The privilege of casting a ballot in Lee County could soon get a little easier, thanks to the use of smartphones. And that will be possible once the county finalizes the purchase of 25 Model DS200 Digital Image Scanners from Election Systems & Software for nearly $200,000.
County Auditor Denise Fraise said her department needs the new machines to keep up with technology and changes in voting laws. She said the machines include a new feature that she believes could increase voter turnout.
"We (will) have the capability to actually (allow you to) vote your ballot on your smartphone," said Fraise. "You still have to come to the polls and check in, but you can hold your smartphone up to the scanners we will be purchasing and it will just print out your ballot.”
Fraise believes Lee County will be the first in Iowa to offer this option.
The goal is for the new machines to be available for the school and city elections this fall. Fraise said she hopes to conduct public demonstrations this summer to make sure residents know everything they have to offer.
Lee County will pay for the new machines over the next three fiscal years.
