The polls have been open in Washoe County for over five hours and “everything is running smoothly,” according to Washoe County Registrar of Voters Dan Burk.

“We’ve very happy with what we’re seeing so far,” reported Burk. “Voters are being very cooperative and helpful as our poll workers assist them with voting. Things really are going very well at this point.”

The Registrar’s office reminds voters that if they haven’t turned in their completed absentee ballot yet, they must do so by 7:00 p.m. today at the Registrar’s Office located at the Washoe County Administrative Complex at 9th & Wells in Reno. Polling locations cannot accept absentee ballots, although a voter may choose to surrender his ballot at his assigned polling place and vote electronically. “Washoe County is committed to ensuring that their voting experience is as streamlined and positive as possible,” says Registrar of Voters Dan Burk.

Poll Watchers: All registered voters can expect to see “poll watchers” when they come to vote. Poll watchers represent the political parties, candidates and advocacy groups and are required to conduct themselves consistent with the guidelines established by the Nevada Secretary of State’s Office.

Political Activity: By state law, any political activity must occur at least 100 feet from the polling place entrance. This measurement will be marked off at each polling location.

The Results: The Secretary of State has ruled that results cannot be posted until after all polling places in the state have been closed. After the Secretary of State consents to their release, tallied results will be posted on Washoe County’s website (www.washoecounty.us); a link on the front page will take the viewer to the “Results Page.” A hard copy will also be provided to those waiting in the Registrar’s Office for such information. Throughout the evening of September 13th results will be updated using the County’s stand-alone tabulation system, a report will be generated and made available within minutes to the public via this website.

For more information about the 2011 Special Election, visit: www.washoecounty.us/voters or call (775) 328-3670.