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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — As the process of completing the count for the Nov. 5 election continues, elections officials on Thursday issued a report on the number of unprocessed ballots, which surpasses the number at this time four years ago.
The Lake County Registrar of Voters said that during the 28-day official canvass period, there are 19,021 ballots still to count.
That total includes the following breakdown:
• Vote-by-mail ballots: 17,445.
• Provisional/conditional ballots: 1,453.
• Vote-by-Mail ballots that require further review for various reasons: 123.
The registrar’s office reported that the unprocessed ballot number could change, as there are still ballots being returned by mail.
The deadline for elections officials to receive vote-by-mail ballots returned by mail for the Nov. 5 General Election is Nov. 12.
Those ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and delivered to the elections office by the U.S. Postal Service or a private mail delivery company no later than seven days after Election Day.
The number of unprocessed ballots reported on Thursday is up slightly from the number reported at this point after the 2020 election, when there were 18,270 ballots remaining to be tallied.
The final voter turnout for the 2020 presidential election was 78.42%. Based on the current count of both unprocessed and processed ballots, this year’s final turnout could be around 71%.
The California Secretary of State’s Office reported on Thursday that 10,728,985 ballots have been counted so far. The estimated number of ballots left to count is 5,472,423.
The official canvass period
While the preliminary election counts were issued on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, the elections office cautioned that those are not final results.
“There are many checks and balances when certifying the election results. The process of certifying election results, also known as the official canvass, is mandated by state law to make sure the public can have confidence in the integrity of the final results. Staff members are working very diligently on completing all tasks required to certify the election,” the Registrar of Voters Office reported.
The process includes the requirement that vote-by-mail ballots must be examined by staff to see if the signature compares with the voter’s signature on file.
After the vote-by-mail voter’s information has been entered and proofed, the vote-by-mail envelopes have to be sorted by voting precinct. Election staff must verify the number of vote-by-mail ballots processed by the voting precinct before the envelopes can be opened. Once staff balances, the envelopes can be opened.
There also are “polls provisional ballots” which are cast at polling places on Election Day.
Poll workers Lake County News spoke to on Election Day reported receiving a large volume of provisional ballots.
Some of the reasons a voter is issued a provisional ballot include:
• The voter’s name is listed on the active voter roster list as a vote-by-mail voter and the voter is unable to surrender his/her vote-by-mail ballot in order to be issued a polls ballot.
• The voter’s name is not printed in the roster-index, has moved and did not re-register to vote at his/her new residence address.
• A voter is voting in the wrong voting precinct and not his/her assigned voting precinct.
• A first time voter who is required to provide ID, but is unable to do so.
• The voter’s eligibility to vote cannot be determined by the poll worker.
“Conditional voter ballots” are issued to a person who missed the regular voter registration deadline of Oct. 21, but they still have the option to vote in an election by conditionally registering to vote and casting a conditional ballot. This is also same day voter registration.
Voters who were allowed to sign the roster-index and issued a ballot at their assigned polling place will have their ballot counted at the Registrar of Voters Office on Election Night.
In addition, all of the roster-indexes must also be examined for errors or omissions. The elections office said its staff checks the ballot statement including the number of returned voted ballots against the number of voters who signed the roster-index.
Provisional and conditional voter signatures also need to match the number of voter provisional and conditional ballots. Once this is done, staff must enter voter history from each of the roster-indexes and record it into the voting system as voter history, the elections office reported.
As part of the official canvass, at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, the Registrar of Voter’s Office will conduct a public manual tally of a minimum of 1% of randomly selected precincts which will include each contest voted on at the Nov. 5 General Election. The selection of the precincts to be included in the manual tally will be randomly chosen on the same date prior to the manual tally.
Community members can view the public manual tally at the elections office, located at 325 N. Forbes St. in Lakeport.
Email Elizabeth Larson atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
The Lake County Registrar of Voters said that during the 28-day official canvass period, there are 19,021 ballots still to count.
That total includes the following breakdown:
• Vote-by-mail ballots: 17,445.
• Provisional/conditional ballots: 1,453.
• Vote-by-Mail ballots that require further review for various reasons: 123.
The registrar’s office reported that the unprocessed ballot number could change, as there are still ballots being returned by mail.
The deadline for elections officials to receive vote-by-mail ballots returned by mail for the Nov. 5 General Election is Nov. 12.
Those ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and delivered to the elections office by the U.S. Postal Service or a private mail delivery company no later than seven days after Election Day.
