Lincoln, Neb. – As the November general election approaches, Lancaster County is seeing a surge in the use of its five secure early‑vote drop boxes. Over 34,000 early‑voting ballots have already been mailed to voters, and Election Commissioner Todd Wiltgen says the county is prepared to handle the influx.
Drop boxes provide a safe, convenient alternative to the mail
Wiltgen explained that many voters have expressed concern about mailing their completed ballots, fearing delays or lost mail. \”That’s another common concern that I’ve heard,\” he said. \”That’s why a few years ago we put out the drop boxes.\”
One drop box is located at the Lancaster County Election Commission office, with four additional boxes placed in Lincoln public libraries. All boxes are built of steel and concrete, monitored by video surveillance, and emptied each day by election staff from multiple political parties to ensure impartial handling.
How to use the drop boxes
Voters who have already requested an early ballot will receive it by mail within the week, according to Wiltgen. Once the ballot is completed, it can be mailed or dropped off at any of the five locations. The commissioner recommends using a drop box rather than waiting until the last minute to mail a ballot.
\”I know that the Postal Service talks about a two‑day delivery for Lincoln. I wouldn’t chance that. I use the week,\” Wiltgen said. \”I start advising voters a week before the election that it’s too late to mail their ballots; they should use a drop box.\”
Deadlines and reminders
The county must receive all early‑voting ballots by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Having a ballot in the mail on Election Day does not satisfy the deadline. Voters who have not yet requested an early ballot can still do so. The request‑by‑mail deadline is Oct. 23, and in‑person early voting at the Election Commission office begins Oct. 5.
Wiltgen also reminded voters to sign the envelope that accompanies each early ballot. \”Forgetting to sign the envelope is one of the most common mistakes we see,\” he noted.
Why the increase matters
Increased use of the drop boxes reflects growing public awareness of the option and confidence in the security measures in place. By providing a reliable, non‑mail alternative, the county aims to ensure that every eligible voter can cast a ballot without fear of postal delays.
Wiltgen concluded with a call to action: \”If you want to vote early, make a plan. You can either come to the office, pick up a ballot, or have one mailed to you. It’s not too late.\”
With the election only weeks away, Lancaster County officials continue to emphasize the importance of early voting and the convenience of the drop‑box system as a cornerstone of a smooth, accessible electoral process.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
