Commission discusses cost of mail‑in ballots vs. regular election, stresses impartial voter outreach

Commissioners in Boynton Beach debated whether to conduct March referendums as a mail‑in ballot election or hold a regular in‑person election, focusing on cost and turnout.

City staff provided cost estimates: a mail‑in option was estimated at about $480,000 while a regular election with all precincts open was estimated at roughly $80,000. Commissioners questioned the return rate for mail ballots and argued that many mailed ballots would not be returned, making the cost per returned ballot high.

Several commissioners urged the city to plan impartial voter education and outreach — including social media, newsletters and targeted messaging — to maximize turnout if the commission selects the less expensive in‑person election. Staff agreed to send ballot language and deadlines to commissioners for review in case tweaks are needed before final action.

Candace (staff) provided the cost estimates and offered to circulate deadlines for voter registration and mail‑in request windows. Commissioners emphasized nonpartisan outreach and the usual 10‑day to 2‑week pre‑election push to remind voters.

Next steps: staff will circulate ballot language and deadlines; the commission will decide whether to proceed with mail‑in ballots or a regular election after reviewing costs and outreach plans.