“This new online opportunity really addresses one of our Elections Department’s primary responsibilities,” Carney said. “Anything we can do to make it easier for our residents to participate in this process is a great thing. This new system will make it very convenient to register, particularly for our younger Delawareans, most of whom know their way around a computer very well.”
The online form is simple to use and provides Elections Department staff with more accurate information because it eliminates the difficulties sometimes experienced when applications are hand-written.
The new system does require that the applicant for registration print a copy of the registration form, sign it, and mail or deliver it to an Elections office before the registration process is fully complete.
In addition to allowing eligible Delawareans to apply to register to vote for the first time, the new system can also be used by any registered voters who wish to update their voter information. For example, one can record a change in address, a change of name, a change in party affiliation or a change of any other recorded information.
“It is the goal of our office to make available to the citizens of Delaware who are unable to register to vote because of their work schedule, disability or other reasons, a more convenient process” said Calio. ”With the introduction of this website anyone with access to a computer can now register online and become eligible to vote.”
During the event, two students from the Caesar Rodney High School, Tara Lynae Zentz, and Ashley Kiger, completed their voter registration applications.
Emer Ingeniero, a member of the DTI staff and a developer of the computer application, also registered to vote for the first time as a U.S. citizen.
Ingeniero received his U.S. citizenship on April 6, 2006 and took the opportunity to use the process that he had helped to develop.
The development of computer application that provides online registration was a joint effort between Department of Elections staff, county elections officials and the Department of Technology and Information.
DTI Secretary Thomas Jarrett said, “I am proud of the efforts of our staff and the Elections staff to make this new convenient service available for Delawareans. It is another example of the great teamwork that takes place within state government to bring e-government services to our customers.”
Members of the online voter registration team include Randy Goodlett, Pat Murray and Joyce Wright, all of Kent County.
To register online, go to: www.state.de.us/election/.
Quelle: The Dover Post, 19.04.2006
