Absentee Ballot Alert

Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025

**This year’s Harbor Springs ballot is short, but significant. Voters will choose two City Council members from a field of five candidates. These seats will help shape Harbor Springs’ direction for years to come. Every vote counts. Your voice matters.

The Harbor Light has printed comments from the candidates, and a replay of the Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidates Forum with a replay available on YouTube. If you want to know more about some of the issues, all the candidates have made themselves available in various ways. Perhaps reach out to Mayor Graham or one of the City Council members to get a State of Harbor Springs perspective on what is on the agenda going forward.

In each election, more than 40% of cast ballots are absentee. If you intend to cast an absentee ballot, it is important that you understand the process. It appears to have changed a bit.

For the best information, go to: State of Michigan

Our understanding is that in 2023, Michigan changed its absentee ballot system (Public Act 86 of 2023). Voters must check a new box on the absentee ballot application to automatically receive ballots for future elections. Depending on your city clerk, some voters have been notified of this change, and others have not.

If you haven’t received your Absentee Ballot yet, don’t wait hoping it shows up. If you would like to vote by Absentee ballot NOW, here is what to do:**

- **Online **– Registered voters can request an absentee ballot online at: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/AVApplication/Index

- **In person** at City Hall, 160 Zoll Street. You will be able to fill out your absentee ballot application and submit your ballot while there. If they are busy, it might take a moment to vote.

For more information, visit:

https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/voting/absentee-voting

Any questions, please reach out to Nick Whitaker, Harbor Springs city clerk at:

(231) 526-2104 or cityclerk@cityofharborsprings.com

Some people have been frustrated with some aspect of the process. If you believe something improper is going on, avoid spreading rumors on Facebook. Issues are often honest mistakes. If you are concerned, simply contact Emmet County: Suzanne Kanine skanine@emmetcounty.org and they will help you with any concerns.

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