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Fayette County Commission authorizes purchase of electronic poll books and will seek HAVA reimbursement
Summary
The commission approved a request to purchase countywide electronic poll books (estimated ~$100,000) and authorized the county clerk to apply for HAVA grant funding that may cover up to 85% of the cost; staff described how the equipment reduces early‑voting check‑in errors. Funding and timing details were discussed and approved.
The Fayette County Commission on June 10 authorized the county clerk to purchase electronic poll books and to apply for Help America Vote Act (HAVA) grant funds to offset the cost.
County election staff explained that electronic poll books produce a barcode tied to a voter’s precinct and party for early voting check‑in, reducing human error in assigning ballot styles. “This has now become very emergent,” staff said, noting the technology can print a unique barcode for each voter and that no ballots or votes would be transmitted over the internet; only voter history/check‑in data would be queried.
Commissioners discussed cost and funding. The county was told the full deployment is roughly $100,000; HAVA funding at the state level (about $800,000 allocated to West Virginia this cycle) could reimburse up to 85% of eligible costs, meaning the county might receive as much as $85,000 depending on state allocations and the grant review. Staff also said HAVA rules allow reimbursement of costs incurred on or after Feb. 3, 2026, and that the Secretary of State’s office has assisted other counties with applications.
A commissioner urged the county clerk to expedite the application so equipment could be received before the general election; staff said they would try to fast‑track procurement and reimbursement, and noted an $85,000 capital line for election equipment already exists in the budget.
The motion to authorize purchase and seek HAVA reimbursement was seconded and approved by voice vote. The commission directed staff to coordinate timing so the purchase fits the next fiscal year where appropriate and to pursue grant reimbursement where eligible.
The clerk’s office will proceed with procurement and grant application steps; staff said training and deployment timelines will be determined if and when funding is secured.
