Great news just in from the King County Elections Office and its new director, Julie Wise:

The number of ballot drop boxes in King County will be quadrupled now that the County Council’s Budget Committee has approved a proposal by Director of Elections Julie Wise. The additional funding will also increase voter outreach in communities where English is not the primary language.

“We should make it as easy as possible to exercise the right to vote and this is a good step in that direction,” said Julie Wise, King County Election’s Director. “I want to thank both the Executive and County Council for their support in making this happen so quickly.”

Today, the county has 10 permanent ballot drop boxes and 12 vans that operate as temporary drop boxes around election time. This expansion would add 30 new permanent boxes, according to the county. The locations haven't yet been determined (a report on potential locations is due to the county council in April). Some of the boxes will be ready for the August primary and the rest will be installed by November, according to the elections office.

The lack of drop boxes was one of the main issues during last year's race between Wise and her opponent, state Rep. Zack Hudgins.

“Democracy requires participation,” King County Executive Dow Constantine said in a statement today. “Director Wise and I share a commitment to increasing voter access across King County. Working with the county council, we will help ensure that everyone’s voice is heard in our region.”