**Guide to Suburban Elections: Everything You Need to Know**
It’s that time again! The 2024 election cycle may have just ended, but the state of Illinois is gearing up for another round of voting in the coming months. Municipalities and townships across the state will soon head back to the voting booth for a series of local elections that will have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of residents.
**Dates of Upcoming Elections**
Primary elections to determine final candidates for the consolidated ballots will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 25. The consolidated election, where many communities will vote on key leadership positions, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 1.
**Offices on the Ballots**
Unlike even-year elections that focus on state and federal government races, this year’s elections will center on local units of government. This includes cities, villages, townships, library districts, school board districts, and sanitation districts. Some communities will even feature referendums and advisory questions on the ballots to allow residents to voice their opinions on issues affecting their towns.
**Biggest Suburbs Voting**
While Chicago won’t be holding municipal elections, other major communities in the area will be participating. Cities like Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Elgin, and Waukegan will all have a say in selecting their local leaders.
**Early Voting Information**
Early voting will be available for two weeks leading up to the primary and consolidated elections. In suburban Cook County, early voting kicks off on Feb. 10 for the primary and March 17 for the general election. Mail-in ballots are also on the way, with mail-in voting starting this week for the primary election. For full details, check your local county clerk’s office website.
**Finding Ballot Information**
Most communities will have limited primaries, and candidate lists are being finalized. For more information on what will be on your ballot, visit your local county clerk’s office website. Here are some links to get you started:
– Cook County
– DeKalb County
– DuPage County
– Grundy County
– Kane County
– Kankakee County
– Kendall County
– Lake County
– LaSalle County
– McHenry County
– Will County
As you prepare to cast your vote in the upcoming elections, remember that your voice matters. Stay informed, get involved, and make your mark on your community’s future!
