Most of the time, when it comes to elections, our attention is grabbed by the drama and sometimes bombastic nature of nationally televised debates.

Some in the hunt have changed the posture of candidate to one of celebrity, including our own Governor Chris Christie, himself vying for the GOP presidential nomination.

While we learn what qualifies a surgeon or a casino owner to be president or what on earth makes a candidate a Socialist Democrat, there still remains the important business of who runs things closer to home.

That’s where municipal elections come in. No, these jobs aren’t nearly under the spotlight shown by the national media, but in many ways are arguably just as important. It’s the hometown races for offices such as mayor that impact the local taxes we pay and the municipal services we receive, ranging from filling potholes to clearing snow to picking up trash. Municipal services stretch to our police and fire protection, and to our parks and recreational services.

This election cycle we’ve already been warned of a light voter turnout. We hope that is not the case. Indeed, we urge you, no matter what your party affiliation, to participate in this choice you are granted. If you decide that the local elections aren’t as important or you don’t have time to go vote, then please reconsider any complaints you might have with your local municipal services.

This is your chance. Candidates have made themselves available at political forums and numerous appearances, working for your vote. Some have track records, others are newcomers.

An illustration: Five candidates, including three incumbents, are running for three spots on Teaneck’s Board of Education, which controls a budget of approximately $95 million, representing approximately 65% of the town budget, and is responsible for educating nearly 4,000 students. As such, the Board of Education has a direct influence on the quality of Teaneck’s public schools and quality of life in Teaneck. It also impacts non-public school families, which include the majority of the Jewish Link’s readership base, with respect to issues such as busing to private schools.

Take some time, and make your selections on Tuesday.

The candidates have done their part to inform you of their qualifications.

Now it’s up to you.