Voting for Local Candidates Matters

Election day is less than a month away and many of us are thinking about mid-terms and what the results mean for our country, as we should be.

But the other day I had an experience which reminded me that we need to pay attention to our local candidates too, because they can directly impact our daily lives. Through a friend, I met a man named David Thornley. Upon chatting with him, I learned that he is the current zoning imspector for Exeter. Honestly, we are new in town and I never even gave much thought to what a zoning inspector does. But as I listened, I learned that Dave's job is to help people understand the zoning laws. It became clear that a zoning inspector and all the other local people in public office must be fair and knowledgable. I learned that the job comes with not being able to please everyone all the time, and impartial judgement are the keys to success.

I asked Dave if it was a "Thankless Job". He said it was, sometimes. But he explained that this is his hometown and he wants to make a positive difference for people. I was so impressed by this humble man's integrity. I wish I had the chance to speak to some others running for local office to learn if they have the same attitude as a public servant as Dave.As I started this, I was thinking how important it is not to drive by the election signs, but maybe meet one or two people behind the signs if you can.