Thousands of ballots tested in El Paso County before election

Thousands of El Paso County voters will receive election ballots in the mail next week.

After a few quiet months at the elections office, things are kicking up a notch.

“Today is a big day for us because we’re doing logic and accuracy testing, so voters know that our tests will be conducted correctly and accurately,” said Chuck Broerman, El Paso County clerk and recorder.

Nearly 40,000 ballots will go through the counting machines this week, to make sure votes are counted correctly.

“I think it’s important that everybody speak their mind. You can’t complain about something if you don’t do what it takes to make the change. Even if your choice isn’t chosen, your voice is still heard,” resident Dana Shaw said.

A total of 360,000 El Paso County voters will get ballots in the mail next week.

Broerman said ballot questions regarding taxes and marijuana usually draw in the most voters.

This year, one state item on the ballot includes both.

“I think certain topics bring out certain voters, so that remains to be seen, for what turns out for this election,” said Broerman.

Proposition BB asks voters to decide if almost $70 million should go back to taxpayers, or should be used for projects like school construction.

The El Paso County elections are on Nov. 3.