By the Times-Enterprise Editorial Board

With all the costly decisions being made in Washington these days, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that our local municipalities have a lot of revenue at their disposal, too. And just like the federal government, city councils and boards of education have power to reach deeper into your pocketbook whenever they see fit.

That is why it is important to participate in Tuesday’s elections. The times require that successful candidates keep the interests of struggling taxpayers foremost in their minds.

The following is a list of the candidates we endorse:

n THOMASVILLE CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 1

We like Lewis Brunner’s experience as an educator and his call for more parental involvement in the education process. A call for the effective use of taxpayer dollars is a major plus for his candidacy.

n THOMASVILLE CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 2

Incumbents Darrell Allen and John Everett have earned additional terms. The system’s enrollment is growing and each school in it met AYP standards this year. In addition, the system has largely avoided the financial woes that have plagued others nearby.

n THOMASVILLE CITY COUNCIL

Incumbent Earl Williams Jr. has served his constituents well for 28 years. His contributions to a well-run government should not be overlooked.

n BARWICK MAYOR

This race has three candidates with various ideas they think would make the town better, but none expressed sound ideas for cracking down on a city government that obviously needs a close look at the creation of revenue other than grants. For continuity’s sake, we’ll go with incumbent Ned Simmons, who we hope will address Barwick’s core problems rather than dwell on grants and pie-in-the-sky ideas.

n BARWICK CITY COUNCIL

Candidate Tammy Cone expressed strong ideas about making Barwick a better town. She owns businesses there and wants to bring in revenue and rid Barwick finances of red ink. While opponent Greg Parker is a commendable candidate, Cone has the hands-on business expertise sorely needed in city government. Cone is our pick for the city council seat she seeks.