Ballot Information from STRS

From Laura Ecklar, April 9, 2009
EcklarL@strsoh.org
Subject: Blog Posting

Dear Ms. Bracy,

It has come to my attention that there is a posting on your blog from Lenora Wood regarding the Retirement Board election. In it, she incorrectly states that if voters mark their ballots with an “X” or a “check mark,” the vote will not be counted.

VR Election Services prefers that the voting box be completely filled in by pencil or black ink because this facilitates the scanning of the votes. However, check marks and an “X” can also be read by the scanner. In addition, after each mail ballot is electronically scanned, it is also physically looked at by a VR Election Services employee, who compares the actual ballot with the scanner report to ensure each vote was correctly recorded.

Finally, when the board of tellers meets at STRS Ohio following the conclusion of the election, the tellers have an opportunity to spot-check mail ballots with the voting reports.

I hope that any further questions about the election will be directed to me so that we can ensure correct information is provided to STRS Ohio members.

Thank you for your consideration.

Laura Ecklar
Director, Communication Services