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A. Not later than the Monday following each election, the canvass board shall meet and shall:

1. In full view of those present, judge the validity of absentee by mail, early, special needs and questioned ballots, open and tally accepted ballots, and compile the total votes cast in the election;

2. Review the precinct certificates or tapes of results for accuracy;

3. Correct all obvious errors;

4. Recommend a recount of the results of the precinct for that portion of the returns where a mistake has been made which cannot be corrected under subsection (A)(3) of this section;

5. Report any irregularities in the election or discrepancies in the count of the ballots in its report to the council; and

6. Certify the validity of all votes counted and sign a certification of the results of the count.

B. After receiving the canvass board report and as soon as practicable after the counting of the ballots, but not later than the second Monday after the election, the council shall meet in public session and examine all election returns. The examination may be postponed for cause from day to day, but there shall be no more than three postponements.

C. If the canvass board reports irregularities in the election, the council shall determine whether the irregularities are so serious as to deny a meaningful vote of the citizens of the city. If the canvass board reports a discrepancy in the count of the ballots, the council may order a recount of the votes in the affected precincts. The council may order an investigation of any irregularities or discrepancies. The council may exclude votes cast or declare the entire election invalid if necessary to assure a fair election. If the council concludes that the election is not valid, it shall order another election. The election shall be conducted promptly as a special election and according to procedures in this chapter.

D. Unless the council orders an investigation or unless a contest has been previously filed pursuant to WMC 4.32.020, the council by resolution shall declare the election valid and certify the election results. The council shall certify results not in question immediately and shall complete investigation or contest procedures as soon as practicable to assure prompt certification.

E. The council resolution certifying the election results shall be accompanied by the following information:

1. The total number of poll, absentee by mail, early, questioned, and special needs ballots cast in the election;

2. For each office, the number of votes counted for each candidate for the office;

3. For each proposition or question, the number of votes counted for and against the proposition or question. (Ord. 12-20 § 48, 2012; Ord. 04-24(SUB) § 14, 2004; Ord. 02-22 § 18, 2002; Ord. 01-16(SUB) § 15, 2001; prior code § 18.35.110)