By Sophia Misle

Johnson County voters will determine their local government representatives on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Local offices on the general election ballot include mayor, city council, school board members, Johnson County Community College trustees and Water District No. 1. The individuals elected to these nonpartisan positions are responsible for helping to improve the social, economic and educational aspects of their communities.

A full list of candidates and additional election information is available by visiting jocoelection.org.
There are three ways to vote:

• Advance ballot by mail.
• Early in-person voting.
• In-person voting on Election Day at your assigned polling place

Do I need ID to vote?

Yes. State law requires voters to show photographic identification when voting in person. Exemptions exist for individuals 65 years of age or older or individuals whose religious beliefs prohibit photographic identification. More details on photo ID requirements can be found at sos.ks.gov or by calling 913-715-6800.

I have a permanent illness or disability. How can I make my vote count?

Kansans with a permanent illness or disability can apply for permanent advance voting status at jocoelection.org/advance-voting.

If you choose to vote in person, all voting locations are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and each ballot-marking device is compliant with the Help America Vote Act. Voters with disabilities may also request assistance from a friend, family member, companion or election worker.

Here are important 2023 general election dates:

• Saturday, Oct. 28 – Advance voting in person begins. A full list of advance voting locations and hours can be found on the Johnson County Election Office’s website (jocoelection.org). Voters can cast their ballot at any location and no application is required.
• Tuesday, Oct. 31 – Last day to apply for an advance ballot by mail. Any registered voter can apply to vote by mail in any election with no reason required. You must apply for each election. Registered voters who have a permanent illness or physical disability can apply for permanent advance voting status. You can find the applications on jocoelection.org or at the Johnson County Election Office, 2101 E. Kansas City Rd., Olathe. 
• Monday, Nov. 6 – Advance voting closes at noon.
• Tuesday, Nov. 7 – General Election Day.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and voters must be in line by 7 p.m. to cast a ballot. Find your assigned polling site on jocoelection.org/voterview.

Ballot drop boxes will also close at 7 p.m. Advance ballots by mail must be postmarked on or before Election Day (Nov. 7).

Sophia Misle is the communications coordinator at the Johnson County Election Office.