The Baker County Clerk's office will mail around 13,000 ballots to registered voters for the Nov. 5, 2024, election.

Every election is consequential. But a ballot that’s not returned is a ballot wasted. And an opportunity.

If you’re a registered voter, you should receive a ballot this week for the May 21 election.

If not, contact the county clerk’s office. The phone number is 541-523- 8207, and the office is in the Courthouse, 1995 Third St. in Baker City.

This election has several matters that will have significant effects on the county’s future.

Depending on where you live, you’ll have a chance to weigh in property tax levies, and, if you’re a registered Republican or Democrat, who will represent you as a precinct committeeperson.

All county voters will have the county commissioner race on the ballot, with Michelle Kaseberg and Curtis Martin vying to replace Bruce Nichols, who is not seeking reelection.

For Baker City voters, the ballot includes Measure 1-126. That’s a request from the city council for a five-year property tax increase, with the money to be used in the police and fire departments.

The ballot also includes tax levy renewals to control mosquitoes in parts of the county, as well as noxious weeds.

The Haines and Baker Rural fire protection districts are seeking tax increases to support their departments.

And voters in the Pine and Eagle valleys will decide whether to boost their property taxes for improvements in the Pine Eagle School District, including building a new gym at Pine Eagle Elementary.

Each of these measures, and races, is important.

But putting them on a ballot is only the first step.

The next, and crucial, task lies with the voters.