I appreciate the concerns expressed by Edith Edwards (“Elections Dept. must be lawful,” 12/29/10). As the elected County Auditor, I am the public official charged with the conduct of elections in San Juan County. Along with my Elections staff, I share the concerns of every citizen who cares about the integrity of elections.

Ballot processing is a fluid process. We are required by law to notify parties when we begin processing ballots. It has been our practice to publish a full schedule of when we expect to be processing ballots, but we have to be flexible in order to get the ballots processed in a timely manner. We may have to adjust the schedule for reasons such as turnout being higher or lower than expected, equipment malfunctions, or employees being sick or otherwise unavailable. Because the process is not totally predictable, schedule changes may be required and the state’s election laws and regulations allow that flexibility (see WAC 434-250-110 and WAC 434-261-020).

During the recent election we did have to modify the schedule and, because of a miscommunication, no observer was present on one processing day. Immediately following that occasion, we established a notification policy that should prevent that from happening again. But official observers are not the only safeguard of the integrity of the election. Our election team is made up of Democrats and Republicans who function as an advisory team during ballot processing. Their job description includes the requirement that they inform me of any concerns they have about the election process. Our election workers are experienced, dedicated and highly professional; they are our best observers.

Ballot drop boxes are another important part of our election process; they are required by law in vote-by-mail counties (WAC 434-250-320). Ballot drop boxes are always emptied by at least two county employees, and the sealed ballots are deposited in locked bags, with the key to the lock dropped into the ballot bag prior to locking. State Law does not require observers to be present at drop box pickups (WAC 434-250-100), nor does it require that parties be notified of pickup times. However, for the past two elections, we have been fortunate to have the Sheriff and one or more deputies present for all pre-election day ballot box pickups.

Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, and safeguarding them is my highest responsibility. It is a responsibility I take seriously.

F. Milene Henley

San Juan County Auditor