Local elections

Many of us still are recovering from the 2012 presidential election, and all of the mudslinging that came with it.

And while a lot of attention has been given -- and rightfully so -- to the special election in June to replace JoAnn Emerson in Congress, it's important not to lose sight of the local elections coming April 2.

Filing deadline has come and gone for the April election, and there are many people seeking seats on school boards, city councils and fire boards.

These boards, commissions and councils touch us in a personal way. These officials decide how our children's schools are run, what upgrades that our cities and towns see and how our homes are protected. They're important.

In Bollinger, Perry, Scott and Stoddard counties, a use tax will be put to voters to determine if out-of-state purchases will be taxed locally, an attempt advocates say will put local businesses, particularly car dealerships, on a level playing field with out-of-state competitors.

Between now and April, you'll see more coverage of these topics and races in the Southeast Missourian. You always can check out our coverage at www.semissourian.com/elections.

We commend those who are running for local office. These are time-consuming posts that receive too little appreciation.

We also encourage everyone to become informed before the April election arrives.