Scott County, Indiana

For Immediate Release

Contact: Scott County Election Board/ Scott County Clerk of Courts/812.752.8420 Ext. 4

SCOTT COUNTY IS NOW A VOTE CENTER COUNTY!

Scottsburg, INDIANA, February 14, 2024- Scott County has transitioned to a vote center county in order to streamline the voting process, reduce costs associated with maintaining multiple precincts, and increase accessibility by allowing voters to cast their ballots at any designated vote center in the county, providing flexibility and convenience for Scott County residents.

What is a vote center? A vote center is a polling location where any eligible voter in the county may go to vote. The vote center model gives voters more flexibility on Election Day because they are not constrained to a specific polling location.  Vote centers are connected through secure internet connections, and as ballots are cast, an electronic poll book is instantaneously updated. Scott County will have vote centers located at Scottsburg High School and Austin High School.

Why vote centers for Scott County? In April of 2022, Clerk Michelle Shelton was approached by both Democratic and Republican party chairs about switching to vote centers in Scott County. In November of 2022, the Scott County Election Board decided to take the vote center concept to the Scott County Commissioners for their approval. The commissioners and county council both passed resolutions and approved vote centers for our county. The Election Board then held public meetings to gather feedback from the community before coordinating the plan. The State of Indiana approved our vote center plan in late 2023. Vote centers provide several benefits for our residents and county as listed below:

1. Increased Accessibility: Vote centers allow voters to cast their ballots at any location within the designated jurisdiction, making it easier for people to participate in the electoral process.
   2.      Flexibility: Voters are not restricted to a specific polling place based on their residential address, which accommodates individuals with busy schedules, mobility issues, or those who may be away from their registered precinct on Election Day.
   3.      Reduced Wait Times: Consolidating polling locations into vote centers can help alleviate congestion and long lines, as resources are concentrated in fewer places, leading to a more efficient voting experience.
   4.      Cost Savings: Operating fewer polling locations can result in cost savings for election administrators, as there are fewer facilities to secure, staff, and maintain.
   5.      Enhanced Voter Experience: Vote centers often feature modernized equipment and technology, providing voters with a more user-friendly and efficient voting process, including electronic poll books and ballot marking devices.
   6.      Improved Voter Turnout: By offering greater convenience and flexibility, vote centers may encourage higher voter turnout rates, as individuals find it easier to participate in elections.
   
   
   

The Scott County Election Board wants to ensure the public is aware that early voting and absentee voting will continue to take place as it has in the past.  Saturday voting will continue to take place at the Scott County Courthouse. Voters needing the traveling board’s assistance may also request that through the Scott County Clerk’s office.

Early voting dates and times are as follows: In office Primary Election early voting hours for the 2024 Election will start April 9, 2024, and all precincts will be allowed to vote in the courthouse. Voting hours will be as follows: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed 12:30 p.m. -1:30 p.m. for lunch. Registered voters may also vote on Saturday, April 27th, and May 4^th at the courthouse as well as Austin High School Gym, and on Monday, May 6th from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the courthouse.

In office general early voting hours for the 2024 General Election will start on October 8th. All precincts will be allowed to vote in the courthouse. Hours will be as follows: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed 12:30 p.m. -1:30 p.m. for lunch. Registered voters may also vote on Saturday, October 26th, and November 2^nd at the courthouse as well as Austin High School Gym, and on Monday, November 4th from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the courthouse.

Voters may request an ABS Mail ballot application until April 25^th for the primary and October 24^th for the general. The county also has the Traveling Board available for voters who need this service to vote. To request the traveling board, please call the Clerk's Office at 812-752-8420 Ext. 4

When voting in office or at the polls, registered voters must present a current photo identification.

The Clerk's Office is located on the first floor of the courthouse in downtown Scottsburg.

Overall, the transition to vote centers aims to modernize and streamline the electoral process, making it more accessible, efficient, and inclusive for all eligible voters. The Scott County Election Board is excited about this new endeavor, and we are happy to answer any questions or concerns citizens may have regarding the transition to vote centers.