The newly-formed Peoria County Board of Election Commissioners says so far, it hasn’t had to make any big changes in preparation for Thursday’s special election in the 18th Congressional District.
Prior to May, elections were handled by both the County Clerk’s office and the City Election commission.
Commission Executive Director Tom Bride says the biggest changes facing the county-wide elections are electronic poll books installed at all locations and day-of registration. The poll books assist voting officials with ID verification and ensure voters arrive at the correct polling location. Same-day registration is also available at polling locations.
Bride says he anticipates an increase in online voter registration, particularly in the upcoming presidential election.
Peoria County Chief Finance Officer Eric Dubrowski estimates the special election to fill former Rep. Aaron Schock's seat will cost the county nearly $150,000.