Time is running out to vote in one of the most important elections in Renton in recent  times  –  where to locate the downtown library.

We’ve expressed before the importance of strong turnouts to decide the issues of the day, to give the decision validity from a policy standpoint.  Of course, the will of the people is always valid; but if that will is only made known by a relatively small percentage of voters, then its actual expression of that will is suspect.

That’s why every vote counts, especially if the true will of the citizens of Renton is to keep their beloved library over the river. A strong expression of public support would show that a big majority of Renton’s citizens are behind a solution that keeps the Cedar library and would send a strong message to the King County Library System that their customers, the citizens of Renton, don’t want to move their library.

The  argument is the same for the new library west of the Piazza, a show of faith that it’s time to move on.  We argue that it’s the most economical way to provide Renton with a state-of-the-art library downtown. That outcome would validate what the Renton City Council has already decided through the purchase of the Big 5 site and subsequent agreements with KCLS.

All we’re asking is please vote. Either way, send a message loud and clear. If the vote is close, then the losing side needs to accept the results.

Ballots must be postmarked no later than Tuesday,  Aug. 7.