5 Things You Can Do to Be a Better Voter in Royal Oak

1. Apply for an absent voter ballot. 

If you can't get to your polling place, you can still exercise your right to vote. Royal Oak absentee voter applications are posted on-line. If you want the ballot mailed, your application must be received by 2 p.m. the Saturday before the election. 

2. Review a sample ballot.

Ballots are posted on michigan.gov and Royal Oak's website.

3. Learn about the issues. 

You can read what city commission candidates Sharlan Douglas, Diane Hargan. Jeremy Marhle and David Poulton have to say, watch them debate or learn more about the city's ballot proposals by clicking on Patch's election tab.   

Information about the School District Operating Millage Renewal proposal is available by clicking on the district webpage devoted to informing voters.    Information can also be found in the Superintendent's most recent Patch submission.  

4. Get answers to frequently asked questions

The Department of State website has posted detailed information on what to do if you've lost your voter registration card, how to determine your precinct, what you can and can't bring to the polls with you and more.

Election Day is Nov. 5. The polls open will 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

5. Write a letter to the editor. 

Tell your friends and neighbors who you support in the city council races or how you feel about the school bond referendum. Letters can be sent to judy.davids@patch.com or posted directly to our Speak Out Conversation board. Just click in the "What do you want to share?" box and start typing!