The number of unprocessed ballots reported on Thursday is up slightly from the number reported at this point after the 2020 election, when there were 18,270 ballots remaining to be tallied.
The final voter turnout for the 2020 presidential election was 78.42%. Based on the current count of both unprocessed and processed ballots, this year’s final turnout could be around 71%.
The California Secretary of State’s Office reported on Thursday that 10,728,985 ballots have been counted so far. The estimated number of ballots left to count is 5,472,423.
The official canvass period
While the preliminary election counts were issued on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, the elections office cautioned that those are not final results.
“There are many checks and balances when certifying the election results. The process of certifying election results, also known as the official canvass, is mandated by state law to make sure the public can have confidence in the integrity of the final results. Staff members are working very diligently on completing all tasks required to certify the election,” the Registrar of Voters Office reported.
The process includes the requirement that vote-by-mail ballots must be examined by staff to see if the signature compares with the voter’s signature on file.
After the vote-by-mail voter’s information has been entered and proofed, the vote-by-mail envelopes have to be sorted by voting precinct. Election staff must verify the number of vote-by-mail ballots processed by the voting precinct before the envelopes can be opened. Once staff balances, the envelopes can be opened.
There also are “polls provisional ballots” which are cast at polling places on Election Day.
Poll workers Lake County News spoke to on Election Day reported receiving a large volume of provisional ballots.
Some of the reasons a voter is issued a provisional ballot include:
• The voter’s name is listed on the active voter roster list as a vote-by-mail voter and the voter is unable to surrender his/her vote-by-mail ballot in order to be issued a polls ballot.
• The voter’s name is not printed in the roster-index, has moved and did not re-register to vote at his/her new residence address.
• A voter is voting in the wrong voting precinct and not his/her assigned voting precinct.
• A first time voter who is required to provide ID, but is unable to do so.
• The voter’s eligibility to vote cannot be determined by the poll worker.
“Conditional voter ballots” are issued to a person who missed the regular voter registration deadline of Oct. 21, but they still have the option to vote in an election by conditionally registering to vote and casting a conditional ballot. This is also same day voter registration.
Voters who were allowed to sign the roster-index and issued a ballot at their assigned polling place will have their ballot counted at the Registrar of Voters Office on Election Night.
In addition, all of the roster-indexes must also be examined for errors or omissions. The elections office said its staff checks the ballot statement including the number of returned voted ballots against the number of voters who signed the roster-index.
Provisional and conditional voter signatures also need to match the number of voter provisional and conditional ballots. Once this is done, staff must enter voter history from each of the roster-indexes and record it into the voting system as voter history, the elections office reported.
As part of the official canvass, at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, the Registrar of Voter’s Office will conduct a public manual tally of a minimum of 1% of randomly selected precincts which will include each contest voted on at the Nov. 5 General Election. The selection of the precincts to be included in the manual tally will be randomly chosen on the same date prior to the manual tally.
Community members can view the public manual tally at the elections office, located at 325 N. Forbes St. in Lakeport.
Email Elizabeth Larson at
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKEPORT, Calif. — In response to the visible uptick in construction along the Lakeport Boulevard corridor, the city of Lakeport’s Public Works and Utilities Department is providing updates on the infrastructure projects currently underway.
The city said these coordinated efforts focus on enhancing the community's infrastructure while minimizing disruption to residents and businesses.
Water and sewer main replacement project
This large-scale project is essential for Lakeport’s water and sewage infrastructure, targeting the replacement of aging water and sewer mains across key locations, including Lakeshore Boulevard, Sayre Street, Jones Street, Tunis Street, Tenth Street, Armstrong Street, Martin Street, Lakeport Boulevard, K Street and Forbes Street.
The updates will enhance water flow and sewage management, setting the groundwork for subsequent paving projects.
After overcoming unforeseen underground conditions, the project is progressing smoothly, with an expected completion by summer 2025.
South Main Street Paving Project
As part of Lakeport’s commitment to maintaining road safety and infrastructure, the South Main Street Paving Project will follow the completion of necessary underground repairs in the South Main Street and Lakeport Blvd area.
Originally scheduled for this year, paving will now begin in spring 2025, aligning with optimal weather conditions for road durability.
This project will provide new asphalt paving, striping, crosswalks, and rectangular rapid flashing beacons for enhanced pedestrian safety.
Lakeport Courthouse project
Since breaking ground in July, the construction of the new Lakeport Courthouse is moving forward.
