A big one, folks

8/22/2004

EVERY time an election rolls around, somebody notes that "this is the most important election in our lifetimes." A bit of hyperbole maybe. But viewed from a local perspective, this year it may be more than a solemn call to the polls.

America will re-elect a president, or choose a new one, and both Ohio and Lucas County will likely be major players in the outcome.

The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority will seek voter approval of a renewal levy and a new way to spend economic development dollars.

The City wants to renew the 0.75 percent payroll tax surcharge a year early to reallocate more dollars to the general fund.

Toledo Public Schools, soon to move out of academic emergency, will seek a levy renewal.

The debate will be lively over an attempt to repeal the City of Toledo's ban on smoking in public places.

Also, voters will select a U.S. senator, a congressman, state representatives, two Lucas County commissioners, several other county officers, four justices of the Ohio Supreme Court, including the chief justice, and several other judges.

Much is at stake. The most important election of our lifetimes?

If not, it's close.