Election Commission Offers Reminders

With interest running high in the May 6 primary elections, local voters are reminded of certain deadlines that are fast approaching.
“The last day the election office can receive a request for an absentee ballot is April 29,” said Dennis Stanley, Administrator of Elections. “Of course the actual ballots can arrive as late as election day, but the request to receive an absentee ballot must be in our office no later than April 29.”
Also, the last day of early voting is May 1. “The turnout for early voting has been high and we hope that trend continues,” Stanley said.
Meanwhile, the election office took occasion to remind candidates about laws and issues relating to campaign signs.
“There is a 100 ft campaign free zone from every entrance to a polling place,” Stanley said. “We have received reports that some political signs may be closer than 100 feet at a couple of the polling places, a direct violation of state law that could result in a Class C misdemeanor charge.”
Also, Stanley said candidates should be mindful of where they are displaying their signs for other reasons, particularly visibility.
“The City of Smithville has received a few complaints about signs causing a visibility problem for motorists, especially around the courthouse,”
Stanley said. “Candidates need to be mindful of the motorist visibility.”