Kudos for being aware of your local general election since voter turnout last May was abysmal. In Pearland, only 4.32 percent of registered voters—2,744 residents—cast their ballots for three city council seats, three school trustee positions and three Alvin Community College regents. In Friendswood, only nine percent of voters—2,422 residents—cast their ballots for two city council seats and two sales tax increases.

Although the November presidential elections that we cycle through every four years gets all the glory, local elections are, dare I say, more important. Your local officials directly affect your pocketbook, daily commute, appraisal values and quality of life.

Pearland is getting a seventh city council seat in an effort to diversify its representation. In total, residents will vote on three contested council seats, a mayoral race and two contested Pearland ISD trustee seats.

Friendswood residents vote on two city council seats this cycle. The sole incumbent, John Scott, is running against Planning & Zoning Chairman David O’Farrell.

For the full ballot, check our online election guide here.

If you'd like to have your question answered, send the editor, Nora Olabi, and email with your questions at [email protected].