King County voters will begin receiving their Special Election ballots and voters’ pamphlets this week. Only voters in districts with measures up for election will receive ballots, which will be mailed tomorrow. Printed voters’ pamphlets will be distributed only to voters in districts that requested a pamphlet. This election, voters’ pamphlets will be provided for the Lake Washington and Vashon Island School District measures. Voters in these districts will receive the pamphlets in the same envelope as their ballot.

“Special Elections involve a smaller number of voters than county-wide elections, but the same rules apply – fill out your ballot carefully with a black pen, sign the voter’s oath and, if possible, return it early,” said Sherril Huff, Elections Director. “These are all ways to help elections run smoothly and keep costs contained.”

Voting begins this week, and you can vote and return your ballot as soon as you receive it. There are six ballot drop boxes, including one at Redmond City Hall, open for returning your ballot in person, or you can mail it through the postal service, which requires a first class stamp. Ballots must be postmarked by Feb. 8 or returned to a ballot drop box by 8:00 p.m. on that day.

Voters can confirm that their ballot was mailed and see its progress online using the ballot tracker application on the King County Elections website.

To ensure that voters with disabilities are able to cast a private and independent ballot the county offers accessible voting centers. The accessible voting center at King County Elections opens on Jan. 19. More information on accessible voting centers is available online.

Tips for voting:

• Read the ballot instructions before voting

• Use a black ink pen to fill out the ballot

• Tear the stub off of the top of the ballot and recycle it

• Sign the voter’s oath on the back of the envelope using your official signature

• Return your ballot early so it’s part of the Election Night results report and ensure there’s enough time to correct any issues that may be associated with your signature

For more information, you can visit the Elections website, www.kingcounty.go/elections, or call (206) 296-8683.