Trinidad ballots incorrect, replacement ballots on the way

LAS ANIMAS COUNTY, Colo. (KXRM) — Voters in the city of Trinidad may have noticed something was missing from their ballot when they were sent.

On Tuesday, Oct. 22, Las Animas County issued a letter addressing the error and what citizens who were affected should do.

Some ballots sent to voters in Trinidad did not contain the city of Trinidad's TABOR issue, also known as Ballot Measure 2A. The measure would fund improvements to parks, playgrounds, open spaces, and other spaces that need it. The proposed tax would be paid by hotel, motel, and Airbnb guests.

Voters affected live in portions of Precinct Six on the western side of Trinidad. The Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder reported the error to the Secretary of State's Office and obtained guidance on the best way to fix the correct replacement ballots for affected voters. The office determined they would send replacement ballots to affected voters.

Affected voters need to:

• If you have NOT returned your original ballot: Destroy the ballot that does not contain City of Trinidad Ballot Issue 2A.
  • Mark and return the correct replacement ballot in the return envelope enclosed with the replacement ballot and return it to the Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder or a ballot drop box before 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5.
• If you HAVE returned your ballot: Mark and return the corrected replacement ballot in the return envelope enclosed with the replacement ballot packet.
  • Only the corrected ballot will be counted by Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder.

The Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder emphasized only ONE ballot will be processed and counted for each voter. No voter is permitted to vote more than once in any election.

Anyone who has questions can contact Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder at Karrie.Apple@lasanimascounty.org or 719-845-2575. Voters are also able to stop by the office located at 200 E First Street, Room 205 in Trinidad.

Partner Nexstar station FOX21 News has reached out to the Las Animas County Clerk and Recorder and is awaiting a response on how many ballots were affected.