While the election is non-compulsory it is arguably one of the most important elections conducted.

This is why the election becomes a priority in our newsroom.

Firstly, we consider our readership to be a minimum of nine councils.

Of course, the results of all 29 councils (or for this year 28 because Glenorchy had an early election) are important, but at The Examiner we pride ourselves on delivering news that you can’t get anywhere else.

Secondly, whether you like it or not, local government is more than rates, rubbish and roads.

Those three issues alone are important, however, the councils play a role in state and federal politics.

They are at grassroots. Elected councillors or aldermen represent ratepayers directly and have the ability to campaign heavily on our behalf.

Councils also have a mission to improve their region. This is why it is more than the three Rs. It’s also about attracting and supporting events and developments that will add value to our regions.

The environment, recreation, tourism and preparing for the future are all expectations of a council.

This is why the local government elections are so very important.

It’s, also, why here at The Examiner we are stressing the importance of participating in this election.

We’ve received many comments about how difficult it is to choose candidates from such a large field. 

This is understandable.

It’s why we have tried our best to collect statements from every candidate and publish them all both online and in print.

Yes, these statements are short. But, hopefully, it will help to give you an insight into the candidates and allow for some solid follow up questions.

At the very least, we hope it will help you to make an informed decision and encourage you to participate in this important election.