Albemarle reports steady early voting; board finalizes election‑night staffing and procedures

On April 9 Albemarle County election staff updated the Electoral Board on early voting, curbside operations, central absentee processing (CAP) and election‑night plans.

Staff reported 10,529 early voters as of the most recent count and noted a 34‑day average of about 539 per day; one recent day recorded 10,526 votes. Curbside voting use has increased in recent years and staff implemented a visible sign and a short curbside process that board members said "is working"; the office also adjusted how ADA door openers are used to reduce wear on facilities equipment while still accommodating voters with mobility needs.

On CAP and mail ballots, staff said roughly 4,160 ballots were prepared for CAP with 4,329 mail ballots received (some returned undeliverable) and that pre‑processing teams are actively working on mail‑ballot processing. The board discussed how CAP counts align with precinct check‑ins and considered Dropbox and drop‑off behavior when interpreting CAP figures.

The board reviewed election‑night staffing and warehouse operations: after polls close, call‑in results are recorded from the Registrar's office while the warehouse receives precinct materials and ballots; staff described staging stations for returning poll pads, uploading voter credits and processing precinct envelopes. Members emphasized cross‑training so board members and staff can assist in the warehouse and asked that staff prepare chief call‑in sheets and last‑minute instructions that clarify observer permissions and reconciliation procedures.

The board scheduled the canvass/provisional meeting for April 22, 2026 at noon and noted that provisional processing rooms will have restricted access (one party observer per party allowed) while other canvass activities will be open to the public. The board also approved nine new officers of election and amendments to the chiefs/assistant chiefs lists during post‑closed‑session business.

Next steps: staff will circulate last‑minute instructions clarifying observer conduct, complete CAP pre‑processing, post schedules for any special refeed or testing events, and provide the board with a revised training and staffing schedule ahead of election day.