Today's the day: Get out and vote

Weeks of campaigning come to a close today, as Mat-Su Borough residents have an opportunity to vote on some $40 million in bonds for two new elementary schools and repairs to two other existing schools.

It's the second time around for this ballot question. Voters rejected the bonds during the October election, but the urgency of overcrowding and the lack of any viable alternative to accommodate the continued influx of students forced the issue to another vote just a few months after it first appeared before voters.

The new vote has not been without its share of controversy. Some in the borough thought it inappropriate that the question go to ballot again so soon after it was originally rejected. Citing the cost of a special election, they advocated for the question's placement on the ballot during the regularly scheduled borough election coming up in the fall.

The maneuvering over the issue put members of the borough assembly, administration and legislative delegation at odds. The dust from that controversy may have settled, but the overall contentiousness of the issue threatens to linger beyond the results of today's vote.

The efforts of groups on both sides of the question, as they engaged in last-minute jockeying for the informational upper hand, have left a feeling of distrust and conspiracy hanging over the proceedings. That's unfortunate, considering the common interest each of us has in a decent quality of life in our community.

Still, difference of opinion remains a cornerstone of the democratic process. And voters, as always, will have the last word on the issue.

We urge all borough voters to be a part in determining the course of history in the Valley by letting their voices be heard today. And whatever the outcome, we hope that all players will move forward respectfully and in the spirit of community after all the votes have been counted.