Throughout the day, public elections are being conducted across St. Louis County. Registered U.S. citizens 18 or older have the opportunity to vote on community-based issues between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. today at locally assigned polling places.

The one issue holding most relevant to Pattonville in this election is Proposition P, a plan in which taxes increase across the school district to support Pattonville in areas relating to education, transportation and school-sponsored activities.

“It’s a proposal to raise Pattonville’s property tax, which pays for salaries, books and equipment,” said government teacher Ryan Brueckmann. “It’ll help Pattonville avoid making budget cuts.”

Unlike some elections in November, there is not a wide range of political candidates or proposals to vote on. With the presidential race between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney taking place last year and the midterm election set for 2014, there will be fewer options for potential voters.

“[Voter turnout] will be pretty low because there is nothing else to vote on,” Brueckmann mentioned. “People not acquainted with the school probably aren’t going to come out and vote for only one issue.”

Although public elections may not draw much attention, the results can have a major impact on the community. Students recognize several benefits that come from voting and how Proposition P can affect Pattonville in the near future.

“From what I see, Proposition P will allow the school to continue running as it is without any financial impact on students or teachers,” said senior Alex Breakfield.

Pattonville seniors were eligible to cast a vote on Proposition P as long as they registered before Oct. 9 and turned 18 before Election Day. Some students may choose to participate in elections based on factors such as family influence or political knowledge.

“I want to vote because it is my civic duty and I am voting in an underrepresented voter group,” Breakfield said. “I like the fact that teenagers can vote, but many do not.”