Voter registration deadline is September 8; early voting will be available

New Bedford, Massachusetts– The New Bedford Election Commission reminds the public that September 8, 2021, will be the last day to register to vote in the municipal preliminary election on September 28, 2021.

September 8, 2021, is also the last day to notify the Election Commission of any change in voter name or address. Candidates for Ward 5 Councilor will be on the preliminary ballot. The Ward 5 preliminary election will be the only election taking place in the city on September 28, 2021.

Parents or family members can apply for an absentee ballot on behalf of their children attending colleges or universities outside the city or state. Absentee ballots must be returned to the Election Commission office by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. The deadline to cast or apply for an absentee ballot is Monday, September 27, 2021.

There will be a further announcement regarding the day on which absentee voting in the Election Commission office will begin. The Election Commission office, located at New Bedford City Hall, 133 William Street, Room 114, is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The office will also open on Saturday, September 25, 2021, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Polls will be open on Election Day from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Residents with questions about voting status, polling location, absentee ballots, or early voting, should contact the Election Commission office at 508-979-1420.