Marie GreeneWhen people think about elections, they often picture presidential debates and national headlines. But the decisions that most directly affect your daily life happen much closer to home.
If you drink water from the tap, step onto a sidewalk, call 911, visit a city park, or check out a book from the library, you’re relying on services funded and overseen by city government, which includes our mayor and city councilors. Local leadership determines how well those systems function, and how they evolve to meet new challenges.
In May, Salem voters will elect a new mayor and several city councilors. Local elections like this one will shape the streets you drive on, the safety resources available in an emergency, the health of neighborhood parks, and the vitality of local businesses.
When asked about the mayor’s role*, City Councilor (and mayoral challenger) Vanessa Nordyke describes it as that of “convener and communicator.” She says the mayor should work with stakeholders to help the city thrive, communicate clearly about efforts to address Salem’s biggest challenges, and invite residents of all backgrounds to be part of the solution. City government, she notes, plays a key role in helping residents feel safe and welcome, and in creating conditions that encourage businesses to open and grow here.
The mayor works alongside the City Council and City Manager to set priorities, represent Salem publicly, and help guide long-term planning. From housing and public safety to infrastructure and economic development, these decisions shape our shared future.
Local elections have a much lower turnout than national races. That means each vote carries even more weight. When fewer people participate, a small number of ballots can determine the direction of the entire city. Your vote matters.
If you’ve ever wished something were different — smoother roads, safer neighborhoods, stronger local businesses, more vibrant public spaces — voting is one of the most direct ways to influence that change.
Before Election Day (May 19), take a few minutes to confirm you’re registered, learn about the candidates, and make a plan to vote. Important: Recent national legislation** has changed how postmark dates are processed, so drop your ballot off at least three to four days before the voting deadline. The future of Salem isn’t decided in Washington, D.C. It’s decided right here, by those of us who vote.
This story originally ran in Press Play Salem issue 27 (Spring 2026)
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*Mayor Julie Hoy did not respond to our February 9 email request for comment for this story.
Carlee Wright
