(a) Verifying the Ballots.
(1) In all systems, the first step is to make sure the precinct record showing the number of voters (the poll book) and the number of voted ballots (including both counted and provisional ballots) correspond.
(2) For paper ballots, count the actual voted and provisional ballots by hand (without examining them) and compare that total number to the number of signed poll slips.
(3) For electronically counted ballots, compare the number of signed poll slips to the total number of ballots tabulated plus the provisional ballots (these numbers will also appear on the precinct 'Statement of Ballots Used').
(4) For lever machines, compare the number of signed poll slips to the total number of voters on the return sheet plus the provisional ballots. If the numbers don't correspond, the board of canvassers must try to resolve the discrepancy.
The board of canvassers will also check to make sure the record of the number of provisional, spoiled and unused ballots, along with all voted ballots, corresponds to the total number of ballots.
(b) Verifying the Precinct Election Results. The board of canvassers checks to make sure the number of votes reported for each candidate corresponds to the other records of votes cast. In paper ballot systems, the votes for each candidate marked on the two tally sheets are compared to the votes reported on the certificate of returns. If they don't match, the board must try to determine where the discrepancy lies, without recounting the ballots. In lever machine systems, the counters on the voting machines must be examined and compared to the return sheets. If they don't match, the returns should be corrected to match the counters on the voting machines.
(Ord. 05-07. Passed 10-20-05.)