising low voter turnout.  Only 18,535 or 28.8% of eligible voters participated in the 2009 election.  Those that didn’t vote may just think that things will continue to be to their liking even if they don’t weigh in.  You cannot count on it.  Just as you wouldn’t let someone decide what house you want to buy, don’t sit out an election.  Act now, vote. It’s your community – make sure you weigh in.

Susan Morris Graf is President and CEO of the Boulder Chamber and a thirty year resident of Boulder.