The list of certified candidates has been completed in the town of Bancroft and the next phase in the municipal election process is underway.
Town Clerk Amber Wannamaker says now that the candidate filing phase has ended the behind-the-scenes operational work has begun.
The town will use a new system for the second time allowing residents to cast their votes online or by telephone only.
“It’s still cumbersome but there isn’t as much manpower needed on election night with the electronic voting. It is a very quick process at the end. We definitely did see some significant financial improvements compared to the previous elections using paper ballots.”
Eligible voters will be able to vote online using a smart phone, tablet, gaming device or computer. The town will send out voter instruction letters containing their date of birth, personal identification number (PIN) and qualifying information, to access the correct internet address. A touch-tone telephone may also be used and the same information will be required.
For those without means to access voting by telephone or internet, or who require assistance, a voter help centre will be open to provide in-person internet voting opportunities via a laptop or tablet. No location has been selected.
Voter turnout in Bancroft for the 2018 election with paper ballots was 44.8 per cent. That figure dropped to 41.2 per cent in 2022, the first year of Internet and telephone voting.
Wannamaker added the voter’s list will be certified on Wednesday.
“If you aren’t on it, you can make an application at the municipal clerk’s office. People can come to the town office to find out and they will just need to show a piece of ID.”
If someone isn’t on the list, they will need to fill out a form. The election is Oct. 26.
