This week’s Northern Express — sister publication of The Ticker — is the Election Issue. Local officials in charge of elections in the City of Traverse City and Grand Traverse County share their take on how elections are run and what voters can do if they have concerns.

“Elections are infrequent enough that it’s tricky for the average person to commit to memory the rules and systems in place to ensure our elections are free and fair,” says City Clerk Sarah Lutz. “We get lots of questions about early and absentee voting, election inspectors, mail-in voting deadlines, etc., and we encourage voters to contact us directly and we’ll walk them through it.”

“These are people in the community who are accountable to you,” County Clerk Samuel Gedman adds. “If you want to see how elections work, talk to your city, township, or county clerk. Your involvement is encouraged. And we always, always need precinct inspectors. We’re happy to answer questions and dispel myths, because we are local and accountable to you. Just give us a call or stop by.”

Read more here.

Pick up a free copy of this week’s Northern Express, available to read online or at one of nearly 650 spots in 13 counties across northern Michigan.