The King County Library System (KCLS), King County Elections (KCE) and Councilmember Dave Upthegrove celebrated a ballot drop box opening at the Kent Panther Lake Library today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The celebration took place on the same day that drop boxes across King County opened for ballots.
The ballot drop box was moved from its previous location at Kentridge High School to ensure 24-hour access during the voting period. The new location at the Kent Panther Lake Library is accessible to voters at all hours with free and convenient parking.
“Access to voting is our number one priority at King County Elections,” said Elections Director Julie Wise. “Democracy works best when all voices are heard and drop boxes play an important role in making sure that all King County voters can speak up for themselves and their communities.”
In King County, 96% of registered voters live within a 3-mile radius of a drop box location. In the 2020 Presidential election, about 75% of ballots were cast via drop box. KCLS hosts ballot drop boxes at many libraries across the county. Voters can find a library drop box location near them and stay informed about upcoming elections at kcls.org/elections.
“The King County Library System supports an active and engaged electorate,” said KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “We have been proud to partner with King County Elections to host 22 ballot drop boxes, and are excited to see the 23rd one installed at the Kent Panther Lake Library."
“King County undoubtedly has some of the best elections in the country and our shared commitment to access plays no small role in that. Our elections team works tirelessly to ensure that every vote can be counted and every voice heard, and I’m happy to support them in that work,” said King County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove.
