Last November, I walked into my polling location to find poll workers outnumbering voters in a nearly empty gym. This all-too-familiar scene during Lowell’s local elections prompted me to wonder: how can we reconnect our community with the democratic process that shapes our daily lives?

For nearly 14 years at the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, I’ve witnessed firsthand how municipal decisions directly impact our businesses, schools and neighborhoods. When the City Council approves budget allocations or the School Committee decides funding for special education and mental health services, these actions affect our community more tangibly than many national policies ever will.

The numbers tell a troubling story. While presidential elections drive higher participation, Lowell’s 2023 city election saw fewer than 7,600 of our approximately 75,300 registered voters cast ballots. This means critical decisions about education, public safety and economic development were shaped by just 10% of eligible voters, while the vast majority remained silent.

As a mother of three, I see each empty polling booth as a missed opportunity to influence where our children learn and grow. When I vote locally, I’m not thinking about partisan politics — I’m thinking about my children’s playgrounds, their classroom resources and the opportunities they’ll have growing up in Lowell.

Ironically, local elections are where individual votes carry the most weight. A single vote can determine who makes decisions about your neighborhood’s future. Yet barriers persist: lack of candidate information, confusion about polling locations, skepticism about impact and busy schedules keep many away. These challenges, however, can be overcome. News sources like InsideLowell provide candidate coverage, the City Election Department can confirm your polling location and early voting options make participation more convenient than ever.

I promise your vote matters. Throughout my years working with city officials, I’ve seen local representatives respond directly to engaged citizens. Unlike Washington, you can call City Hall and speak with the actual decision-makers affecting your life.

Each election day, my children join me at the polls. Though too young to vote, they’re learning the importance of civic participation. They watch me greet neighbors, carefully mark my ballot and wear my “I Voted” sticker proudly — a simple ritual demonstrating that in our democracy, showing up truly matters.

Whether your priority is education, economic development or public safety, your ballot is your voice in shaping Lowell’s future. On November 4, 2025, please join me in exercising this fundamental right — because in local government, showing up isn’t just important, it’s essential.