Direct Balloting for 2024 Election Now Underway in Olmsted County

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- Early absentee in-person voting is now underway ahead of the Nov. 5 election date in the Rochester area and throughout Minnesota. 

Read More: Rochester Primary Election Results 

The process involves voters submitting their ballots directly into a tabulator or using absentee envelopes at the Olmsted County Elections Office. 

Voters can now insert their completed ballots into the vote tabulation machine at the Olmsted County Elections Office in southeast Rochester. Direct balloting at City Hall in Downtown Rochester is set to begin on October 29. 

Early voters have until Nov. 4 to cast ballots via direct balloting at both locations. 

Read More: Early Voting Underway in Minnesota 

Absentee voting by mail is also underway. Voters choosing the option will need a witness who was either a registered Minnesota voter or a notary and ballots must be received by election day to be counted. 

Completed absentee ballots can be returned by mail or dropped off at the Olmsted County Elections Office at the County campus in southeast Rochester.

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What's on the Ballot in Rochester, MN for the 2024 Election?

Rochester area voters will be asked to decide on several local races. Four seats are up for election this year, including the Rochester City Council President.

Read More: Rochester Mayor Endorses Candidate for City Council President 

Five seats on the Olmsted County Board are up for this year’s election. The 2024 ballot also includes three Rochester School Board races. 

The Rochester Public School District is also seeking voter approval for a $19.4 million dollar property tax increase to support local school operations starting in the 2025-2026 school year and remaining in effect for 10 years. 

Read More: Rochester School Board Reveals Plans if Referendum Fails 

The County Elections Office will also be open on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM until the day before the election for in-person absentee voting.

The office will also be open on Saturdays, October 26 and November 2, along with Sunday, November 3 from 9 AM to 3 PM for absentee voting in person.

The office will also be open until 7 PM on Tuesday, October 29. For hours, voting locations and more information, Olmsted County website and the Minnesota Secretary of State website.