Orangeburg County getting voting machines.
The Times and Democrat. February 22, 2005. By TUCKER LYON, T&D Government Writer

Orangeburg County Council accepted an offer it couldn't refuse Tuesday ? a $1 million uniform electronic voting system that is mandated but will be fully financed by state and federal funds.

"This will not cost us anything," council Chairman John Rickenbacker said. "We really can't turn it down; but, at the same time, we will make sure our people are orientated properly."

Rickenbacker emphasized the general public should understand there will be plenty of time and opportunities to practice with the new machines.

"If you have an organization or a group, for people to practice before the real election comes up, contact (the county)," the chairman said. "So the next major election, we have people who will be comfortable voting in Orangeburg County. Any church, school or function with a large gathering ... not even a large gathering ... This is very crucial in terms of how the voting is."

Council members have already practiced on the new machines, Rickenbacker said, and "feel comfortable they're user-friendly."

Orangeburg County is receiving 271 of the new voting machines, with all the necessary computer software, valued at a total cost of $1,058,668.

"It's a uniform system, so no matter where you travel or reside in South Carolina, you're all on one system," said Earl Whalen, local director of voter registration and elections. "It was used in 15 counties in the 2004 presidential election in Phase I. The rest are in Phase II."

In addition, Orangeburg County, with municipal elections scheduled in November, will be one of the first six counties in Phase II that are on the tour schedule for the S.C. Votes van and other promotional events.

In addition to Whalen, Donna Royson, director of election services for the state Election Commission, attended the council session.