Clayton County voters will have more choices and convenience when they cast their ballots for the 2024 elections. The county commissioners approved a plan to increase the number of early voting sites and dates, as well as extend the hours of operation.
Early voting sites increased from four to seven
The county currently has four early voting sites: the elections office, the Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center, the Virginia Burton Gray Recreation Center, and the South Clayton Recreation Center. The commissioners voted to add three more locations: the Frank Bailey Senior Center, the J. Charley Griswell Senior Center, and the Forest Park Library.
The new sites will be available for the 2024 presidential preference primary, the 2024 general primary, and the 2024 general election. The commissioners also approved a contract with the Clayton County Library System to use the Forest Park Library as an early voting site for the next four years.
The county elections director, Shauna Dozier, said the additional sites will help reduce wait times and improve accessibility for voters. She said the county has seen a steady increase in early voting turnout over the years, especially during the 2020 elections.
“We had record-breaking numbers in 2020, and we anticipate that trend to continue,” Dozier said. “We want to make sure that we have enough capacity to serve our voters and give them the best experience possible.”
Early voting dates and hours extended
The commissioners also approved a plan to extend the early voting dates and hours for the 2024 elections. The plan includes the following changes:
- Early voting will start on the fourth Monday before each election, instead of the third Monday.
- Early voting will end on the Friday before each election, instead of the Saturday.
- Early voting will be available from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, instead of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Early voting will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, instead of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Early voting will be available from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, instead of not being available at all.
The extended dates and hours will provide more flexibility and convenience for voters, especially those who work during the day or have other obligations. The plan also aligns with the state law that requires early voting to be available for at least one Saturday and one Sunday during each election cycle.
The county commissioners praised the plan and thanked the elections staff for their hard work and dedication. They said the plan will enhance the county’s reputation as a leader in voter engagement and participation.
“We are proud of our elections department and the services they provide to our citizens,” Commissioner DeMont Davis said. “We want to make sure that every eligible voter in Clayton County has the opportunity to exercise their right to vote and have their voice heard.”
