Santa Barbara city election officials dropped 46,000 mail-in ballots this Monday, marking the official start of this year’s election season. If registered city voters haven’t received their ballots by this Friday, they should call 564-5309. This year marks the second all-mail election held by City Hall, in part to reduce the costs associated with traditional elections replete with multiple polling places, and to increase voter participation as well. The last election — held two years ago — garnered a 49 percent turnout, the highest in 30 years. City officials doubt this year’s turnout will be as robust.
