Colorado Secretary of State’s Office to Provide Funding for Counties for Sunday Voting

Denver, September 24, 2020 – The Colorado Secretary of State’s office today announced it will be providing funding for any county that elects to open Voter Service and Polling Centers (VSPCs) the Sunday before Election Day. Colorado state law requires early voting centers to be open beginning October 19, but excludes mandatory openings of voting centers on Sundays. This funding for Sunday voting is part of an initiative spearheaded by Secretary of State Jena Griswold to increase voting access.

“As Secretary of State, I have worked to increase voting access for Coloradans,” said Secretary Griswold. “Early voting options are key to accessible elections, and for a presidential election during a pandemic, it’s important to provide Coloradans with many options to be able to cast their ballot and make their voice heard.”

Under the leadership of Clerk & Recorder Josh Zygielbaum, Adams County is the first county to choose to open a Voter Service and Polling Center in Aurora the Sunday before the election.

“As the Adams County Clerk and an Elections Official, I see access to voting as an integral part of the American process,” said Clerk Zygielbaum. “I’m proud to partner with the Secretary of State’s office, bipartisan organizations, and members of the community to expand the voting experience.”

The VSPC located at Moorhead Recreation Center on 2390 Havana St. in Aurora will open on Sunday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in addition to normal hours of operation, which begin on October 19. The extra day is designed to encourage voters to get their ballots in early. 

"The NAACP applauds Adams County and the Secretary of State for moving toward opening a VSPC on Sundays,” said Rosemary Lytle, State President, NAACP CO-MT-WY. “Early and flexible voting is a critical tool for breaking down barriers to the ballot box and improving civic engagement. When people — especially in a pandemic — can decide when and where is best for them to vote, it increases voter participation, especially in traditionally disenfranchised communities. A demanding job or inflexible hours shouldn't be a barrier. And, no one should have to choose between voting and keeping their job."

“Citizens who capitalize on their right to vote and make their voice heard will determine the 2020 election outcome and the course of issues crucial to the future of our state and local Adams County communities,” said Tom Stone, Chair of the Adams County Regional Economic Partnership.  “We support Adams County opening a Voter Service and Polling Center on the Sunday before Election Day and applaud the increased visibility and access it will provide voters.”

Ballots will be mailed to all active registered voters beginning on October 9. Expenses for keeping VSPCs open an extra day will be paid by the Secretary of State’s office out of federal CARES Act funding for elections.      

For more information, please visit www.GoVoteColorado.gov or www.AdamsVotes.com.