Florida voters face new locations as storms displace seven county polling sites

Voters in seven Florida counties must travel to different addresses than those listed on their registration cards for the November midterm elections. The Florida Department of State confirmed the changes on its website, noting that widespread flooding forced the relocation of polling places in Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie counties.

Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an emergency order following a low-pressure system that dropped heavy rain across parts of the state from Oct. 31 through Nov. 2. The order declared a state of emergency in Brevard, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. It gives county election supervisors the authority to seek approval from the secretary of state for alternative voting arrangements if standard polling-place requirements cannot be met.

Specific precinct shifts have been mapped out in each affected area. In Brevard County, several precincts now operate out of New Shiloh Christian Center, Joseph N. Davis Community Center, and Palm Bay City Hall. Highlands County voters assigned to Precinct 20 at Springlake Community Center in Sebring are being redirected to the Penny Ogg Operations Center.

Indian River County is moving Precinct 7 from Sebastian Church of God to Sebastian Elks Lodge No. 2714. In Martin County, voting previously held at Grace Presbyterian Church has shifted to the county supervisor of elections office in Stuart. Okeechobee County is directing Precinct 10 voters from Fort Drum Community Church to High Point Church.

Palm Beach County has split its changes between two new venues. Voters from Casa Rio Clubhouse are now assigned to RB Preparatory and Achievement Academy, while those from Ironhorse Country Club are going to North County Senior Center. St. Lucie County has implemented multiple relocations, sending voters to the Port St. Lucie Community Center, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center, Tradition Town Hall, and Havert L. Fenn Center.

The state cautioned that these relocations could still change as more information becomes available. Voters should check the Florida Department of State’s emergency election resources page or contact their local supervisor of elections to verify their assigned site. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Anyone in line when polls close is permitted to cast a ballot.