The 46,000-square-foot facility will feature four courtrooms, secured parking for judicial officers, and 100 surface parking spaces for public use.
Additionally, the courthouse design includes solar power generation capability, underscoring our commitment to sustainability.
This project is managed and funded by the Judicial Council of the State of California, with no city or county funds used, and is expected to be completed by May 2026.
Lakeport Boulevard Improvement Project
In anticipation of future improvements to the Lakeport Blvd corridor, the City is preparing the Lakeport Boulevard Improvement Project.
This initiative will enhance pedestrian and traffic safety with road repaving, continuous sidewalks, and new crosswalks equipped with RRFBs.
Design and planning are underway, with construction slated to begin in fiscal year 2026-2027.
For more information, please contact the Lakeport Public Works and Utilities Department at 707-263-3578.
The city said these coordinated efforts focus on enhancing the community's infrastructure while minimizing disruption to residents and businesses.
Water and sewer main replacement project
This large-scale project is essential for Lakeport’s water and sewage infrastructure, targeting the replacement of aging water and sewer mains across key locations, including Lakeshore Boulevard, Sayre Street, Jones Street, Tunis Street, Tenth Street, Armstrong Street, Martin Street, Lakeport Boulevard, K Street and Forbes Street.
The updates will enhance water flow and sewage management, setting the groundwork for subsequent paving projects.
After overcoming unforeseen underground conditions, the project is progressing smoothly, with an expected completion by summer 2025.
South Main Street Paving Project
As part of Lakeport’s commitment to maintaining road safety and infrastructure, the South Main Street Paving Project will follow the completion of necessary underground repairs in the South Main Street and Lakeport Blvd area.
Originally scheduled for this year, paving will now begin in spring 2025, aligning with optimal weather conditions for road durability.
This project will provide new asphalt paving, striping, crosswalks, and rectangular rapid flashing beacons for enhanced pedestrian safety.
Lakeport Courthouse project
Since breaking ground in July, the construction of the new Lakeport Courthouse is moving forward.
The 46,000-square-foot facility will feature four courtrooms, secured parking for judicial officers, and 100 surface parking spaces for public use.
Additionally, the courthouse design includes solar power generation capability, underscoring our commitment to sustainability.
This project is managed and funded by the Judicial Council of the State of California, with no city or county funds used, and is expected to be completed by May 2026.
Lakeport Boulevard Improvement Project
In anticipation of future improvements to the Lakeport Blvd corridor, the City is preparing the Lakeport Boulevard Improvement Project.
This initiative will enhance pedestrian and traffic safety with road repaving, continuous sidewalks, and new crosswalks equipped with RRFBs.
Design and planning are underway, with construction slated to begin in fiscal year 2026-2027.
For more information, please contact the Lakeport Public Works and Utilities Department at 707-263-3578.
- Details
- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport is seeking enthusiastic community members to fill two upcoming vacancies on the Lakeport Planning Commission beginning Jan. 1.
If you’re passionate about local government and community planning, this is your chance to make an impact.
One seat may be filled by an applicant residing outside of Lakeport city limits but within the Lakeport zip code. The other seat must be filled by an applicant living within the city limits of Lakeport.
The Planning Commission comprises five members who serve four-year terms and meet monthly to advise the City Council on planning, zoning and land use matters.
Topics include the general plan, rezoning, subdivisions and architectural reviews.
Applications can be accessed on the city’s website under “Now Recruiting: Commission/Committee Openings” at www.cityoflakeport.com (or see Government > Committees & Commissions section).
Submit your application by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12.
For more information, please contact Deputy City Clerk Hilary Britton at 707-263-5615, Extension 102 orThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
If you’re passionate about local government and community planning, this is your chance to make an impact.
One seat may be filled by an applicant residing outside of Lakeport city limits but within the Lakeport zip code. The other seat must be filled by an applicant living within the city limits of Lakeport.
The Planning Commission comprises five members who serve four-year terms and meet monthly to advise the City Council on planning, zoning and land use matters.
Topics include the general plan, rezoning, subdivisions and architectural reviews.
Applications can be accessed on the city’s website under “Now Recruiting: Commission/Committee Openings” at www.cityoflakeport.com (or see Government > Committees & Commissions section).
Submit your application by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12.
For more information, please contact Deputy City Clerk Hilary Britton at 707-263-5615, Extension 102 or
- Details
- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday issued a proclamation convening a special session of the California Legislature to safeguard California values and fundamental rights in the face of an incoming Trump administration.
