The Central Count Ballot Scanner/Tabulator system is tested prior to each election by using a pre-marked set of test ballots, representing each ballot type and precinct in the election. 

A Public Notice is released announcing the date, time, and location of the testing.

This is the testing of the Ballot on Demand Printers that ensures that each machine is programmed and prepared properly. Testing ensures the integrity of the Ballot on Demand Printers and that the printer prints the correct ballot type as requested by the voter, and that the ballots can be scanned by the Central County scanners. The testing is performed before every election.

A Public Notice is released announcing the date, time, and location of the testing.

This is the loading of election data and testing of the Ballot Marking Devices to be utilized in the upcoming election.  This process ensures that each machine is securely programmed and prepared properly. Testing ensures the integrity of the ballot marking during the election. 

A Public Notice is released announcing the date, time, and location of the testing.

In accordance with Chapter 2 of Division 15 of the California Elections Code, for an election, the opening and processing of returned Vote by Mail (VBM) ballot envelopes is scheduled to begin on 29 days before election day. Ballot processing will continue through Election Day and the following weeks until complete. The majority of ballots are expected to be processed within a week of Election Day. However, some VBM ballots will continue to be processed through the end of the canvass period.

The public may observe the operation at any Vote Center during hours of operation, including Election Day, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. View Vote Center locations and hours of operation.

After the polls close at 8:00 p.m., ballots from each Vote Center will be delivered to 1601 Lana Way, Hollister, CA, 95023, for central tabulation and reporting. Election staff will process and report accumulated election results until all precincts have reported.

Pursuant to California Elections Code section 15301, the official canvass must start no later than the Thursday after the election.

The official canvass process is open to the public and must continue for at least 6 hours a day (Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays excepted) until completed.

The canvass includes, but is not limited to, the inspection of all materials and supplies; processing and counting the valid Vote by Mail and Provisional ballots; counting valid write-in votes and conducting the post-election manual recounts.

Please contact the Election Department (831-636-4016) regarding the anticipated schedule of specific activities if you are interested in a particular aspect of the canvass process.

After completing this process, the election results are then certified and made public. According to California Election Code section 15372, the Registrar of Voters must complete all steps of the canvass and certify the vote within 30 days of the election.