Is Your Vote Really Counted? Find Out Why April 28 Could Change Everything!

On April 28, 2026, all registered voters in San Juan County will have the opportunity to participate in a crucial special election. This election is particularly significant as it includes important measures affecting both the county and the newly formed Lopez Island Park and Recreation District.

The county's proposal seeks a regular property tax lid lift of $0.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This increase is designed to sustain essential public health, safety, and community services that many residents rely on. Funding is vital for maintaining the level of services that support daily life in the community.

In addition, the Lopez Island Park and Recreation District, which was established during the 2025 general election, is seeking a six-year levy of $0.23 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This funding aims to bolster the Lopez Island School District’s sports programs and enhance community access to school facilities for recreational use, thereby promoting healthier lifestyles and community engagement.

Voter participation is key, and residents are encouraged to take action. While the deadline for online and mail registration was April 20, voters still have the option to register in person at a county election office until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Anyone who has not received their ballot by April 15 should promptly contact the Elections Office for a replacement.

All ballots must be postmarked by April 28 or submitted to designated drop boxes or voting centers in Washington state by 8 p.m. on that same day. It’s essential for voters to be aware of the timeline to ensure their voices are heard.

Key Dates to Remember:

• April 7: Ballots mailed to registered voters.
• April 20: Deadline for new registrations and voter updates via online and mail.
• April 28: Special election day.
• May 8: Certification of election results.

For those unfamiliar with the registration process in Washington, it’s designed to be user-friendly. Voters can register online, by mail with a paper form, or directly at their county elections office. For residents wanting to check their registration status, they can visit VoteWA.gov or call the county elections office at 360-378-3357.

To qualify for voting in Washington, individuals must be:

• A citizen of the United States.
• A resident of Washington state.
• At least 18 years old (those aged 16 or 17 can register as future voters).
• Not disqualified from voting due to a court order.
• Not currently in prison for a felony conviction.

Importantly, Washington allows same-day registration. Voters who miss the online or mail registration deadline can still register in person at the Elections Office up to eight days before the election.

For those opting to vote by mail, it’s advisable to mail ballots at least a week before Election Day. If mailing on the day itself, voters should ensure their ballot is hand-stamped by the post office. It’s worth noting that San Juan County's mail is typically delivered to Seattle and processed the following day.

Ballots come with pre-paid postage, and voters can track the status of their mail-in ballots by logging into VoteWA.gov. To maintain security, official ballot boxes are sealed and monitored, ensuring the integrity of the voting process.

As the special election approaches, it’s clear that every vote will count. The proposed measures not only hold financial implications but also reflect community priorities in public health, safety, and recreational opportunities. Engaging in this electoral process allows residents to actively shape their community's future.