Resident urges La Plata to boost election information after low turnout in recent races

Resident Becca (Rebecca) Turner told the Town Council on March 18 that voter participation in recent elections has been very low and urged the town to increase election information and signage to raise turnout ahead of the May 6 general election.

Turner, who identified herself as a La Plata resident during the public-comment portion of the meeting, said the primary drew fewer than 200 voters and the last general election fewer than 600. She said the town’s website includes links and deadlines but urged equal space for each candidate on the town site and more visible public signage so voters see dates and hours while they drive or shop.

"We would like to see signage provided by the town with voting dates and times visible to people as they drive, work and shop here," Turner said. She added that volunteers are willing to help distribute information but asked the town government to use its role in conducting the nonpartisan election to promote civic participation without political endorsement.

Mayor James acknowledged the comment during the meeting and the council noted the May 6 general election hours, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and thanked residents who ran in the primary. The council did not take formal action on Turner’s suggestions at the March 18 meeting; staff or council members may follow up as the election approaches.

Ending: Town election information and the council’s outreach plans were not decided during the meeting; Turner said local volunteers are willing to assist with voter-engagement efforts.