Editor’s note: The photo represents one style of Voter Ballot Drop Box.
Whiteside County, IL, voters will soon know what their Drop Box looks like. The upcoming, November 3, 2020, General Election is the first time such a convenience has been available. Whiteside County Clerk Dana Nelson stated a single Ballot Drop Box will be placed “in the parking lot area, outside the Whiteside County Courthouse, upper entrance” in Morrison, IL. “We’ve never used one before.”
It is not in place yet. “It won’t go out[side] until the ballots go out,” she noted.
Voters must complete a Vote by Mail application to receive a ballot. If you do not receive your ballot, call Nelson’s office at 815-772-5189 or dnelson@whiteside.org. Return it to the County Clerk’s office by mail; in person; by email at dnelson@whiteside.org.
Vote by Mail ballots for Whiteside County citizens will be mailed during the first week of October. After completing their ballot and returning it, voters may contact the County Clerk’s office to confirm that it was received.
The United States Postal Service delivered a white postcard “to U. S. citizens” on Thursday, September 10. It stated, “If you plan to vote by mail, plan ahead. If you vote by mail, we’re committed to providing you a secure, effective way to deliver your ballot. Use this checklist to prepare.
- Start today. Give yourself and your election officials ample time to complete the process.
- Rules and dates vary by State, so contact your election board to confirm. Find links at www.usps.com/votinginfo.
- Request your mail-in ballot (often called “absentee” ballot) at least 15 days before Election Day.
- Once received, follow the instructions. Add postage to the return envelope if needed. [No postage is needed if you drop off your ballot at the Whiteside County drop box.]
- We recommend you mail [or drop off] your ballot at least seven days before Election Day.
“We’re ready to deliver for you. Make sure you’re ready, too. [Signed,] Your United States Postal Service.”