Let’s all turn out for RR elections

If we’re not careful, politics could overwhelm our lives right now.

Locally, enough political activities are occurring that we have to work to keep up with them. Decisions made at the Roundhouse during this 30-day legislative session are critical.

We just had to vote on issues facing Albuquerque schools and CNM. In less than a month, Rio Rancho residents have to decide on a bond issue for increased taxes for roads, whom to choose as three city councilors and changes to the City Charter.

Then, nationally, we are inundated with constant reports of the Iowa caucuses last Monday, the New Hampshire primary this coming Tuesday, multiple primaries to come, coupled with all the regular political news and activities of Congress and the president.

Sometimes we want to say, “Enough already,” but we can’t because the decisions made by our elected officials and the decisions we can affect through our votes are too important. We need to understand what’s going on, how our votes affect our future and the community’s future, and what decisions our representatives are making — even if our heads are spinning and we feel overwhelmed by all that’s going on

So, we want to thank somebody for the distractions that are coming up that will give us all a break from the malaise caused by too much politics.

On Sunday, we have the Super Bowl, an event where we get three distractions for the price of one — we have an excuse for a party, a great football game and the best commercials ever. And we have a day with no politics. Then, we have Mardi Gras celebrations Tuesday that precede Ash Wednesday. And, finally, next Sunday is Valentine’s Day, another excuse for an evening free of politics, while at the same time having fun with your sweetheart.

Take advantage of this week’s distractions, don’t stress too much about politics or world problems. Enjoy the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day — because the distractions will soon end and we have to go back to being responsible citizens.

Rio Rancho residents especially should enjoy this brief respite because the city election is coming quickly and the decisions we make when we vote will impact the city’s future, as well as our own pocketbooks.

Our roads are in terrible condition and the city is asking us to approve GO bonds to pay for road improvements. The tax increase is much less than the one that was just approved for CNM and will begin to upgrade our failing roads. We will also be asked to approve changes to the City Charter and will be electing three city councilors. We need to study the issues to make wise decisions.

We will discuss the issues facing Rio Rancho residents in more detail in the next few weeks, providing more details. Let us know if you have any specific questions or need more information. We’ll do our best to help.

In the meantime, read everything you can, listen to folks as they discuss the issues, go to any forums. Learn everything you can. Most importantly, vote and vote wisely. It’s our time to turn the tide of ridiculously low turnouts in city elections. Maybe we can overwhelm the voting sites with a huge influx of voters. Sounds like a good goal for the city.