Lacey proclaims National Voter Registration Day, joins ‘Thurston County Urge your Neighbors to Vote’ challenge

Lacey has officially proclaimed September 19 of this year as National Voter Registration Day.

The Lacey City Council said it encourages all eligible community members to register to vote, to vote when they receive the ballot, and to encourage others to vote.

“Lacey is committed to strengthening democracy by encouraging voter registration and increasing participation in all elections,” the council’s proclamation read.

“The strength of our democracy depends on the willingness of our community members to participate by choosing those who will lead us and by voicing their opinions on important matters that will come before the voters,” it added.

Thurston County Elections Manager Tillie Naputi-Pullar, who joined the council meeting on Thursday, September 7, said their biggest goal is voter registration and to reach the young community.

Naputi-Pullar reported that only about 70% of the region’s 18 to 24-year-olds are registered voters, compared to the over 90% of other age groups.

She announced that same-day registration is now available and community members aged 16 and 17 can now pre-register to vote.

“We are challenging frequent voters to lend their knowledge to encourage those that don't vote, often bridging the gap to create a more informed electorate,” said Naputi-Pullar.

‘Thurston County Urge your Neighbors to Vote’ challenge

Lacey & Hawks Prairie Timberland Libraries Manager Holly Paxson also joined the meeting to announce that libraries throughout Thurston County will carry “ballot party kits” that citizens can use to host their own events and encourage their friends and neighbors to vote.

Paxson said the participation of voters serves as an entry to the “Thurston County Urge your Neighbors to Vote” challenge, which will be launched in October. The jurisdiction with the most participants per registered voter will win.

“Libraries are essential tools in empowering informed voters, ensuring that our democracy thrives through knowledgeable and engaged citizens,” said Paxson.