Supervisor of elections offers reminders about March 20 School Board referendum and other votes that day

School district seeking renewal of special 1-mill tax

Image courtesy Sarasota County School Board

Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner is offering the following information to help ensure a smooth Election Day on March 20, his staff has announced:

  • The March 20 elections include the countywide School District Ad Valorem Millage Election, which is open to all registered voters, the Holiday Park Park & Recreation District Election (Precinct 341) and the Town of Longboat Key General Election (Precinct 201). The latter two are open to registered voters who reside in those two local jurisdictions, a news release explains.
  • Voters should review their sample ballots before heading out to the polls, the release adds. “Sample ballots, including candidate names and other important election information, have been mailed to voting households and also may be viewed or downloaded atwww.SarasotaVotes.com,” the release points out. “Click on ‘Precinct Finder’ and follow the easy instructions for your personalized sample ballot,” the release says.
  • Marked vote-by-mail ballots may be returned by mail or in person, the release notes, but they must reach the elections office no later than7 p.m.on Election Day to be counted. “Remember to sign the voter certificate on your vote-by-mail ballot return envelope,” the release emphasizes.
  • Four early voting sites, including all three elections offices — in Sarasota, North Port and Venice — along with the Town of Longboat Key Town Hall will be open to all eligible voters through Saturday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
  • Polls will be open on Election Day from7 a.m. to 7 p.m.A voter must cast a ballot at the polling place in his or her assigned precinct on March 20. “You can find your polling location on your voter information card and at www.SarasotaVotes.com,” the release notes. “You may also call the elections office at (941) 861-8619.”
  • A voter must present valid and current photo and signature ID upon check-in during early voting and on Election Day. “If you do not produce ID,” the release says, “you will be offered a provisional ballot.” Among valid IDs are a current Florida driver license, Florida ID card, U.S. passport, debit or credit card, military ID, student ID, retirement center ID, neighborhood association ID, public assistance ID, veteran health ID, a concealed carry permit or a government employee ID, the release adds.

Have a question? Call the elections office at 861-8600 or visit www.SarasotaVotes.com.