Phil Huprich, of Batavia Township, checked in to vote during the Nov. 4 election. From left are Judy Wood and Huprich.

Phil Huprich, of Batavia Township, checked in to vote during the Nov. 4 election. From left are Judy Wood and Huprich.
By Kristin Rover
Sun staff

Just 37.97 percent, 50,805 out of 133,802 of Clermont County registered voters, cast ballots Nov. 4, before provisional ballots were counted.

Clermont County Board of Elections Director Judy Miller said the turnout was lower than similar general elections.

She said 49 percent of voters cast a ballot in the similar general election four years ago.

“We should have tracked at least that much,” Miller said about this year’s general election. “The voter turnout was way off.”

Miller said she believes the fact that there were less issues on the ballot had something to do with it.

“We didn’t have any issues that brought people out,” Miller said. “This helps prove that in non-presidential years, issues bring out voters.”

Last year, which was a presidential election, Miller said 73 percent of voters turned out to vote.

She said this year’s primary election, only 12.97 percent of voters cast ballots.

Miller said state-wide the turnout was 39.99 percent, which she said will likely just over 40 percent when provisional ballots are counted.

“It was low state-wide,” Miller said.

Miller said the Franklin Township cemetery levy is the only potential recount after the election, but that may change after provisional ballots are counted.

“There are 24 provisionals in Franklin Township,” Miller said. “Right now it is failing 425-427.”

She said once provisionals are counted they will be able to determine if there will be a recount.

Despite the lower-than-normal turnout, Miller said everything went smoothly on election day.

“I think we were one of the earlier counties done,” Miller said. “Every time we are getting it down to a very organized system. We have great poll workers out there.”

Miller said they are always looking for individuals who want to be poll workers in the county. She said they can contact the office for more information.

Miller said the board of elections will meet to open the certification Nov. 17 and will issue official election results at 10 a.m. Nov. 25.

For more information about the election visit www.clermontelections.org or call (513) 732-7275