The value of a vote depends on what a vote determines.  Americans vote to customize who inhabits key positions in local government by selecting reps that will deliver expectations for families and communities.  Local elections involve ability to choose a candidates that may become your representative to help deliver public services. 

Reps do perform a degree of leadership.  Their direct line-management authority is primarily confined to their personal and office staff rather than career civil servants or separate branches of government.  Management of those positions stems from other positions.

Freedom of speech furthers that electors can inform public servants of personal expectations or contest misconduct to encourage that local, State and Federal standards are met.