Press release.
Election staff at voting locations throughout Guelph has been reporting a stronger than expected turnout to City officials today.
In addition the City became aware of a syncing issue with the electronic voters’ list earlier this afternoon, which also lead to an increase in wait times.
“When voters were adding themselves or updating their information at the voting location it was taking longer than expected for their information to update,” says Stephen O’Brien, City Clerk. “Voters were still receiving their ballots, and the issue had no impact on the security of the list or ballots.”
To resolve the issue, the City implemented its backup plan, switching from a mobile desktop application to a web-based version of the same product.
“The switch-over has gone smoothly and is complete,” says O’Brien. “Originally, we opted for the mobile desktop application as it is designed for use at multiple locations. We knew however that the web-based version was there as a backup if needed.
“We would like to assure residents that the syncing issue has no impact on the results reporting,” says O’Brien.
Traditionally, the City had used paper lists at voting locations; however, the electronic list enabled the City to offer residents the option to vote anywhere within their ward.
The City will issue unofficial results as they come in this evening, with official results being issued October 28.