Bow, NH, is set to enhance its election process following a recent Board of Selectmen meeting on July 22, 2025, where officials discussed the procurement of new ballot counting devices. The council confirmed that both the LHS Dominion and Voting Works machines will qualify for a New Hampshire state credit, effectively reducing the cost of these devices by 50%. This significant financial relief means that the town will only need to cover half of the quoted prices for the machines.

During the meeting, council members expressed their support for the new technology, highlighting its potential to streamline the voting process. The machines are designed to scan and retain images of every ballot, including write-in votes, which will improve efficiency and accuracy during elections. Unlike previous methods that required manual sorting of ballots, the new systems will allow election officials to review ballots digitally, saving time and reducing the likelihood of errors.

The discussion also touched on the implementation of a large screen connected to the ballot counting machines, which would display the images of ballots for public viewing. This transparency aims to bolster public confidence in the electoral process, allowing observers to see how votes are counted in real-time.

As Bow prepares to adopt these advanced voting technologies, the council is optimistic about the positive impact on future elections. The integration of these systems not only promises to enhance operational efficiency but also aims to foster greater trust among voters in the electoral process. The town is looking forward to a smoother and more transparent voting experience in the upcoming elections.