To The Editor:

Did you know that in 2007, the city council of Fort Myers was elected by less than 15 percent of the

registered voters? In Cape Coral, the decision was made by 22 percent of the registered voters.

In other words, the vast majority of voters left it up to a small minority to decide the future

of their local government.

There are many reasons why people don’t vote. In local races, voters often complain that they don’t have enough information about the candidates to make an informed decision. The Lee County League of Women voters has asked each candidate five questions and posted the answers in The Voter’s Guide on our website: www.lwvlee.org.

Candidates were asked for their views on the city budget, about stimulating job growth and what they believe to be the primary challenges facing their city.

The Voter’s Guide also includes information on each candidate’s background.

The League of Women Voters is nonpartisan and never endorses candidates. You will find information in the Voter’s guide that was written directly by the candidates – we do not edit or alter the responses in any way.

Please take the time to become informed and vote in the primaries and the general election November 3.

The old saying, “All politics are local,” is very true. Most of what affects you as a citizen is decided by your elected officials – everything from property taxes, to local services, to laws and ordinances.

We encourage your readers to visit the Lee County Supervisor of Elections’ website before Election Day to double check the location of your precinct – and remember that you can always vote by absentee ballot, even if you will be in the area on Election Day.

The last day to request an absentee ballot is September 9 for the primary and October 28 for the general election.

Early voting is also available. Visit www.leeelections.com.

For more information. Make your voice heard this fall – and vote.

Katrina Brewsaugh

Voter Service Chairman

Clara Anne Graham

President,

Fort Myers