There has been some confusion about voter registration leading up to the Alberta provincial election.
Since the election was called, there have been social media posts regarding voter pre-registration. A post circulated stating preregistration was required. This was compounded by a glitch in the Elections Alberta website that caused concerns. Drumheller-Stettler Returning Officer Janice Hoover says residents do not have to preregister and chances are most voters are already on the list.
“If people were enumerated, they are on the list for sure. If they voted before, there is a very good chance they are on the list,” she said. “So really you should be concerned about registering if you weren’t enumerated or you have never voted before.”
She says residents can call to see if they are registered. Residents can also go to www.elections.ab.ca to register or to check if they are registered.
“I don’t honestly know how (the online tool) is working today, they were getting so many enquires earlier this week they weren’t able to keep up,” she said Friday. March 29. “There is a lot of interest because of all the messaging that has gone out on Facebook has caused some concern for electors.”
Voters are also able to register at the polling station at advanced polls or on the day of the election. Voters are required to have one piece of government-issued identification such as a drivers license with your current address. If you do not have government identification, you will need two pieces of authorized identification. Both must have your name and one must have your current physical address. A full list of accepted identification is available at elections.ab.ca
“Our responsibility is to give people the opportunity to vote and we are certainly working towards that,” said Hoover. “This year Elections Alberta has really tried to make it easier because there is an extra day of the advanced poll, and we are going to be using technology at those advanced polls, so we are really optimistic it is going to make it easier for people.”
Call 587-207-5127 to reach the Returning Officer’s office.
