"Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting."

-Nanette L. Avery

This is usually the time of the year when people start asking “So, what do you do during off election years?”

It’s understandable how some might think after an election we don’t have a lot to focus on. But truthfully, the off season is where we do most of our work.

The seamless experience voters have on Election Day only comes from the effort we put in the other 364 days of the year. Updating voter registration records, training staff and Election Workers, cleaning and testing equipment, revising procedures, coding the election, preparing the ballot, renewing leases, and contacting community partners just to name a few!

A major part of the “off” year often is implementing new legislation. A bill can start off one way and end up very different by the time it’s signed into law. But it’s important to be aware of its potential impact from the start. We can easily see the major implications, but it’s often the trickle-down effects that will create the most work. What documents must be updated? What procedures have been impacted? Does it need to be added to our Election Worker training? How do we make the public aware of anything that may affect them directly? All these questions must be answered and more.

So, while casting a ballot may only take a few minutes, remember, that it takes months of dedication to ensure your experience is positive and your vote is secure and accurate. 

Chris

We're always looking for new ways to connect with our voters and make sure they are getting timely, accurate election information. That's why we're excited to announce that we've launched TextMyGov! Simply text "CLAYVOTES" to 91896 and opt-in to receive reminders about important election dates and voting info directly to your phone!

Every Vote Counts

On Tuesday, April 8, City of Green Cove Springs and City of Keystone Heights residents headed to the polls. Green Cove Springs had City Council Seat 5 to vote on, along with five Charter Amendments. In the City Council race, Darren Stutts won with 64.65% of the vote. For the Charter Amendments, four of the five were not passed. Charter Amendment 3, which allows the City Manager the authority to issue a local state of emergency declaration, was adopted with 65.62% of the vote.

Keystone Heights residents voted for City Council Seat 2. Dave Welch won that race with 51.63% of votes- a very close margin with just five votes separating him and his opponent! 

Behind the Scenes of Election Day

It takes an enormous amount of work to run an election. Here are just a few images of our team in action! Thank you to our Election Workers, volunteers, and staff- we couldn't do it without you! Your dedication makes a safe, accurate, efficient election a reality!

Election Worker Appreciation Luau

Our Election Workers ROCK! In March we celebrated ALL of our amazing Election Workers from the 2024 election cycle!

We enjoyed the beautiful weather in Spring Park with a fun luau theme, and we can't forget the delicious food! Supervisor Chambless took a few moments to express our gratitude for our Election Workers. It's only because of their dedication and professionalism that we continue our tradition of successful elections. Clay County is lucky to have such a fantastic group of people who care deeply about the elections process and are committed to serving their community.

Thank you again for all that you do, and we look forward to seeing you in 2026!

MST Training Lab

In April we conducted Municipal Super Tuesday Election Worker training! (Whew, try saying that three times fast)!

Election Worker Coordinator Sandy Keller gave an overview of the rules and processes, and then it was time for hands on training. Both our Election Workers and staff worked through various scenarios on the equipment to prep for Election Day. Sheriff Cook also stopped by to swear in our deputies and took a few minutes to speak to everyone. We always appreciate her time and dedication to our community.

Clay County Fair

April means it's time again for the Clay County Agricultural Fair! Eleven days packed full of fun, rides, music, and, of course, food! Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who spent time greeting visitors at our booth, helping register voters, and answering questions. We truly appreciate all that you do for our office!

Green Cove Springs Business League

Supervisor Chambless was invited to be a guest speaker at a monthly meeting for the Green Cove Springs Business League. He touched on the importance of local elections and the great impact they can have on citizens and businesses alike. Too often we hear "I only vote in the presidential election", but the repercussions from local elections will be felt far more deeply.

As Clay County business leaders their influence on our community is immense. Supervisor Chambless asked attendees to invest themselves in the process by voting and to encourage their family, friends, staff, and clients to participate in every election, every time.

Thank you to the Green Cove Springs Business League for the opportunity!

Citizenship Ceremony

In January, we were invited to a Naturalization Ceremony for 50 new American citizens at Green Cove Springs Junior High. The school partnered with the U.S. District Court and USCIS to host an incredible ceremony with Chief United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard presiding over. Student leaders participated alongside faculty and the student body, who witnessed a lesson in civics firsthand. The Elections Office was there not only in support of our new citizens, but to offer voter registration to all who were interested. What an honor to be a part of their amazing journey!

Clay Day

Kemie, Holly, and Heather, along with business leaders, community partners, and county officials visited the Florida State Capitol for Clay Day on April 23. It kicked off with a lively Southern Rock themed meet-and-greet at the Capitol rotunda. It was followed by a reception at the Florida Professional Firefighter Union Hall. Clay Day concluded the next morning after a legislative session with Representatives Sam Garrison and Judson Sapp, and Senator Jennifer Bradley.

Empty Bowls Luncheon

Supervisor Chambless lent a hand at the 20th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon on April 29. He and other volunteers helped serve a simple meal of soup and bread to community members, county leaders, artists, and others. The Empty Bowls Luncheon is the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary major fundraiser.

Local students from Clay County sculpted and painted each unique bowl- which served as a keepsake and reminder of those who struggle with hunger. There were also homemade baked goods for sale and a silent auction which included lots of beautiful gift baskets.

The Empty Bowls Luncheon raises money for the organization's food pantry and supports youth programs offered by Clay County Salvation Army. But even more than that, it strengthens our community, supports the schools and the students' creativity, celebrates delicious food, and educates the public about poverty.

VR Roundtable

In mid-April, Voter Services Manager Kemie Mahan, Voter Services Clerk Kayla O'Neal, and Election Services Manager Holly DePaul headed to Orlando to attend a round table discussion. They exchanged ideas and shared best practices with Florida election officials across the state.

Welcome Baby Chase!

On May 1, we threw a mini baby shower to celebrate Michelle and her baby boy! We spent some time catching up with one another and enjoyed some cake and snacks. We wish her and her family well- and can't wait to meet the newest member of our Elections family!

Happy birthday Heather- our lone January birthday!

Kayla, Phyllis, and Marcie all celebrate their birthdays in February- and Marcie and Kayla actually have the same birthday!

March is the month of Lynn and Magy's birthdays!

April belongs to Holly!