A printing error is impacting 905 registered voters in Kent County’s Plainfield Township.
Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons says ballots were proofread and were correct when sent to the printer. But that’s where an incorrect color-coding was added to ballots resulting in Precinct 9B ballots being sent out to Precinct 9A voters.
“The error impacted approximately 3% of all the registered voters in Plainfield Township. None of the military or overseas ballots that were issued were affected, and all other ballots issued to Plainfield Township voters are correct.”
Posthumus Lyons says the ballots have been reprinted and are being mailed Friday.
“All affected voters will receive the right ballot immediately so they can cast them well ahead of election day and I want to be very clear to all voters that this situation will not allow anyone to vote twice.”
The incorrect ballots have been officially spoiled and will not count if sent in.
Township election officials will directly contact anyone who returns a vote on a spoiled ballot so a correct one can be issued.
The clerk says the error affects a small number of voters, but she’s determined to inform the public about any election issues that arise and what’s being done.
“Transparency is key to instilling public trust in elections.”
Voters with additional questions regarding the ballot process can contact the Kent County Clerk’s Office at clerk-register@kentcountymi.gov or (616) 632-7650.
