Beaufort County agencies team up to speed Daufuskie Island election results

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - The Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office are working together to deliver election results faster to local voters, the agencies said.

How results were collected before

In previous election cycles, a sheriff’s deputy collected the equipment and physical results from the Daufuskie Island precinct. The deputy transported them back on the standard ferry schedule.

The process depended on ferry departure times. Island data often did not reach the central office until about 11 p.m.

Boat and helicopter options

The elections board’s director approached Sheriff Tanner about alternative transit options.

The Sheriff’s Office initially offered a Marine Patrol boat. A member of the elections staff would accompany the deputy to pick up the results and ensure data security.

The next day, the Sheriff’s Office contacted the elections office and suggested using one of its Aviation Unit helicopters instead of a boat. The helicopter would fly the elections staff member to and from Daufuskie Island.

Officials comment

“This is an example of two county agencies working together to provide a positive impact for the voters of Beaufort County,” said Jean Felix, director of the Board of Voter Registration and Elections. “Teamwork at its finest!”