One excuse often quipped for the apathy toward voting is that “my vote doesn’t count.” Well, for those who meet the criteria to cast a ballot Nov. 6, there is no excuse.

The primary election Aug. 7 proved voting matters.

A recount in the Cass County commissioner race after the election revealed Bob Wagel won the District 1 seat by five votes, not two.

In Keeler Township, Matthew Sexton and Barb Fisher tied for treasurer with 344 votes each. The tie was resolved by pulling a name from a basket.

The primary had close mill proposals and renewals as well. The Ontwa Township-Edwardsburg Police Department renewal passed, 613 votes to 466.

These are just a few examples; most local elections were relatively close, especially with the extremely low voter turnout in this area.

If you know you won’t be able to vote Nov. 6, or want the convenience of voting earlier, you must submit an application for an absentee ballot by Oct. 30. They can also be obtained in-person anytime through Nov. 1. Even emergency absentee ballots are available under certain conditions through 4 p.m. election day.

There’s plenty of time left to register. The deadline for standard voting registration is Oct. 4.

Next time you feel fed up with your local government, remember you have the ability to change it. Register and make a difference.

This editorial represents the views of the editorial board.