Time is running out for Ward 1 Washington residents wanting a mailed absentee ballot for the April 5th special election, while an event to learn more about the city council candidates is being held next week.

The Iowa Legislature shortened absentee voting time in 2021, including that voters must now send a mailed ballot request at least 15 days before an election, earlier than the previous 11 day law. This means voters must submit a request to the Washington County Auditor’s office by 5 p.m. Monday, March 21st in order to receive a mailed ballot. Absentee voting in person is also an option now through April 4th at the auditor’s office, though the period to vote absentee in person or by mail was also shortened from 29 days to 20 before Election Day.

Voters with mailed ballots are advised not to hold onto them too long, because they now must be received by the auditor by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Prior to the legislature’s law changes mailed ballots were accepted by noon the Monday following the election as long as they were postmarked by Election Day. Bethany Vittetoe Glinsmann and Deran DeLong are both on the ballot for the council seat to represent the northwest ward of Washington through 2023. The Washington Chamber of Commerce is hosting a candidate forum from 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23rd in the city hall council chambers.