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Harrison County courts backs keeping countywide polling‑place system in resolution
Summary
The commission approved a resolution urging the Texas Legislature to retain the countywide polling‑place program, citing convenience for voters, lower provisional ballot rates and the role of electronic poll books; the vote was unanimous.
Harrison County Commissioners Court voted 5–0 to adopt a resolution in favor of retaining the countywide polling‑place program and the use of electronic poll books.
Elections Administrator Robinette presented the resolution and explained the countywide system allows voters to cast ballots at any county polling location on election day, a change he said reduces provisional ballots and improves voter convenience. He told the court that in a recent election about 30,000 people voted and only 22 provisional ballots were cast countywide; he argued that returning to a precinct‑based system would raise provisional ballot counts and increase voter frustration.
Robinette also noted that the countywide program depends on electronic poll books, which he said are the only voting‑related device that connects to the internet; he emphasized the actual tabulation equipment remains offline. "Therefore, the electronic poll books do connect to the Internet. All other actual voting equipment is always offline," he said, describing that arrangement as a security feature. He asked the court to adopt a positive resolution urging lawmakers to preserve the countywide option; the court approved the resolution unanimously.
What happens next: the court indicated staff may send the resolution to legislators and could testify in Austin if needed. Robinette said his office will continue training and equipment testing ahead of upcoming school and city elections.
