Monroe’s next Election Day is locked in for May 5, when City of Monroe voters will decide local issues in a special municipal election. Ahead of the big day, the city is rolling out an early-voting option and multiple secure drop-box locations so absentee voters can get their ballots in without waiting for Election Day.
The city announced the plans on its official Facebook page, confirming May 2 as the early-voting day and outlining ways to return absentee ballots, according to the City of Monroe. The statewide May election schedule lists Monroe City Hall as the city’s early-voting site on May 2, per the Michigan Secretary of State.
Where and when to vote
On Election Day, polling places across the city will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., with Monroe divided into seven precincts. One notable temporary change: voters in Precinct 3S will cast ballots at Fire Station #1, located at 911 E. Third St., according to the City of Monroe.
Early voting and returning absentee ballots
Under state rules, voters who have received an absentee ballot can insert their completed ballot directly into a tabulator during the early-voting period or at their precinct on Election Day. Mailed absentee ballots must reach the voter’s local clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day to count, according to the Michigan Secretary of State. State guidance also covers how local clerks handle ballots and, when applicable, canvass early returns.
Drop boxes and in-person options
For voters who want to skip the mail, the city has secure drop boxes at Fire Station #1 (911 E. Third St.), Fire Station #2 (1755 N. Custer), and in the City Hall parking lot (120 E. First St.). The boxes are monitored by camera around the clock and are reserved for City of Monroe ballots only. Voters can also bring ballots directly to the Clerk’s Office during posted hours or feed a voted absentee ballot into the tabulator during the early-voting session, according to the City of Monroe.
Find your precinct and get help
If you are unsure where to vote, the city’s interactive precinct map can point you to the right polling location. Check it out via the Interactive Precinct Map. For local questions, the city lists its elections office at 734-384-9140 and [email protected], as posted by the City of Monroe.
Voters are encouraged to plan: expect regular Election Day hours from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., bring a photo ID if you have one (or be ready to sign an affidavit), and consider returning an absentee ballot early to dodge any last-minute lines on May 5. City election staff are available by phone or email to help with any remaining questions.
