Over 400,000 Washington County voters should keep an eye on their mailboxes as ballots for the upcoming Special District Election on May 20 start rolling out today. Expected to land by May 7, these ballots mark the county's latest step in ensuring voter participation in the region's electoral process. For those who haven't hit the age of majority, ballots will only be sent once they celebrate their 18th birthday in alignment with elections happening thereafter, according to an announcement by the Washington County.
If the mailman skips a beat and your ballot doesn't appear by the aforementioned date, you can snag a replacement by giving the Elections Office a ring at 503-846-5800—an action open to any registered voter missing their ticket to democracy. When voters have filled in their choices, they've got options to return their ballots: drop it off in-person at the Elections Office, mail it back with no need for a stamp, or find an Official Ballot Drop Box scattered across the county, all without the need of the sun in the sky—these boxes are open 24/7, as reported by the Washington County.
In a techy twist, you can also keep tabs on your ballot with BallotTrax, a free service dishing out updates through text, email, or voice messages. It'll tell you when your ballot is mailed, received, accepted, or if there's an issue that demands your gaze, the Washington County stated. Plus, in a virtual twist on a voting tradition, 'I Voted' stickers are now up for grabs on Instagram to jazz up your stories and flaunt your civic engagement.
Moving beyond ballots and stickers, Washington County Elections is beefing up accessibility with a Voter Assistance Team, tasked with easing the voting process for everyone. Translation and interpretation services are up for grabs in a variety of languages, and accommodations for voters with disabilities are on the docket—including visits to community centers and assisted living facilities. For those seeking a helping hand, reaching out sooner rather than later is smart, as election season is notorious for its hustle and bustle. Still, even the tardiest of requests for assistance will be met with an effort to help, as noted by the Washington County.
The county has published the comprehensive list of drop box locations, ensuring easy access for residents across the area. Among them, places like Aloha Community Library, Beaverton City Library, and Westside Commons stand ready to collect your civic contribution. For the full rundown of drop boxes, including the newly added Public Services Building Parking Lot location, be sure to check out WashCoVotes.org for all your election needs, as per the Washington County.
