Merski alerts residents to one-stop-shop voting option
Voters can apply for mail-in ballot, fill it out and cast it all in one visit
Rep. Robert Merski October 13, 2020 | 3:10 PM
ERIE, Oct. 13 – State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie, wants to be sure residents are aware of a simple, one-stop-shop voting option that allows them to apply for, obtain, and cast a mail-in ballot all in one visit to the Erie County Voter Registration Office.
“With the election right around the corner, it’s time to start preparing, especially if folks plan to vote by mail but have not yet applied for a mail-in ballot,” Merski said. “I want to be sure everyone is aware of a simple, one-stop-shop option that allows residents to visit the Erie County Voter Registration Office, located in Room 112 of the Erie County Courthouse at 140 W. 6th St.
“Once there, residents can apply for and obtain a mail-in ballot, vote that ballot, and cast it by dropping it in the office’s drop box – all in one simple visit. With all the complications the pandemic has brought, it’s a great way to take care of an important civic responsibility ahead of time and get everything squared away.
“Of course, residents who want to vote by mail but don’t want to venture out can still apply online for a mail-in ballot by visiting www.votespa.com. Whichever option people choose, it’s a good idea to make a plan now, because the county must receive your application for a mail-in or absentee ballot by 5 p.m. Oct. 27.”
Merski added that residents who already chose a permanent mail-in ballot option while voting in the primary election will need to wait to receive their ballots through the mail. Once the official ballot arrives, they can either mail it in, drop it in the drop box at the courthouse, or hand-deliver it to the voter registration office.
More information about voting in Erie County is available here, and the Erie County Voter Registration Office can be reached at 814-451-6275.