COMMISSION STICKS TO OPTICAL SCANNERS FOR PAPER BALLOTS

(10/13/2005)

The Calhoun Commission stuck to paper ballots counted by an optical ballot scanner, considering what might have been a negative reaction by seniors to changing to high-tech touch-screen computer voting. The Optical Scanner, which has been used by Calhoun for several years, is a proven system which is in use by a couple dozen WV counties. While critical concern has been expressed around the US regarding the touch-screen system, West Virginia has mandated the system used in the Mountain State leave a paper trail. But touch-screen computers for voting will still be placed at all Calhoun precincts, because they are equipped to assist voters who are visually or hearing handicapped. The federal government is paying for the entire system. During the brief special session yesterday, the commission also approved to provide phone answering services at Calhoun Control for the West Virginia State Police. Commission President Larry McCallister said "This is a trial run to see how it will affect the 911 operation."

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