I apologize in advance for the soapbox speech I am about to give. On August 5th you will have an opportunity to participate in the democratic process. This is an opportunity that is not afforded to many of the citizens of this world. Often in America, it is an opportunity lost through laziness or worse yet, apathy. Our right, and civic duty to vote is often taken for granted. It is not unusual to see ten percent of the eligible voters in Southwest Missouri be the voices and decision makers for the entire population. That is ten percent of the eligible voters. In Greene County alone that represents about 18,000 people making the decisions for a population of about 277,000. Does that make you comfortable? This oration is not going to slide into a patriotic call to arms with a battle hymn playing in the background and a flag waving across a dusky blue sky. It is simply a reminder that every single election is an opportunity and privilege to speak for yourself.

Besides the primary elections taking place on that first Tuesday in August, you will also be asked to make a decision on five amendments to the State of Missouri Constitution. Amendment 1 pertains to infringement on agricultural and farming practices. Amendment 5 deals with the State’s obligation to uphold and protect the right to bear arms. Amendment 8 asks you to decide the establishment of a “Veteran’s Lottery”. Amendment 9 discusses unreasonable search and seizure of electronic communication.

Amendment 7 has a direct effect on the construction industry by asking you to decide on a temporary sales tax exclusively for the use of state and local highway, road, bridge and transportation projects. Besides the obvious creation of projects in our region this amendment also impacts our industry through our ability to transport people, equipment, and materials. The construction industry relies heavily on new and updated infrastructure. Our highways, roads and bridges are the backbone of our industry. Amendment 7 impacts our industry. You get to help decide how.

I would encourage you to educate yourself on each of these proposed amendments, then participate at the ballot box. Do not let others decide for you. Please speak for yourself. That is my two cents. – Brent