Voting seems to be one of the most convenient inconveniences. Ballots arrive at your home, and polling locations are only minutes away. Elections don’t happen often, but when they do, they count. And it counts most powerfully in local elections. It requires intention; you have to make time to do it.

Each day, we drive down roads, flush toilets, turn on lights, throw things in the trash, and enjoy parks — all made possible by the work of local communities. Voting is how we shape those communities. It’s a duty and a gift. An opportunity to help write the story of where we’re headed. In a democracy, this ballot represents a voice, a vision, and a belief in the power of community.

The best public servants don’t say what’s popular; they say what’s true. They don’t share half-truths for personal gain; they help you see the whole picture. They make incredibly difficult decisions and share the reasons behind them. Stewardship over showmanship. A good leader treats public resources as a sacred trust, not a personal stage. They understand every dollar must return value to the people. Leadership built on fiscal restraint without vision starves longevity, and vision without restraint risks waste.

Good stewards balance these critical elements. We must fight for truth over tactics. Integrity is not negotiable. Good leaders tell the truth, even when it’s inconvenient. They don’t rely on half-truths or fear to win support. They help people see the whole picture. They don’t distort data or discredit others to appear good. They know that trust costs more to rebuild than any public project ever will. The measure of a leader’s truth is in their consistency when no one is watching.

Good leaders choose courage over comfort. They are not always the loudest, but they are the bravest. They stand firm when doing the right thing is unpopular. They stand in the gap against mob pressure and short-term outrage. They face criticism, listen with humility, and still make decisions that are in the best interest of the people. They do their best and listen to others. They open themselves to other perspectives. Leadership is not about avoiding storms; rather, it is about steering through them with clarity, fortitude, and resolve.

Utah County is a truly special place. It’s home to strong families, innovative thinkers, and people who care deeply about their neighbors. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how our communities come together, not just to solve challenges, but to celebrate progress and support one another. We’re blessed to live in a county filled with great leaders and wonderful opportunities for growth, unity, and shared purpose. In our most challenging moments, I have seen the leaders of this region rally together to overcome obstacles for the benefit of their neighbors, families, and communities- and for the benefit of mine and yours.

My time in public service has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Serving as Vineyard’s mayor has allowed me to witness the transformation of our community from a small town to one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic cities in the state. Working alongside residents, city staff, and leaders from across Utah has been an experience that will stay with me forever. I have grown significantly, and we have accomplished incredible things together.

The relationships built over these years are reminders of what can happen when people come together to give back to their community, serve their fellow men, and build something bigger than themselves. Those we elect into office carry a special responsibility. It is their duty to listen, to serve, and to represent the people who put their trust in them. I have never taken that trust lightly. It has been a profound privilege to serve, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to have played a small part in shaping Vineyard’s future.

As you prepare to cast your ballot, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on the kind of communities we want to continue building. Places where families feel safe and connected, where neighbors look out for one another, and where leaders are guided by integrity and dedication. If you haven’t called and heard from those running, reach out, learn about who is helping you shape the future.

Your vote matters. It shapes the policies, priorities, and possibilities for generations to come. Let’s make voting our top priority. Let’s continue to value leaders who are committed to the hard work of community, who believe that Vineyard, Utah County, and the state should always be a place where people come together to grow, to serve, and to build a future we can all be proud to call home.

Julie Fullmer is the mayor of Vineyard.