Get ready to vote!

Election season is here, and it’s time to think beyond just the presidential vote. Informed participation at the state and local levels is equally crucial in shaping our local economy, improving quality of life and ensuring that the needs and perspectives of our community are well-represented. 

The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber is deeply committed to promoting civic engagement. We carefully steward our members' investments by 1) advocating on key issues that impact our businesses, economy, and community, and 2) offering educational opportunities for voters to learn about candidates and issues at the local, state, and national levels. As we approach election day Nov. 5, we encourage all voters to utilize the many available resources to ensure you’re prepared to cast an informed vote. 

Researching candidates and ballot measures 

Voting is more than just casting a ballot; it’s about being informed. Understanding candidates' positions and the issues at stake helps voters make choices that align with their values and the well-being of the community. Informed voters play a key role in advocating for policies that promote local growth and sustainability, supporting the success of our community. 

Through partnerships with Hagadone Media Group, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, Northwest Specialty Hospital and our joint chamber public policy committee, we’ve created resources to help you prepare for this election: 

• North Idaho College Board of Trustees Candidate Forum: Presented by the joint chamber public policy committee, this forum features candidates running for trustee positions on the NIC board. 

• Beyond the Ballot Luncheon: Last week, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane and Kootenai County Clerk Jennifer Locke discussed election practices and demonstrated resources available to voters. Attendees left with renewed confidence in the integrity of Idaho's voting processes. 

• Decoding Proposition 1: Open Primaries and Ranked Choice Voting: On Oct. 8, join us for a breakfast featuring Luke Mayville, advocating for Prop. 1, and Michael Angiletta, presenting the opposing view. This event will help attendees better understand the measure and its implications for future primaries. 

• Public School Supplemental Levies: Coeur d’Alene School District No. 271, Lakeland Joint School District No. 273, and Kootenai Joint School District No. 274 all have supplemental levies on the ballot. The Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber strongly urges voters to vote YES. A strong education system is vital to our region’s businesses, trades, and overall economic prosperity. 

Why your participation matters 

Informed voters are the foundation of effective governance. By using the resources available, you can actively shape policies that impact everything from local infrastructure to education, public safety and economic vitality. Voting is not just a right — it’s your responsibility! 

1. Check your voter registration and polling location: voteidaho.gov 

2. Review your sample ballot: voteidaho.gov

3. Research candidates and measures: 

• NIC Board of Trustee Candidate Forum: www.cdapress.com/meetthecandidates 

• State Legislative, KC Commissioner Seat 3, KC Sheriff Candidate Interviews: COMING SOON at www.cdapress.com/meetthecandidates 

• Oct. 8 Upbeat Breakfast: Decoding Proposition 1, 7 to 8:30 a.m. Register: https://bit.ly/DecodingProp1 

Cast an informed vote!

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Linda Coppess is president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce.

    Coppess