Jill Bergman
Voting for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially with the flood of information coming your way. From understanding the registration process to figuring out where to cast your ballot, there are plenty of details that might seem confusing. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about voting in Routt County. Whether you’re a first-time voter or just need a refresher, this post will walk you through the essentials so you can confidently make your voice heard in the upcoming election.
How to vote
1. Register to vote or check your registration
You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. Already registered? It’s a good idea to double-check that your information is up to date, especially if you’ve recently moved or changed your name. In Routt County, you can quickly check or update your registration online through the Colorado Secretary of State’s website. The deadline for online voter registration is October 28. You can still register in-person all the way through election day, but you will have to cast your ballot at the same time.
2. See what’s on your ballot
Before voting, it’s important to know what’s on your ballot. This includes candidates for various offices and any local or state measures. Being informed about what’s on the ballot helps you make decisions that reflect your values and priorities. See resources for learning about candidates and ballot measures below.
3. Cast your vote by mail, drop box, or in-person
Depending on your preference, you can send your ballot by mail, drop it off at an official ballot drop box, or vote in-person. Be sure to follow all instructions for your chosen method, such as signing the envelope or providing identification if required. A valid ID is required for in-person voting! Cast your vote before 7 p.m. November 5.
In-person polling locations (according to Routt County Elections webpage):
Routt County Public Health & Human Services Community Room
135 6th St., Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Monday-Friday, Oct. 21- Nov. 4, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Hayden Town Hall
178 W. Jefferson Ave., Hayden, CO 81639
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Oak Creek Town Hall
129 Nancy Crawford Blvd., Oak Creek, CO 80467
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Drop boxes:
- 522 Lincoln Ave. (behind Historic Courthouse, open 24 hours)
- 2025 Shield Dr. (open 24 hours)
- Town of Hayden Town Hall – 178 W Jefferson Ave., Hayden
- Town of Oak Creek Town Hall – 129 Nancy Crawford Blvd., Oak Creek
- Town of Yampa Town Hall – 101 Main St., Yampa
- Clark Store – 54175 RCR 129, Clark
Researching your decisions
Do your research! While single sources like news outlets and online guides are helpful, it’s important to look at multiple unbiased and reliable sources when making decisions about ballot measures and candidates. Take the time to consider various perspectives before making a decision. Remember, not everything you read online is fully accurate, so it’s always smart to approach sources with a critical eye.
Local Resources:
Yampa Valley Bugle: A local news source that has up to date information about local campaigns.
Routt County Commissioner Candidate Forum: Hosted in partnership between the Steamboat Pilot & Today, Altitude Realtors, Routt County Republicans and Routt County Democrats.
YVSC’s Candidate Sustainability Forum: Hosted by Yampa Valley Sustainability Council, this forum poses questions to each candidate in relation to sustainability topics sent in from community members and other environmental organizations.
Other News Sources and Voting Information:
Colorado Voter Guide by The Colorado Sun
League of Women Voters Colorado
Routt County Commissioners Information
Brent Romick (Republican – District 1):
Angelica Salinas (Democrat – District 1):
Tracy Lawton (Republican – District 2):
Tim Redmond (Democrat – District 2):
Colorado House District 26 Information
Nathan Butler (Republican):
Meghan Lukens (Democrat):
Want to get involved?
Getting involved in elections goes beyond just voting — you can make a bigger impact by participating in efforts like canvassing, phone banking, or volunteering at polling locations. Canvassing allows you to talk directly with voters in your community, answering questions and encouraging them to participate in the election. You can do this by visiting your political party’s website or contacting the office of a candidate you support. Other options include helping with voter registration drives or working at a local election office. These efforts help ensure a smooth election process and empower more people to have their voices heard.
Need more information? Visit Vote.org See What’s On Your Ballot, a site where voters can check registration, find polling locations, and see what’s on their ballot.
FAQs about voting?: Visit here for more information on your ballot in Routt County.
Other helpful voting websites:
Erika Sexton, YVSC Community Engagement Intern | 23 October 2024
