OTTUMWA — For years, we’ve asked Ottumwans to make a difference in their community.

From programs like “Make Ottumwa Shine” to volunteer efforts with a number of local nonprofit organizations, Ottumwans have always been there to lend a helping hand.

On Tuesday, we once again ask every eligible voter to make his or her voice heard by going to the polls.

This year’s city primary election will help determine the city’s future.

Four mayoral and 13 city council candidates are vying for your support. The top votegetters who emerge from the primary will then move forward to the regular city election in November.

Considering the number of candidates who are seeking office, we should back them up by going to the polls — everyone who is eligible.

Over the years, we haven’t exactly produced high participation numbers. There have been elections in Wapello County where voter turnout only hovered around 10 percent.

Two years ago, there were two seats up for election on the Ottumwa City Council. Only three people took time out to run and voter turnout was relatively light.

Now in 2009, here’s our chance to show that all Ottumwans are fully engaged and that they care about the community.

Show your appreciation for those who are asking to lead the city by turning out in big numbers.

Of course, there are no more excuses as to whether or not you should vote. You can still vote absentee today at the courthouse and the polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

Poll locations this year include:

• Precinct 1: Penn Avenue Free Methodist Church, 820 E. Pennsylvania Ave.

• Precinct 2: North Court Baptist Church, 1411 N. Court St.

• Precinct 3: Great Prairie AEA 15, 2814 N. Court Road