Monterey County sees strong voter turnout with 69.3 percent in November presidential election

The Monterey County Board of Supervisors convened on February 4, 2025, to discuss the outcomes and processes surrounding the presidential election held on November 5, 2024. The meeting featured a detailed presentation from the Elections Department, led by Registrar of Voters Gina Martinez, along with Assistant Registrar Jessica Sidio and Deputy Registrar Greta Arevalo.

The presentation began with an overview of the election framework, emphasizing compliance with federal and state laws designed to ensure voter access and election integrity. Martinez highlighted the record number of registered voters in Monterey County, totaling 214,883, with a voter turnout of 69.3%. Notably, 88.4% of votes were cast by mail, marking a significant trend in voting preferences.

Sidio elaborated on the operational improvements made by the Elections Department, particularly the enhancements at the Shilling Place campus, which facilitated efficient ballot processing and voter accessibility. The facility's design allows for simultaneous election activities, improving workflow and transparency. The introduction of new technology, such as a vote-by-mail sorting system, has also streamlined operations.

The discussion then shifted to the election processing timeline, detailing the steps taken to ensure accurate vote counting. Key points included the verification of voter registration and signature matching, which are critical for maintaining election security. The department faced challenges, particularly with provisional ballots and signature mismatches, which require additional scrutiny and processing time.

Supervisor Daniels raised questions regarding the certification timeline mandated by Assembly Bill 3184, which required results to be certified by December 3, 2024. The board discussed the implications of this legislation and the potential for future proposals to expedite the certification process.

Further inquiries from supervisors focused on the transparency of vote counting and the timing of report releases. The Elections Department explained that while they aim to provide timely updates, the complexity of the process necessitates careful verification, which can delay the release of results.

The meeting concluded with supervisors expressing gratitude for the Elections Department's efforts, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the pandemic and the increasing complexity of election processes. The department plans to continue enhancing its operations, including investing in electronic poll books and addressing staffing needs to ensure future elections run smoothly.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of transparency, efficiency, and community engagement in the electoral process, as Monterey County prepares for future elections.