Ballots for Nov. 4 general election mailed later this week

Snohomish County will begin mailing ballots for the Nov. 4 General Election on Oct. 16, reaching around 530,000 registered voters. The ballot features local races, including elections for the county council, municipal court judge, and a statewide measure. Voters must register or update their registration by Oct.

27 to participate in the election. County Auditor Garth Fell highlighted the significant influence of local elections on daily life, urging voters to read the pamphlets and research candidates early. A local voters' pamphlet has already been distributed, containing candidate information, while the Secretary of State's office has mailed a separate pamphlet for statewide measures. Voters can return ballots through the mail or at 35 drop box locations, which are open 24/7 until 8 p. m.

on Election Day. To ensure ballots are counted, the U. S. Postal Service recommends mailing them at least a week in advance. This election also marks the return of the County Charter Review Commission, with voters selecting three members from each council district.