With a special election for alderman, Ward 4 residents will havethe opportunity Tuesday to help shape the future of their part ofthe city and the rest of Homeseeker’s Paradise.

Four candidates are seeking the post left open by the death ofDon Estes in September. Each candidate has unique attributes andabilities that he or she can bring to the city board room.

We hope voters have taken the time to review each candidate’sstrengths and weaknesses and will based their decisions on thatresearch. Candidates’ responses to several survey questions arepublished in today’s newspaper to help further inform voters.

The winner of the special election, whether victory is claimedTuesday or Oct. 19 if a runoff is needed, will be in office lessthan one year before next year’s regularly scheduled cityelections.

However, in the interim, the city faces some important decisionson issues such as an infrastructure financing plan for a new HomeDepot, new industrial park development, the multi-modaltransportation facility and other projects.

It’s vital that the city’s largest ward have a capable voice inthe decision-making process. We encourage Ward Four residents tomake their decisions wisely when casting their ballots Tuesday.