Some 1,800 mail-in votes for next month’s municipal election already have been received at the Civic Centre, town clerk Glenn Treftlin reported this morning.
“As of yesterday, we’ve received 1,462. But this morning’s mail just came in and it looks like there’s between 300-400,” he noted.
“Today is the largest single return so far.”^As ballots will be accepted up to 8 p.m. on Nov. 10, Treftlin noted there’s plenty of time to see even more ballots come in.
“I’m optimistic we’re going to have a great turnout. There really seems to be enthusiasm about this election out there, which is great,” he added. “The system is working— and the ballots are secure.”^The total number of eligible voters in Fort Frances is 6,676, including 75 new names added to the voters’ list in late September and early October.
Voter turnout in the last municipal election in 2000 was 3,381— including 2,333 ballots that were mailed in and another 1,048 that were dropped off at the Civic Centre, Rainycrest, and La Verendrye Hospital.
A total of 48 of those ballots were spoiled, leaving a total of 3,333 votes counted.
Treftlin noted if eligible voters have not received their ballots in the mail yet, they should drop by the Civic Centre and inquire.
If the resident has moved, the ballot may have gone to their former address and since been returned to the town. If so, they will have it for them there.
Or the resident may not be on the voters’ list, in which case, they can fill out a form, be added to the list, and given a voting kit right on the spot.
This also applies to those who may have received their ballot in the mail but, for whatever reason, had since spoiled it, added Treftlin.
He added that to ensure your ballot is counted, mail it in before Nov. 6.
If you’re a last-minute voter, or are doubtful Canada Post may not deliver your mail-in ballot to the Civic Centre on time, you can drop it off there before 8 p.m. on Nov.
10.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
