According to the estimated population of Sherburne County for 2022, around 41% of county residents live in townships. Those living in townships will have an excellent opportunity to voice their opinions on local government in the near future, an opportunity those living in cities will not have.

Every year, each township has their annual meeting. During this meeting, the elected township supervisors have no more sway in the meeting than any other resident of the community. It is a meeting of the electorate, meaning that anyone living in the township over the age of 18 has power equal to any of the township supervisors during that meeting. Residents vote directly on the most important issue to many: the tax levy. Residents in attendance may also raise their concerns over other issues, as, again, it is their meeting to run.

This is an amazing opportunity for township residents. How often does a taxpayer get to run their local government meeting? Usually, they would have to run for office first. 

I suggest that township residents take advantage of this opportunity. Township day is March 14, but it would be a great idea to attend a couple of the regular meetings before attending the annual meeting. Gather information on the normal business of your township, then go in to the annual meeting prepared with information on the issues your township faces each month. Who knows? Your voice very well could be the one that makes a big change in your community.