Kent-area voters in the Aug. 3 primary can use a new ballot box placed at the Panther Lake Library, 20500 108th Ave. SE.

King County Elections, King County Library System (KCLS) and County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove were at the library July 15 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the same day that drop boxes opened for ballots across the county. King County Elections mailed ballots on July 14.

The ballot drop box was moved from its previous location at Kentridge High School to ensure 24-hour access during the voting period. The new location at the Kent Panther Lake Library is accessible to voters at all hours with free and convenient parking.

“Access to voting is our number one priority at King County Elections,” said Elections Director Julie Wise in a news release. “Democracy works best when all voices are heard and drop boxes play an important role in making sure that all King County voters can speak up for themselves and their communities.”

In King County, 96% of registered voters live within a 3-mile radius of a drop box location. In the 2020 presidential election, about 75% of ballots were cast via drop box. KCLS hosts ballot drop boxes at many libraries across the county. Voters can find a library drop box location near them and more information about how to stay informed at kcls.org/elections.

“The King County Library System supports an active and engaged electorate,” stated KCLS executive director Lisa Rosenblum. “We have been proud to partner with King County Elections to host 22 ballot drop boxes, and are excited to see the 23rd one installed at the Kent Panther Lake Library.”

“King County undoubtedly has some of the best elections in the country and our shared commitment to access plays no small role in that,” Upthegrove said. “Our elections team works tirelessly to ensure that every vote can be counted and every voice heard, and I’m happy to support them in that work.”