HST Referendum Deadline Expired

VICTORIA - Today was the last day to cast a vote in the HST Referendum, no exceptions. At 4:30 this afternoon the doors were locked at Elections BC, despite a steady stream of people dropping off last minute ballots, and opinions.

The vast majority of people were of the "yes" vote, to abolish the tax. But whether you voted for or against, it's the democratic process that counts says Central Saanich Mayor Jack Mar, caught dropping of his ballot late in the day.

"I think we have to show the leadership one way or another and I'm not telling you which way I voted but at least it will get counted one way or another."

More than 3 million ballots were mailed out by Elections BC, and it's hoping for a 50-percent return rate.

Missing ballots, and voter packages addressed to either dead people of those who no longer live in the province have been just some of the complaints made by critics about the mail out referendum process. But for those with no fixed address it's been smooth sailing says Sandra Danco of Our Place.

"We assisted folks at our place by posting information, letting them used our address and also we have the assistance of outreach workers to help them fill out the forms. We're just glad to provide the info and give people an opportunity to vote."

Now the real work begins. The counting process will starts early next week with 70 employees working 7 days a week in two shifts from 7 am to 10 pm.

Elections BC has promised to provide preliminary numbers and statistics on things such as the rate of return next week, with the final answer to the HST question expected on Aug. 25th.

Follow Erin Glazier on Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/ANewsErin

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