Jackson County clerk considering additional ballot drop box in Carbondale

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — Jackson County Clerk and Recorder Frank L. Byrd said he is evaluating the possible addition of a ballot drop box in Carbondale as part of efforts to improve voter access.

Byrd, who serves as the county’s election authority, said the review includes factors such as accessibility, geographic distribution, security requirements and available resources.

Officials noted Carbondale is the county’s largest municipality and serves a diverse population of voters, making access to voting options an important consideration.

“My responsibility is to ensure that every eligible voter has fair, secure and convenient access to participate in the electoral process,” Byrd said in a statement.

No decision has been made. Byrd said the review process will continue before determining whether to add a new drop box location.

The Jackson County Clerk and Recorder’s Office oversee elections, voter registration and the administration of voting systems in the county.