The Cherokee Nation Election Commission recently announced it has purchased its own automated election system, which will allow the tribe to run its own elections in 2015. In the past, the Cherokee Nation has contracted with various vendors, including Unicyn and Automated Election Services. According to Cherokee Nation Election Commission Director Connie Parnell, by owning its own equipment, computers and software, the tribe will save hundreds of thousands of dollars and improve election security. “Frankly, it’s more cost-effective,” said Parnell. “The last election in October 2013 cost almost $300,000. Each big election was costing that much, without adding in the cost of runoffs and special elections.”
The purchase price of the new equipment is $200,290 and includes 30 e-scan machines, mobile ballot boxes, recording equipment and the computers and software for election setup.
… The CNEC has selected Hart InterCivic for the purchase. In addition to the equipment, the company will also provide training and project management services to personnel.
“Hart InterCivic was able to meet with out commissioners right away and in person,” said Parnell. “We had a running list of questions in mind, and Hard was able to answer each question to successful completion.” – See more at: http://www.tahlequahdailypress.com/local/x129172188/Cherokee-Nation-Election-Commission-purchases-voting-system#sthash.QZWSG8CD.dpuf
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