While, at first glance, this year’s election may seem smaller, with no federal, state or countywide offices up, it will still be an important chance for voters to determine leadership in their communities.

Ironton will have its mayoral race, along with the villages of South Point, Chesapeake, Athalia, Hanging Rock and Coal Grove, while numerous township and trustee races will be on the ballot.

Voters will also be asked to decide on several levies, including the funding of Lawrence County Developmental Disabilities services.

We encourage everyone to vote in this year’s election, and to seek out information and cast an informed vote.

Groups such as the Concerned Citizens of Burlington will host candidate forums and we at the Ironton Tribune are planning events of our own.

We hope to host multiple forums in October, giving voters the chance to hear from candidates from races across the county. In addition, we will publish our annual voter guide in October.

What are your top issues you would like us to focus on? What questions do you have for the candidates.

Please contact us at briefs@irontontribune.com or via our Facebook page to share your thoughts.

We value the input of our readers and would like your thoughts in shaping our coverage of this fall’s races.