Because of its infrequency, voting is something many of us do not think about until it is once again that time of the year. We expect everything to be the same and to be able to roll in and vote. However, things can change, like the location of the Ferry Farm precinct this year and the change in Moncure Elementary’s address, and a little preparation can keep your ballot casting routine smooth. Voters in Stafford County have multiple resources for finding out important voting information.
A great place to start is the Virginia Department of Elections website at www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal. They have a Citizen Portal where you can either register to vote, check your voter registration status, update your voter record and apply for absentee voting. With a few keystrokes, you can find much information tailored only to you:
- The name of your polling place and address (Voters should note that due to renovation at Ferry Farm Elementary School, the polling place for the Ferry Farm Precinct has moved to Strong Tower Church, 234 Ferry Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405. As well, the Griffis District Precinct still votes at Anne E. Moncure Elementary School, but the school has moved to 120 Juggins Road, Stafford, VA 22554.)
- Detailed information on contacting the General Registrar
- Electoral Board members
- ADA compliant or accessible facility
General information may also be found on the Virginia Department of Elections website. Deadlines to register to vote are listed.
Voters should remember that there are deadlines to register to vote. All the deadlines for voting may be found on the Virginia Department of Elections website. As well, Virginia law requires all voters to provide an acceptable form of photo identification. The website lists all the acceptable forms of identification. And even if you forget your identification, you can cast a provisional ballot.
As always, you may ask questions in person, by phone or email. The Office of the General Registrar is located in the George L. Gordon, Jr., Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554. The phone is (540) 658-4000, and the email is registrar@staffordcountyva.gov.
