Tuesday, November 3rd is election day in many municipalities around the state of Indiana, including Fishers.  The Indianapolis Star and the Indianapolis Business Journal have featured stories of late about the apparent apathy among the electorate in the southern Hamilton County suburban cities.  The mayors all are safe in their jobs for new 4-year terms.  Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness had no opponent in the GOP primary last May and is unopposed in the general election.

We have only one contested election in Fishers this time around.  There is one Democrat, Greg Purvis, challenging the three at-large city council incumbent Republicans…Todd Zimmerman, Rich Block and Cecilia Coble.  When it was finalized that Purvis’ candidacy would require a general election in all of Fishers, I heard a few grumblings around town about how the city would have to shoulder the expense of an election due to the filing of just one candidate in Purvis.

I disagree with that view.  Having at least one contest in the general election gives local voters an opportunity to choose a different candidate.  Democrats have not done well in Fishers elections, which may account for the party’s lack of candidates.  But allowing voters a choice is the right thing to do.  If Purvis draws enough votes, there could be more Democrats running for office in Fishers four years from now.  If Purvis’ showing is not encouraging, Democrats will be hard-pressed to find candidates next time around.

You do have a choice on November 3rd.  It just takes a few minutes in most cases to cast your ballot.  If you are a registered voter and live in Fishers, there are no excuses.  Vote!