The special session will focus on bolstering California legal resources to protect civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action and immigrant families.
This is the first of several actions by the Newsom Administration, in partnership with the Legislature, as the governor begins shoring up California's defenses against an incoming federal administration that has threatened the state on multiple fronts.
“The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack — and we won’t sit idle. California has faced this challenge before, and we know how to respond,” Newsom said. “We are prepared to fight in the courts, and we will do everything necessary to ensure Californians have the support and resources they need to thrive.”
“No matter what the incoming Administration has in store, California will keep moving forward,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “We’ve been through this before, and we stand ready to defend your rights and protect California values. We’re working closely with the Governor and the Legislature to shore up our defenses and ensure we have the resources we need to take on each fight as it comes.”
“Voters sent a clear message this election, and we need to lean-in and listen," said Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister). "But we also must be prepared to defend California values, no matter the challenges ahead, so it makes sense to consider the Governor’s proposal. I’m ready to fight harder than ever for opportunity, equality and a Golden State that works for each and every resident.”
“We learned a lot about former President Trump in his first term — he’s petty, vindictive, and will do what it takes to get his way no matter how dangerous the policy may be," said Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire (D-North Coast). "California has come too far and accomplished too much to simply surrender and accept his dystopian vision for America. This is why we’re moving with speed and investing in our legal defense. This is an important first step in protecting our progress and the values that make this state great. We’ll be working with the Assembly and the Governor in the months ahead to ensure the rights of all Californians are safeguarded.”
Special session goals
The special session responds to the public statements and proposals put forward by President-elect Trump and his advisors, and actions taken during his first term in office — an agenda that could erode essential freedoms and individual rights, including women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
A special session allows for expedited action that will best protect California and its values from attacks.
The special session will begin Dec. 2, when the Legislature convenes.
The governor has outlined several urgent priorities to be defended in this special session by bolstering legal defenses against federal actions.
The governor's proclamation calls for legislation to provide additional resources to the California Department of Justice and other state entities to pursue robust affirmative litigation against any unlawful actions by the incoming Trump Administration, as well as defend against federal lawsuits aimed at undermining California’s laws and policies.
The funding will support the ability to immediately file litigation and seek injunctive relief against unlawful federal actions.
The special session will focus on bolstering California legal resources to protect civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action and immigrant families.
This is the first of several actions by the Newsom Administration, in partnership with the Legislature, as the governor begins shoring up California's defenses against an incoming federal administration that has threatened the state on multiple fronts.
“The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack — and we won’t sit idle. California has faced this challenge before, and we know how to respond,” Newsom said. “We are prepared to fight in the courts, and we will do everything necessary to ensure Californians have the support and resources they need to thrive.”
“No matter what the incoming Administration has in store, California will keep moving forward,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “We’ve been through this before, and we stand ready to defend your rights and protect California values. We’re working closely with the Governor and the Legislature to shore up our defenses and ensure we have the resources we need to take on each fight as it comes.”
“Voters sent a clear message this election, and we need to lean-in and listen," said Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister). "But we also must be prepared to defend California values, no matter the challenges ahead, so it makes sense to consider the Governor’s proposal. I’m ready to fight harder than ever for opportunity, equality and a Golden State that works for each and every resident.”
“We learned a lot about former President Trump in his first term — he’s petty, vindictive, and will do what it takes to get his way no matter how dangerous the policy may be," said Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire (D-North Coast). "California has come too far and accomplished too much to simply surrender and accept his dystopian vision for America. This is why we’re moving with speed and investing in our legal defense. This is an important first step in protecting our progress and the values that make this state great. We’ll be working with the Assembly and the Governor in the months ahead to ensure the rights of all Californians are safeguarded.”
Special session goals
The special session responds to the public statements and proposals put forward by President-elect Trump and his advisors, and actions taken during his first term in office — an agenda that could erode essential freedoms and individual rights, including women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
A special session allows for expedited action that will best protect California and its values from attacks.
The special session will begin Dec. 2, when the Legislature convenes.
The governor has outlined several urgent priorities to be defended in this special session by bolstering legal defenses against federal actions.
The governor's proclamation calls for legislation to provide additional resources to the California Department of Justice and other state entities to pursue robust affirmative litigation against any unlawful actions by the incoming Trump Administration, as well as defend against federal lawsuits aimed at undermining California’s laws and policies.
The funding will support the ability to immediately file litigation and seek injunctive relief against unlawful federal actions.
- Details
- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS