Residents of Clackamas County looking for an easier path to participate in the upcoming election have just received a boost from the county's Elections Division. A new pop-up vote center is scheduled to open inside Happy Valley Library beginning Monday, Oct. 21, just weeks before the next general election. This move is aimed at providing convenient access for voters from Happy Valley, Sandy, Damascus, and surrounding northeast communities.
According to a recent announcement by Clackamas County Elections, the Happy Valley Vote Center is a supplemental option to the main elections office in Oregon City. The services offered include replacement of lost or damaged ballots, updating voter registration information, and providing voting assistance for those with disabilities or language preferences. Voted ballots can be returned, and residents can also vote in person at this location. The Happy Valley Vote Center will be operational Oct. 21 through Nov. 5, with hours extending on Saturday, Nov. 2, and Election Day, Nov. 5.
"Clackamas County Elections is able to increase access to voting services with the launch of the Happy Valley Vote Center, making it possible for every eligible voter to be able to vote hassle-free," Clerk Catherine McMullen shared in a statement obtained by the Clackamas County. Both the new vote center and the main Clackamas County Elections Office will be staffed by sworn election officials ready to assist voters.
Moreover, voters are urged to take advantage of the "Track Your Ballot" feature, which notifies them when their ballot is mailed and received. They can sign up at the county's elections website. For those who have yet to receive their ballots by Oct. 23, the elections office encourages immediate contact. Updates to voter registration information, including changes of address, names, or signatures, can be adjusted up until 8 p.m. on Election Day, providing ample room for even last-minute changes. "I encourage voters who still need to update voter registration or have questions about their voter registration to contact their local elections office as soon as possible," McMullen told Clackamas County. "We understand that every voter’s situation is unique and are available to assist with voter registration questions until Election Day."
When it comes to returning ballots, no postage is necessary and they can be mailed back with a valid postmark or taken to any of the 26 Official Ballot Drop Sites throughout the county by 8 p.m. on Election Day. A full list of drop sites is provided in the County Voters’ Pamphlet and also online, ensuring that voters have every opportunity to ensure their ballot is counted in the upcoming election.
