Residents and neighbors of the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribal lands will have greater access to voting resources in this year’s midterm elections thanks to a collaborative effort between the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office, tribal councils and the clerk and recorders of Montezuma and La Plata counties.

An initiative in advance of the 2020 election will continue this year. It will be the second election in which there will be a fully staffed voter service station on Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribal lands. Voters can register to vote and fill out a ballot in person at voter service centers during operating hours.

The voter service center located at the Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Election Day. The center at the Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Center will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday.

“This has enabled more Tribal Members to participate in state and federal elections, ensuring that the Ute people have a voice in the selection of state and federal elected officials,” said Ute Mountain Ute Chairman Manuel Heart in a news release. “The Tribe is proud to partner with the state of Colorado to ensure that all Colorado voters can participate in state and federal elections.”

La Plata County Clerk and Recorder Tiffany Lee said that while only 2% of voters typically cast a ballot in person, the additional center makes access that much easier. By opening the location on Friday, Lee said her staff also have an extra day or two to work out any kinks that arise.

In 2020, the Ignacio site was only open the Monday and Tuesday of election week.

“With Saturday, I’m hoping that’s going to help people that work (to vote),” Lee said.

Voters should return ballots at a designated drop box rather than placing them in the mail to ensure they arrive in time to be counted.

rschafir@durangoherald.com