The state primary election on Aug. 18 (ballots available on July 29) promises to be one of the most intriguing and perhaps important votes on Bainbridge Island in many years. Interest should be intense if for no reason than the fact it follows a May 19 special election that saw voters overwhelmingly approve a change in government – from mayor-council to council-manager.

As a result, three candidates seek election in each of the three wards – south, central and north – that are up for election this year. It’s encouraging to have a large number of candidates at a time when electing qualified, adroit representatives is critical because of the city’s many dilemmas and the council’s increased responsibilities under the new form of government.

While the three winners won’t be decided until the Nov. 3 general election, the next month is decisive for the nine candidates – seven of whom have never served as elected officials on the island – because it doesn’t give them a lot of time to get their message out to voters.

To that end, the Review will publish a special section on July 31 featuring candidate information, interviews, endorsement letters and other election details. A second election section will be published on Oct. 16 (ballots mailed Oct. 24) for the November election. Stories on each race also will appear in the regular section of the paper as deemed necessary.

To some degree, the special section will replace the printed version of the voter’s pamphlet that Kitsap County normally mails to each registered voter on the island a few weeks before each election. This year, the county decided to save money by offering only an online version of the pamphlet. And it isn’t available until 20 days before election day, coinciding with the day ballots are mailed.

One of the strongest messages voiced by citizens during the council-manager campaign was the importance of having a responsive, open council under the new government. Many criticized the current council’s inability to get beyond the bickering stage. Will the new council perform in a way that earns the community’s respect and trust? Choose wisely.