The town of Fort Frances is likely to stay with telephone and Internet voting for the next municipal election.
Administration is bringing a recommendation tonight for town council to consider.
Town Clerk Gabrielle Lecuyer says she’s seen the method prove successful in other communities.
“There is a fear when you’re running an alternative voting method of not having participation from certain age groups. I’ve seen in my past experiences with elections that has not been the case,” says Lecuyer.
Fort Frances first used the method in the 2018 election, with 51 per cent of eligible voters casting ballots.
Lecuyer says the alternative method does have the potential to increase voter turnout.
“There are the accessibility benefits that are phenomenal. People can cast their votes from their mobile devices, computers, telephone. And then, of course, the kiosk locations as well.”
The town set up a location in the council chamber in 2018 for those needing help or who didn’t have a phone or computer at home.
Lecuyer says the uncertainty of the pandemic influences the need for alternative voting methods.
“The alternative voting method that is being recommended will provide a safe environment for people to vote from the comfort of their home, should they choose to do if things do not get better.”
