IMPROVING ELECTION ADMINISTRATION WITH VOTE CENTERS: TOWARD A NATIONAL MODEL

In 2003, Larimer County, Colorado, was the first jurisdiction to experiment with Vote Centers as an alternative to traditional precincts. Vote Center advocates argue that they have the potential to increase voter turnout by making voting more convenient as well as cutting the election costs by reducing the number of polling places. This study examines these two arguments by investigating the installation and operation of Vote Centers in three Indiana counties. Turnout rates are compared with control counties and through time. The impact of early voting in 2008 also is examined along with the question of whether Vote Centers cut the costs of election administration. Finally, elements of a model are specified for use by counties considering adopting Vote Centers as an alternative to traditional precincts. Introduction and Background: Vote Centers vs. Traditional Precincts Sometimes referred to as “super precincts ” Vote Centers replace traditional precinct polling places, permitting voters to cast a ballot at any Vote Center location in the county. Vote Centers are made possible because information technologies have matured such that sufficient capabilities exist to securely support them without being prohibitively expensive. The 200