Denver clerk saves $100K by posting ballot booklet online

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About a week ago, Denverites hauled a massive state election booklet out of their mailboxes. But they won’t find a similar booklet for Denver elections unless they go looking for it.

Clerk and Recorder Paul Lopez said Tuesday his office saved $100,000 by not publishing the booklet. The state booklet, which features 14 ballot measures and 26 judges up for approval, exceeded 200 pages. The ballot for Denver will contain a dozen questions and initiatives, according to the city's election website. On top of that, voters must choose candidates for President and other federal and state races.

“This book is thick,” Lopez said during the council’s Finance and Governance Committee meeting. “It’s a semi of paper.” Council member Sarah Parady asked whether voters can have a booklet mailed to them if they request it. Lopez said yes and noted the booklet also will be posted online and at voting centers and libraries.

Council member Flor Alvidrez said she is disappointed the election booklet will not be published for everyone. She wants to make sure the word gets out that it will only be printed online this year and in limited locations. Lopez said he does not expect he will receive many requests for the booklets.

Voting will be safe and secure, Lopez said

Lopez said voting in Denver will be safe and secure. “The threats against our offices and against election officials are very, very real,” Lopez said. “And I will be very clear with you about that and up front and honest. We take them very seriously. As the clerk and recorder it’s my job to take them seriously.”

Lopez said his office has been working the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, and Denver police to keep the election safe. “This isn’t our first rodeo with a presidential election and the kind of threats we face.”

Bipartisanship a must

The elections are conducted in a bipartisan manner, Lopez said. He shared the story of two election judges who had their picture taken working side by side. One was Democrat, one was Republican. One was Black, one was white, and they both were wearing their veteran hats. “It’s actually pretty legit and I am going to send you this picture,” Lopez told the council.

Additional information

Lopez directed further questions to DenverVotes.Org. There, residents can:

· Sign up for a newsletter.

· See sample ballots in multiple languages.

· Get the facts and help combat misinformation.

· Local ballot boxes and polling centers (although most people will vote by mail).

· Learn about issues and candidates.