Early voting is now underway across Georgia. Here’s what’s on the ballot in Macon-Bibb County.

On the ballot for Bibb County voters is the continuation of the ESPLOST, the penny-per dollar sales tax for education. There are also two statewide races, the Georgia Public Service Commission races for Districts 2 and 3.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Tuesday marked the first day of early voting for the November 4 election in Georgia. In Macon, officials urged residents to get in the booth and make their voices heard.

“If you don’t go and walk into the poll then you have neglected the most powerful right that you have,” said State Rep. David Lucas (D-Macon). 

On the ballot for Bibb County voters is the continuation of the ESPLOST, the penny-per dollar sales tax for education. There are also two statewide races, the Georgia Public Service Commission races for Districts 2 and 3.

Tom Gillon, Supervisor for the Macon-Bibb County Board of Elections, says odd year election turnout is usually low, as displayed in the Public Service Commission primaries earlier this year.

“We had just over 3,000 people voting,” Gillon said. “About 3,500, which is about 3%, and that’s very low.” 

Gillon encourages those in Macon-Bibb County to buck the trend, and turnout.

“In my opinion, every election is important,” Gillon said. “It can be just a SPLOST or just the Public Service Commission, but I think everyone should vote for everything just as though it was the presidential election.”

Peter Hubbard, the Democratic candidate for Public Service Commission District 3, was in Macon Tuesday, rallying supporters at Carolyn Crayton Park. Hubbard vowed to bring clean, reliable and affordable energy to more Georgians.

“We can put money back into your pockets, not the pockets of utility executives,” Hubbard said. “We can have a Public Service Commission that actually serves the public. And it starts with your vote.” 

There will be three weeks of early voting, with precincts inside the Macon Mall, the Elaine H. Lucas Senior Center and the Theron Ussery Community Center. Leaders say this leaves no excuse not to get out and make a difference.

“It takes people to understand people, as well as what’s happening to our economy in Georgia,” Lucas said. “So, don’t complain, vote!”

To find your nearest polling location, as well as precinct hours, click here.