Elections Ballot Sorting System

Pierce County is soliciting proposals for a fully automated election ballot mail‑sorting system to be used by the Auditor’s Office. The solution must handle high‑volume mail, capture envelope images, verify signatures, interface with the state’s VoteWA voter registration system, sort ballots into multiple configurable pockets, and provide reporting and audit capabilities. Minimum hardware requirements include at least eight sorting pockets, modular scalability, dual‑machine operation on a single server, and the ability to open envelopes without damaging contents. Software must integrate with county LAN, meet security standards, read barcodes, and upload data (return date, voter ID, etc.) to VoteWA. The contract term is one year with up to four optional one‑year extensions. Proposals are due electronically by 4:00 pm on September 16, 2026; questions must be submitted by September 2, 2026. The RFP Coordinator is Kimberly Smith. • Scope: design, supply, install, and support an automated envelope sorting system (hardware + software). • Minimum requirements: ≥8 pockets, modular, dual‑machine, LAN‑compatible, signature capture, barcode reading, data upload to VoteWA. • Support: standard plus extended (weekends/holidays) during election periods, training, documentation. • Timeline: Release 19 Aug 2026 → Questions 2 Sep 2026 → Proposal due 16 Sep 2026 → System in place no later than 15 Jun 2027. • Contract: 1‑year base, optional four 12‑month renewals, value not disclosed.