Charlotte County supervisor highlights new hurricane‑resistant warehouse to secure election equipment

Leah, Charlotte Countys supervisor of elections, said the office has a new warehouse to store and stage election equipment that is built to withstand hurricanes and speed election preparations. The facility, funded through the countys 1% optional sales tax, sits next to the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office, which the supervisor said will help with logistics and security during elections.

"This building is a directreflection of the collaboration between taxpayers for the 1% optional sales tax, the Board of County Commissioners and our office," Leah said, describing the structure as part of a long‑range plan to ensure the safety, security and resiliency of election operations. She added, "the biggest thing for us also is also hurricane proof and ready so voters never have to worry about their election equipment or readying for elections during any kinds of inclement weather."

Leah told CCTV News You Can Use that the warehouse will allow staff to stage and prepare equipment for upcoming elections and keep supplies protected from storms. She said the prior facility on Airport Road had "reached the end of [its] life cycle," had withstood multiple hurricanes and was demolished, forcing the office to operate temporarily until the new site was ready.

On locating the warehouse adjacent to the sheriffs office, Leah said the proximity improves daily coordination: "we partner with them often ... for every election. They help to ensure logistics and safety and security of the election. So, to be next door... anything we need, just knock." She added that both offices will continue to follow established security protocols.

The supervisor expressed gratitude to county voters and officials for supporting the project through the optional sales tax, calling it part of the countys efforts to deliver on public safety and election integrity. The office expects to use the facility for staging and protecting equipment for future elections.

For CCTV News You Can Use, Elizabeth Sporillo reported.