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A. To vote for a write-in candidate, the voter must write the candidate’s name, fill in the oval opposite the candidate’s name in accordance with WMC 4.28.015(A). Stickers may not be used on ballots.

B. Write-in votes shall be counted according to the following rules:

1. A write-in vote that is not marked in accordance with subsection (A) of this section may not be counted under any circumstances.

2. Writing in the name of a candidate whose name is printed on the ballot does not invalidate a write-in vote unless the canvass board determines, on the basis of other evidence, that the ballot was so marked for the purpose of identifying the ballot.

3. In counting votes for a write-in candidate, the canvass board shall disregard any abbreviation, misspelling, or other minor variation in the form of the name of a candidate if the intention of the voter can be ascertained.

C. Except as provided in WMC 4.34.040(B), write-in votes shall be tallied only if the total number of write-in votes for an office exceeds the smallest number of votes cast for a candidate for that office whose name is printed on the ballot. No votes for a write-in candidate may be counted unless that candidate has filed a letter of intent with the clerk in accordance with WMC 4.12.045. (Ord. 21-10 § 4, 2021; Ord. 12-20 § 39, 2012; Ord. 03-15 § 8, 2003; prior code § 18.35.020)