MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- As Election Day nears, races for local offices in many parts of Wisconsin aren't drawing much attention. That's because there aren't many candidates.
Wisconsin Public Radio reports that a survey sponsored by the League of Wisconsin Municipalities and conducted by the Wisconsin Taxpayer Association found that declining civic engagement is widespread.
League Executive Director Jerry Deschane says about half of cities and villages surveyed said it was an issue, and about two-thirds of communities with fewer than 10,000 people had little or no competition in local races.
Deschane says local governments need to adapt to the changing work and family demands of those who serve. And he says officials need to do a better job of asking people to serve, and explaining why it's important.
