Portsmouth residents can look forward to a more efficient voting process during the upcoming municipal election on November 7, thanks to a new electronic voter check-in system announced by the City Clerk. The innovative technology will replace the traditional paper voter list, streamlining the identification process and reducing waiting times at polling places in the city's wards.

According to a press release from the City of Portsmouth, voters will be required to provide their names and photo IDs as usual. However, instead of manually verifying their identities using a paper list, poll workers will utilize a digital poll pad to quickly confirm the accuracy of the information provided.

Once the voter's identity has been verified, they will receive a printed confirmation of their authorization to vote. This confirmation will be handed to the poll worker responsible for distributing ballots. Voters will then proceed to mark their ballots according to the provided instructions.

Although a paper list will still be kept at each polling place as a backup, the introduction of electronic check-in is expected to significantly expedite the voting process. By eliminating the need for manual cross-referencing of names, poll workers will be able to process voters more swiftly, reducing queue times and improving overall efficiency.

The City of Portsmouth anticipates that the new electronic check-in system will contribute to increased voter turnout, as it aims to provide a convenient and seamless voting experience for residents. By embracing modern technology, officials hope to encourage participation and engagement in local elections.

It is important to note that the press release was produced by the City of Portsmouth, and any opinions expressed are solely those of the author. Stay updated on the latest developments in Portsmouth by accessing free real-time updates from Patch, or sign up for their newsletters and alerts to receive local news directly in your inbox.

As November 7 approaches, the City of Portsmouth remains committed to ensuring a smooth and accessible voting process, empowering residents to exercise their civic duty without unnecessary delays or complications.