Get out and vote

Today is an election day and all Eastern Jackson County residents have at least one issue on the ballot.

Jackson County voters decide today whether to extend the quarter-center sales tax dedicated to COMBAT for another seven years. The measure funds about $19.5 million in anti-drug measures ranging from extra police offers to DARE and drug court rehabilitation. A simple majority is necessary.

If you live in Independence, you have another important issue on the ballot – an $85 million bond for the Independence School District. The measure would increase property taxes 15 cents per $100 of assessed valuation for people living in the district, but it would save the district millions in new zero percent loans and finance two new elementary schools, as well as renovations at every other school in the district.

The Examiner has endorsed both issues and encourages yes votes because each benefits the community. But whether you are for or against, exercise your right and vote.

The Jackson County Election Board has consolidated a few polling places, so each registered voter should check before heading to the polls to make sure they are headed to the right place.

The polls close at 7 p.m.