Drop-off box makes voting easier

No matter what time of the day, voters can turn in their ballots and absentee applications for election officials.
A drop box for the Carroll County Board of Elections has been placed in front of the 2nd St. courthouse entrance doors. Information placed in the drop box is secure since the drop box is under surveillance 24-hours a day. It is checked at least once a day by a bi-partisan team, including weekends.
An advantage to the drop box is no postage is required for the applications or ballots. However, ballots must be in the required ID envelope. Ballots must be placed in the drop box by 7:30 p.m. April 28 to be eligible for the primary election.
To receive a ballot for the election, absentee applications must be placed in the box by April 25 at noon. Ballots can also be mailed and must be postmarked by April 27.
Director Cheri Whipkey said there has been a good response even though some voters did not realize they had to fill out an absentee application before receiving a ballot. Original applications will be accepted only. No emailed or faxed copies.
The drop box is now a permanent requirement for county boards of election. The Secretary of State had suggested the purchase of the box, but is now requiring it. The cost may be reimbursed through Ohio House Bill 197.
Shown above are Carroll County Board of Elections Director Cheri Whipkey (left) watching as Deputy Director Nicole Mickley drops a ballot envelope in the drop box located in front of the 2nd St. courthouse entrance.