Voter registration for the Consolidated Primary Election is not expected to increase this year. (WJBC file photo)

By Sarah Beckman

BLOOMINGTON - Voter participation in the Consolidated Primary Election has been low in Bloomington, but officials are not surprised.

"Because of the small election, people don't even think about it," said Kathy Turner, representative for the Bloomington Election Commission. "Each election season is different, but it doesn't surprise me that the number of voters registering for the primaries is low."

McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael said voters should pay attention to the primaries, even though there is a lack of advertising.

"They're important because they affect our local dollars and local residents," said Michael.

County clerks across the state received federal grants for the past national election, but that money is not allowed to go to the Consolidated Primary Election.

"Part of that money could be used for advertising and helping to get the word out for the election," said Michael.

Only Bloomington Township voters will see a primary this year. Voters will cast ballots for township assessor and supervisor. The Primary Election is Feb. 26. Registration closes at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday. Registration is being taken at the BEC office in downtown Bloomington or the Bloomington Public Library.

Registration for the April 9 General Election closes March 12.