The 12 Utah County cities holding primary elections today have one thing in common -- three. Each of those cities has three city council seats up for grabs this year, though voters in Mapleton will only be casting primary votes in the race for mayor.

Voters will whittle down the primary lists to two candidates for each open seat.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. today in Eagle Mountain, Elk Ridge, Highland, Lehi, Mapleton, Orem, Payson, Pleasant Grove, Provo, Springville and Spanish Fork. Utah County residents who live in Draper must vote by mail, and should have received a ballot by mail. Woodland Hills originally had a primary scheduled, but it's no longer necessary because candidates have dropped out of the races.

If you're not registered to vote, it is too late for today's election. However, it's not too late for the general election in November. Registration forms must be postmarked at least 30 days before the election, according to the state elections Web site.

You may also register in person at a satellite registration site or at the county clerk's office on the 15th and 18th day before the election. Voter registration never expires, unless you move or change your name or political party.

For a list of candidates (for most cities, the list isn't complete), your polling location or more voter information, visit elections.utah.gov, or call your city recorder's office.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page A1.