The Peru Gazette

Plattsburgh – Given the presidential election and the COVID-19 pandemic, many at-risk people are undoubtedly considering casting absentee ballots. Absentee voting is nothing new. It’s been in use for decades, especially by military members and people serving overseas, as well as the sick and disabled. This year all registered voters are eligible to apply for an absentee ballot. Voters with internet access will find an absentee ballot application at the Clinton County Board of Elections website. Other voters can stop by the Board of Elections at the Clinton County Government Center in Plattsburgh. 

Block #1 of the NYS Absentee Ballot Application lists several reasons for requesting an absentee ballot. Applicants concerned about being exposed to COVID-19 should check “temporary illness or disability.” In Block #7,  an applicant has three options: 1. Authorize someone else to pick up their ballot at the Board of Elections. 2. Have the ballot delivered to them personally at the Board of Elections. 3. Have the ballot mailed to a specific address. Block #8 requires that the applicant sign and date the application. Applications must be mailed to the Board of Elections at least seven days before Election Day, November 3, or hand-delivered to the Board of Elections by the day before Election Day.  

If you apply soon, absentee ballot materials will be sent to you at least 32 days before federal, state, county, city, or town elections in which you are eligible to vote. If you apply after that date, your ballot will be sent immediately after your completed, and signed application is received and processed by the Board of Elections. Contact the Board of Elections (518-565-4740) if you have not received your ballot in a timely manner. 

Absentee ballots must be postmarked no later than November 3. Mailed ballots received up to seven days following November 3 will be counted. Military and other overseas ballots will be counted if received by November 16.