County forming 2 voting committees

People interested in serving on two advisory committees on voting are being sought, according to Rebecca Martinez, Madera County clerk-recorder and registrar of voters.

One is the Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee and the other is the Language Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Martinez said a formation meeting of volunteers would be held Aug. 9 at the County Government Center.

“Elections in Madera County have always been a very open, transparent and community-based process,” said Martinez. “The formation of the VAAC and LAAC will further my commitment to involving the community in the planning, preparation, administration and review of all elections.”

Martinez said the purpose of the Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee is twofold: (1) To provide community members a forum to voice concerns and make recommendations on ways to improve the electoral process for voters with disabilities and elderly voters; and (2) To allow members of the community to advise and assist the registrar of voters regarding access to the electoral process for voters with disabilities and elderly voters.

The purpose of the Language Accessibility Advisory Committee, Martinez said, is to: (1) provide community members a forum to voice concerns and make recommendations on ways to improve the electoral process for voters with limited English proficiency, and (2) to allow members of the community to advise and assist the registrar of voters regarding access to the electoral process for voters with limited English proficiency.

“Ensuring that all eligible voters are able to participate in our democracy is paramount,” stated Martinez. “I welcome the opportunity to hear from those in our community who share in my mission of ensuring that every registered voter has the opportunity to vote.”

The VAAC formation meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Aug. 9 at in the Board of Supervisors Chambers on the first floor of the County Government Center, 200 W. 4th St. in Madera. The LAAC formation meeting will be held immediately following at 11 a.m.

If you would like to participate in the meetings or would like further information, please contact the Madera County Elections Division toll free at 1-800-435-0509.