The Colusa County Elections Office is considering transitioning to election administration under the California Voter’s Choice Act, county officials said.
The County released a draft Election Administration Plan on July 13 that provides information to the voters of Colusa County about the VCA.
The plan describes the vote-by-mail process, Vote Center and Ballot Drop Box locations, and the technology that will be utilized during this process, said Colusa County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Cristy Edwards in a news release.
In accordance with the Voter’s Choice Act, within two years, if the plan is adopted, the Colusa County Elections Office will hold public meetings to consider revising the first EAP. Every four years thereafter, the Colusa County Elections Office will hold public meetings to consider revising the EAP.
“This new way of holding elections has many benefits for voters,” Edwards said. “First, and foremost, is the ease of access to voting. Voters decide when, where, and how they vote, and the time frame within which voters may vote has been significantly expanded.”
In the VCA model, voters may use the services of the Voter Assistance Center regardless of where they live, starting up to 10 days prior to the election, including weekends. They may also fill their mail ballot out at home and return it to any vote center, secure drop box, USPS mail, or return in person to the Elections office.
“In summary, this voting model provides extended voting timeframes with multiple consistent voting options,” Edwards said. “A key component of the EAP is outreach and community involvement. Participation is critical to continue to ensure future elections are successful.”
The Colusa County Elections Office has opened a public comment period. Public comments on the draft EAP, which is available online at www.countyofcolusa.org/197/Elections, may be submitted to clerkinfo@countyofcolusa.com.
A public hearing will be held by the Colusa County Board of Supervisors on Aug. 15, inside board chambers.
Following the public hearing, proposed changes will incorporate community input and be presented in an updated Draft of the EAP for a public hearing and possible approval.
“It is our hope that with public review and input, and a public hearing, there will be an adoption of the Colusa County Final EAP,” Edwards said.■