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No More Levers
January 5th, 2010

From BOE

Say goodbye to the physical exertion of pulling that gargantuan lever next Election Day.

The Board of Elections approved the city’s next class of voting machines today — a move that finally puts the city in compliance with federal Help America Vote Act approved in 2002.

To use the new machines, voters will have to color in dots on paper ballots (just like a standardized test — fitting for NYC) and then scan their ballot into the new machine. Manufactured by the Elections Systems & Software Inc., the DS200, pictured here, is supposed to take voting in New York to the next level and make it easier for those with disabilities to cast a ballot.

The new machines also mean votes can be tabulated immediately, making it possible for voters to correct errors at their poll site.

The full release from the board is after the jump.

Here it is:

The Commissioners of Elections in the City of New York selected the Elections Systems & Software Inc. (ES&S) DS200 scanner and the AutoMark ballot marking device as the new poll site voting system to be used in New York City beginning in Fall 2010. This change is part of the City of New York’s compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA), which mandated, among other requirements, the replacement of lever machines and implementation of voting systems with a permanent paper record. The Commissioners made this selection after completing a thorough evaluation and public hearing process for the two poll site voting systems recently certified by the New York State Board of Elections.

The ES&S DS200 scanner is a portable electronic voting system that uses an optical scanner to read marked paper ballots and tally the results. This system allows for paper ballots to be immediately tabulated at the poll site. The DS200 also notifies voters of any voting errors and allows voters to immediately correct those errors.

The ES&S AutoMark is a ballot marking device which allows any voter, including voters with disabilities, to mark a paper ballot privately and independently by using either its touch screen, Braille-enhanced keypad, sip & puff device or rocker paddle. Voters may view the ballot on an adjustable screen or may listen to the ballot over headphones. The AutoMark was in use at all poll sites in New York City during the Fall 2008 and 2009 Elections.

“The Board of Elections approached this federally mandated change in our election process in a thoughtful, comprehensive and transparent manner. However, we could not act until New York State certified the voting systems that meet State standards,” stated Commissioner of Elections in the City of New York Julie Dent. “Ensuring that every New Yorker’s vote is counted accurately remains the Board’s number one goal. We believe the DS20 poll site voting system will provide the accuracy and security that are essential in the voting process.”

Prior to State certification, the Board of Elections in the City of New York conducted a thorough evaluation of both poll site voting systems applying for certification. This evaluation process focused on several key elements, including voting system design and functionality, the voting process, accessibility and voter assistive devices, system security, voter privacy, and the vendor’s strength and experience. The Board also conducted public demonstrations throughout the City and held public hearings to gather input on the potential voting systems. The Commissioners considered the results of the evaluation process and public input in making their selection.

The DS200 complies with New York State Election Law, State Board regulations, and the federal Elections Assistance Commission (EAC) 2005 Voluntary Voting System Guidelines. The 2005 Guidelines significantly increase HAVA security requirements for voting systems and expand access, including opportunities to vote privately and independently, for individuals with disabilities.

Commissioner of Elections in the City of New York Juan Carlos “J.C.” Polanco noted, “We want voters to feel comfortable with the new poll site voting system and will shortly launch a voter education program to be sure voters know how to use the new system in the Fall 2010 Elections.” A comprehensive public education program will be conducted throughout New York City’s five boroughs. It will include a multi-language website and advertising campaign, along with voting system demonstrations conducted in communities across the City.

For more information on New York City’s new poll site voting system, voters should call 866-VOTE-NYC (866-868-3962) or visit the Board’s website at www.vote.nyc.ny.us .

The Board of Elections in the City of New York is an administrative body of ten Commissioners, two from each borough upon recommendation by both political parties and then appointed by the City Council for a term of four years. The Commissioners appoint a bipartisan staff to oversee the daily activities of its main and five borough offices. The Board is responsible for administering elections in the City of New York.

By Courtney Gross on January 5, 2010, 4:57 pm
In category: City Hall, Gotham City | No Comments »

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