The gruelling 10-month obstacle course that marks the path to Toronto’s mayoralty is finally over. Candidates have endured scores of debates, made hundreds of speeches, shaken thousands of hands and spent millions of dollars. But only one will wear the mayor’s chain of office.

Now it’s all up to us — the voters. To make sure the best contender wins, it’s vital that informed people come out in large numbers to cast a ballot. Healthy democracy requires broad participation. At stake is the efficient and effective governance of Canada’s largest city. And if there was ever a time to make your vote count, it’s now.

The dysfunction and division at city hall have been a disaster for Toronto. But at least one good thing has come out of Rob Ford’s scandal-saturated time in office — it got people following city politics like never before.

A record turnout at Toronto’s advance polls is welcome evidence of heightened interest. More than twice as many early ballots have been cast compared to last time. That’s a good omen, pointing to strong participation on Election Day.

It’s crucial that people follow through and vote today. A low turnout favours candidates with limited but fervent support. Just over 50 per cent of eligible electors bothered to vote in 2010. That meant riled-up members of so-called Ford Nation, inspired to go to the polls, exerted an influence far beyond their numbers.

Politicians who depend on a narrow base tend to cater to it. And Toronto can’t afford another four years of an administration pitching reckless policies to one particular sector of the city.

The solution is a strong turnout from every part of Toronto. This is the moment for voters to step forward and make their vote count. It’s never been more important.