Election Day, November 7, rapidly approaches. 

With the availability of the early voting period, October 28 through November 5, less than two weeks away, I would like to remind every eligible voter how important your one vote is. Your individual vote, whether it be for a candidate for office or a proposition on the ballot, matters in every election.

It is even more critical for local elections in years when there are no, or very limited, state or national races. 

This year is one of those years. Historically in these “off election years,” voter participation, or turnout, is very low.

I have heard people say “My vote wouldn’t have made a difference,” or “It’s only one vote and it wouldn’t have changed the outcome of the election!” These “reasons” could not be farther from the truth.

There have been elections decided by very narrow margins, especially in local government races. So take it from me, your vote matters! It may very well decide who your next village mayor, town supervisor or county legislator is.

All of us, as citizens of this great nation, have had bestowed upon us the inalienable right to vote.

The right to vote for the candidate of one’s own choice.

Sure, you will be asked and encouraged to cast your ballot for opposing candidates. But it will be you and only you, the voter, who has the ability to exercise your right to vote for whomever you choose.

Please don’t forfeit that right by not voting.

Please make every vote count.

Thomas R. Bose serves as the Town of Callicoon Supervisor and is a farmer and resident of Youngsville, NY.