As November 7, 2023, approaches, the Buncombe County Election Office is in the home stretch of orchestrating the municipal elections. The current focus is on the efficient execution of early voting, which has seen 184 proactive citizens casting their ballots thus far. The final Saturday of early voting is poised for a significant turnout, reflecting the community’s vibrant civic engagement.
In a proactive move, the elections office inaugurated an additional early voting site in Weaverville to facilitate voter access. Both early voting locations concluded on schedule, and the subsequent audit process was conducted with notable enthusiasm, marking early evenings even before the last voter had their say—a testament to the team’s efficiency.
The October 31st board meeting highlighted an important aspect of electoral balance. It was observed that during the absentee ballot review, a solitary GOP member was present, underscoring the necessity for bipartisan participation. This critical team oversees voter ID verifications, witnesses, and notaries on ballots and organizes the early and absentee ballots by precinct.
Deliberations included the validity of IDs that expired within a year, the nuances of provisional licenses, and the utility of an affidavit form for certain ballots, with proposals tabled to refine the process in future elections. The board unanimously approved the duplication of UOCAVA ballots and the absentee-by-mail ballots reviewed during this meeting.
Attention turns now to the precincts actively involved in the municipal elections for Weaverville, Woodfin, and Woodfin Water & Sewer, where voters are preparing to wield their democratic power:
- 5.1 – St. Eugene Catholic Church
- 28.1 – Covenant Reformed Presbyterian (voting at 5.1 – St. Eugene Catholic Church)
- 41.1 – French Broad Fire (voting at 69.1 – Erwin High School)
- 42.1 – Emma Elementary School
- 58.1 – N Buncombe Middle School
- 59.1 – First Born Baptist Church
- 67.1 – Weaverville Town Hall
- 68.1 – West Buncombe School
- 69.1 – Erwin High School
- 70.1 – Woodfin Community Center
- 71.1 – Weaverville Community Center
This election, marked by a conspicuous absence of Republican candidates, nonetheless serves as a strategic opportunity for the board to fine-tune voter ID and voting machine protocols, ensuring readiness for more bustling future elections.
The community is invited to observe the democratic process in action at the board meeting on November 6 at 5:30 PM, with a subsequent session on Election Day at 2:00 PM, located at the Buncombe County Elections Services Office. Accessibility is key, and for those unable to attend, a live broadcast will be available on YouTube, ensuring no one misses the chance to stay informed. For additional details or queries, the Buncombe County Elections Board Meetings page stands ready as a resource.
