Election Administration Election Equipment Sustainability NACRC National Conference Friday July 15, 2011 Jack Arrowsmith Douglas County Clerk and Recorder

Sustainable Election Equipment Will we know it When we see it?

Are there characteristics that make something Sustainable? Despite differences, a number of common principles are embedded in most charters or action programs to achieve sustainable development, sustainability or sustainable prosperity. Dealing transparently and systemically with risk, uncertainty and irreversibility. Hargroves & Smith 2005 Ensuring appropriate valuation, appreciation and restoration of nature. Integration of environmental, social, human and economic goals in policies and activities. Equal opportunity and community participation/Sustainable community. Conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity. Ensuring inter-generational equity. Recognizing the global integration of localities. A commitment to best practice. No net loss of human capital or natural capital. The principle of continuous improvement. The need for good governance.

What’s Missing??? Who is Paying for it? And Can We Afford It?

Reality Check Even if Federal or State Funds can be secured, the reality is - much of the cost and implementation will fall on the shoulders of local government.

Should Vendors Embrace Sustainability??? Cell Phones Computers Stereo Equipment Today’s latest and greatest is tomorrows desk weight There is little history of this in the technology industry.

Has The Greater Good Been Replaced By Special Interest Groups?

So Who Is Driving the Process? Special Interest Groups English as a Second Language Communities Overseas and Military Voters Handicap Accessible Groups Politicians at every level Advocacy Groups of all kinds Secretaries of State National, State and Local Bureaucrats etc, etc, etc

In Addition Voter Choice Costs Money Colorado Allows: Permanent Mail-In Voter Status Early Voting in Primary and General Elections 7am to 7pm Election Day Voting Provisional Ballots Emergency Registration

How Do We Get The Genie Back In The Lamp??

Moving the Ball Down the field? Establish voter responsibility. Get out of the equipment business? Educate, Educate, Educate! Time, Money & Manpower Embrace Change