Allegheny County is gearing up for the November general election with a plan to increase voter accessibility and convenience. According to a press release by Allegheny County, the Board of Elections has unanimously approved the use of ballot return sites and, with a split vote, establishing satellite offices throughout the county.

As per the county's press release, County Executive Innamorato expressed enthusiasm for the plan, saying, “Increasing access to voting through ballot return sites and new satellite offices is critical to a vibrant democracy.” Despite the shared vision for voter access, Councilmember DeMarco voted against the satellite offices. The return sites and satellite offices provide a spectrum of services, from mailing ballots in person to registering to vote and acquiring a mail-in ballot on the spot.

Starting October 15, voters can access these services by visiting satellite offices such as Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, Community College of Allegheny County—Homewood, and two local ice rinks. Moreover, seven days before Election Day, ballot return sites will open across the county. These designated locations will allow voters to personally hand in their mail-in ballots, ensuring security and peace of mind. Deadlines for voter registration and mail-in ballot requests are 5 PM, October 21, and October 29, respectively.

Other sites, including several community landmarks like the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and the Avalon Public Library, will be available for ballot returns up to and on November 4. On Election Day, November 5th, individuals who return mail-in ballots can do so from 7 AM to 8 PM, benefiting from brief parking spots on Ross Street expressly set aside for this purpose.

Those interested in keeping abreast of updates from the Elections Department are encouraged to sign up for the Allegheny Votes E-Newsletter on the department's official website.