Less than 20 percent of registered voters in took part in the Troup County November 2017 election.

That election determined the mayoral and city council races in LaGrange, Hogansville and West Point, and the renewal of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax.

A common excuse for not voting is that people are busy on election day. Yet, early voting exists so that even the busiest of people can take five minutes out of their schedules and cast their decisions.

The numbers from last year’s election include early voting, however, this is still a discouraging statistic for turnout. 

Election day is May 22 and there are several important races on the ballot, including chairman of the Troup County Commission and seats on the Troup County School Board.

The school board this year has voted on gyms and building a new elementary school, and dealt with school issues, such as campus security and mold. Residents with children in the public-school system should exercise their right to vote since anyone elected will have a say in the system’s future.

Those especially in non-incorporated parts of the county should vote to have their voices heard.

Early voting begins Monday at the Troup County Government Center and those registered can fill out their ballot in between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Early voting ends May 18. Early voting will also be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 12.

If you can’t make it to your polling place on May 22, consider early voting.