By: Evelyn Horvat
You’ve probably seen signs put up around town advertising candidates for this year’s City Officials Election. Maybe this brought up some questions like “When is the election?” or “How do I register to vote?” and “Why should I even vote?” Well, I have some answers.
April 2nd, 2024 is election day! So, what positions are up for election? The Municipal Court Judge, First, Second, and Third District Alderperson, and of course The Mayor of Delavan. What do each of these positions do?
Let’s start with the Municipal Court Judge.
The Municipal Court Judge oversees and decides cases that deal with traffic offenses, misdemeanors, and family law disputes. They preside over court hearings, direct the staff, and deal with deferred adjudication processing; which means they deal with postponed formal judgments, with no convictions of those involved. They conduct legal research, prepare agreements, and issue warrants. They also serve as a strong advocate for social service agencies.
Next up: The Alderpeople.
An alderperson is someone who is an elected member of a municipal council. But what do they do? They attend meetings, make policy decisions, pass resolutions, pass the annual city budget, approve licenses and permits, and work with constituents to answer questions and complaints. There are 2 Alderpeople per district in Delavan and they are the people that you go to in your district when you have questions, complaints, comments, or concerns about what is going on there.
Then, of course, there’s the Mayor.
The mayor oversees the city’s main departments such as the police, fire, education, and housing departments. This position works with municipal officials and other leaders to oversee day-to-day operations of the local government. The mayor also serves on the city council serving as the leadership postion in meetings. They are elected based on who residents of the town trust most with making important decisions that will affect them.
So, Why should you vote?
There are many reasons why you should! The people that we vote for and get elected are the people who will be making very important decisions that will affect the city we live in and how we live in it. I was able to talk with Andrea White, the Delavan City Clerk, and she says, “If you choose not to vote, you are letting other people, who may not share your interests, make decisions for you.” Taking the time to look at who the candidates are and what you agree and disagree with is very important. And if you find someone you agree with but still choose not to vote then other people are making the decision for you and you may not be happy with the results.
How should you go about registering to vote?
If you are 18+ by election day, the easiest way is to go to the My Vote website. Simply enter your info in and If the address on record with the DMV is correct, they will confirm the address and you’re good to go! You’ll just have to show a photo ID on election day and you’ll get a ballot. You could also register in person at the CIty Clerk’s office, Monday-Friday from 8 A.M.-4:30 P.M.
If you are unable or unwilling to show up in person to vote, you can request to vote an absentee ballot. As long as you are 18+ by election day and are registered to vote, you can request an absentee through the same My Vote website or you can make a written request to the City Clerk. Completed absentee ballots are due by 8 P.M. on election day.
The Candidates:
Municipal Court Judge: Mike Rhyner
First District Alderperson: Alondra Barbosa
Second District Alderperson: Matt Bieser
Third District Alderperson: Paul Wilson
Mayor: Ryan Schroeder and Grace Hirte
Election Day is April 2nd, 2024 at the Municipal Building at 123 South Second Street.
Polls open at 7 A.M. and close by 8 P.M.
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