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Gainesville Sun: Kim A. Barton: Become more civically engaged in 2018

Special to The Gainesville Sun

The New Year is here, and with it comes the time-honored tradition of making resolutions.

Whether you’re hoping to lose a few pounds, learn a new skill or spend more time with your family, I challenge you to consider taking on another new challenge: becoming more civically engaged in 2018.

Our communities are better when we’re all positively contributing. This year, commit to spending an hour a week volunteering, or pledge to join a non-profit’s board. Offer your time to your church or faith group’s community efforts. Find a way to give back in a positive way.

And remember that 2018, just like every other even-numbered year, is an election year. In addition to the regular annual municipal elections, there will be two elections.

The primary election and general election will be held on Aug. 28 and Nov. 6, respectively. It will be a crowded ballot: Among other things, Florida voters will choose a new governor, decide a U.S. Senate election and consider changes to Florida’s constitution brought forth by the Florida Constitution Revision Commission. Local initiatives will be considered as well.

Regardless of your political affiliation, I urge you to play a part in the electoral process. Voting is the first step. Take the time to become familiar with the candidates and issues, and urge your family and friends to do the same. We’re fortunate to live in a place where one does not need to look far to find groups of engaged and knowledgeable people.

Beyond the fundamental act of becoming an informed voter, you can take your participation to the next level by becoming a poll worker. There are more than 170,000 registered voters — spread across 63 voting precincts — in Alachua County. Finding enough engaged and committed individuals willing to work Election Day is always a challenge.

Poll workers, who are paid for their service, are essential to the elections process. They serve as the guardians of democracy on Election Day, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the process for all voters.

My office will host two open house orientations on the first floor of the Josiah T. Walls Building, located in Gainesville at 515 North Main Street, for people interested in becoming poll workers. The first will be Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to noon, and the second will be Thursday, Jan. 18, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Members of the Vote Alachua team will provide more insight on poll worker responsibilities, as well as demonstrate voting equipment. To RSVP, email Yvette Carreras at ycarreras@alachuacounty.us.