Councilman Michael Johnson's
Arizona Informant Column

Feb. 25, 2006

Bring ID to Your Polling Place March 14

The parks, libraries, police and fire stations and storm drains around you were most likely built with bond money.

There's really no other way Phoenix could have provided these necessities.

On March 14, Phoenix voters will be asked to cast their ballots on an $870 million bond package that would be used for a variety of community improvements over the next five years.

There are seven proposals, ranging from police and fire investments to building small high schools to senior and cultural centers expansions to blight and graffiti elimination.

These improvements will not impact your tax rate one penny whatsoever.

Remember that when casting your ballot at the polls on March 14, you will be required to show proof of identity under a statewide measure approved in 2004.

To vote at the polls, each elector will need to present one form of photo identification that bears their name, address and photograph.

All identification must match the voter's name and address shown on the Signature Roster. Valid forms of photo identification include a tribal identification card or other valid government-issued identification with the voter's name, photo and current address.

Voters who do not have acceptable photo ID may present two different forms of ID that bear their name and address.

This could include city water, electric, gas, telephone or cable television bills, or bank or credit union statements that are dated within 90 days before the election.

Other acceptable identification include a valid Arizona vehicle registration, a vehicle insurance card, an Indian Census or tribal enrollment card, the property tax statement for the voter's residence, or a valid government issued identification.

A voter registration card, or other official election material mailed to the voter's residence, such as the informational pamphlet for the election, also are acceptable.

For more information or questions about acceptable proof of identification, visit phoenix.gov or call the City Clerk Department at 602-261-VOTE (8683).

This is the first time voters in Phoenix and across the state have been asked to provide some form of acceptable identification.

Please get out and vote and remember to provide proper identification at the polls on March 14th.

Michael Johnson is Councilman for Phoenix District 8. His office can be reached at 602-262-7493 or at michael.johnson@phoenix.gov via e-mail.