Elections
Contact the Elections Office
Our Elections Office Staff is here to serve you and ensure your voting experience is smooth, accessible, and secure. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or requests for assistance.
Elections Coordinator: Diane Stensgar
Phone: (509) 634-2151
Fax: (509) 634-2152
Link to Email: Email
The Elections Coordinator oversees all aspects of Tribal elections and can assist with questions about procedures, eligibility, and election administration.
Elections Technician: Frank Andrews III
Phone: (509) 634-2121
Work Cell: (509) 634-1478
Link to Email: Email
The Elections Technician handles day-to-day operations, form processing, and voter assistance requests. Contact them for help with forms and general inquiries.
Office Hours
Visit us during our Monday through Thursday 7 am - 5:30 pm business hours for in-person assistance. Our office is committed to providing accessible, courteous service to all Tribal members. We encourage you to call ahead if you need specific documents or have complex questions requiring research.
Elections & Voting Information
The Elections Department administers Tribal elections and ensures that all eligible Colville Tribal members have fair, equal, and transparent access to the voting process. Our mission is rooted in transparency, integrity, and accessibility-making sure every voice in our community can be heard.
Our goal is to promote meaningful participation, protect your fundamental voting rights, and provide clear, straightforward information so every member understands exactly how and when to vote. Whether you're voting for the first time or have participated in every election, we're here to support you through the process.
Information for First-Time & Off-Reservation Voters
If you are an enrolled Colville Tribal member and 18 years or older, you are eligible to vote in Tribal elections-even if you live off the reservation. Your enrollment status grants you this right, regardless of where you currently reside.
Many first-time and off-reservation voters are unsure how the process works or whether they're truly eligible to participate. This page is designed to help clarify eligibility requirements, explain district selection, and outline all available voting options so you can participate with confidence.
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Enrolled members are automatically eligible to vote at age 18
Living off reservation does not remove your right to vote
First-time voters choose their voting district
Absentee voting is available for all eligible members
No separate voter registration is required
Voting By Absentee Ballot
Absentee voting provides a convenient way for members who live off the reservation or cannot vote in person to participate fully in Tribal elections. This option ensures that geographic distance never prevents you from exercising your right to vote.
To request an absentee ballot, simply complete and submit the official request form. You can download the form using the button below, fill it out, and return it to the Elections Office. Once processed, your ballot will be mailed to your current address with complete instructions and a return envelope.
Members may also request automatic absentee status for all future elections, eliminating the need to submit a new request each time. This option is ideal for those who permanently reside off reservation or prefer the convenience of voting by mail.
Absentee Voting Tips
- Submit your request well before the deadline
- Keep your mailing address current with Elections Office
- Follow all instructions inclued with your ballot
- Return your completed ballot by the specified deadline
- Contact us if you don't receive your ballot in time
Updating Your Information
Address Changes
Keeping your address current ensures you receive important election information and absentee ballots without delay. If you've moved, please notify the Elections Office as soon as possible using our official address change form.
This is especially important for off-reservation voters who rely on mail delivery for ballots and election materials.
District Changes
While your first vote establishes your voting district, circumstances may change over time. If you need to change your voting district, complete the official district change request form and submit it to the Elections Office.
Please note: District change requests require processing time and may be subject to specific eligibility requirements.
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No separate registration is required. All enrolled Colville Tribal members are automatically eligible to vote when they reach 18 years of age. Your enrollment serves as your voter registration.
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Yes, absolutely. Living off the reservation does not affect your eligibility or rights in any way. You can vote by absentee ballot or travel to vote in person on election day-the choice is yours.
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Request an absentee ballot using the form available on this page or by contacting the Elections Office directly. Your ballot will be mailed to you with complete instructions and a pre-addressed return envelope.
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Welcome! As a first-time voter, you'll have the opportunity to select your voting district when you cast your first ballot. The Elections Office can help answer any questions you have about the process.
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Contact the Elections Office using the information provided at the bottom of this page. Our staff is ready to assist with any questions about eligibility, voting procedures, forms, or deadlines.
Important Election Dates
Mark your calendar with these critical dates for upcoming elections. Staying informed about deadlines ensures you don't miss your opportunity to participate. This section is updated for each election cycle with current information.
1 Candidate Filing Deadline (Date to be determined in 2027)
Candidates must file their declarations of intent and complete all required paperwork by this date to appear on the ballot. Check with the Elections Office for specific filing requirements and procedures.
2 Absentee Ballot Request Deadline (Date to be determined in 2027)
Submit your absentee ballot request by this date to ensure your ballot is mailed in time for you to complete and return it. Late requests may not be processed in time for the election.
3 Absentee Ballot Return Deadline (Date to be determined in 2027)
Completed absentee ballots must be received (not just postmarked) by the Elections Office by this date and time. Plan to mail your ballot several days in advance to account for mail delivery time.
4 Election Day (Date to be determined in 2027)
Polling locations will be open for in-person voting. Specific hours and locations will be announced prior to election day. Bring a valid form of identification if possible, though it may not be strictly required.
Note: Specific dates for upcoming elections will be posted here and announced through official Tribal communication channels well in advance. Check back regularly or contact the Elections Office for the most current information.
Your Vote Matters. It’s your voice in Tribal governance, your connection to community decisions, and your right as an enrolled member. We’re honored to help you exercise that right.
The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation has 3 distinct languages.
