Perry County recorded the highest voter turnout in Missouri for the April 7 municipal election, a surge driven largely by two high-profile tax-related ballot measures, according to County Clerk Jared Kutz.
A total of 4,969 ballots were cast, representing a 36.62 percent turnout — more than double last year’s participation and the highest percentage turnout of any county in the state.
“We more than doubled turnout from last year,” Kutz said. “At this moment, that is the highest turnout of any county in the state of Missouri, percentage-wise, and I don’t think anybody’s going to pass us up.”
Kutz attributed the increase primarily to voter interest in two key issues: a senior homestead property tax freeze and the Perry County School District 32’s Proposition K.I.D.S. levy proposal.
“I think those things really drove people to the polls,” he said.
Despite the high turnout, Kutz said election operations ran smoothly across the county.
While minor issues arose early in the day — something he described as typical for any election — they were quickly resolved, allowing voters to cast ballots without disruption.
“For the most part, voters came in, got their ballots, voted, and went about their day,” Kutz said.
He credited the success of the election to the experience and professionalism of local poll workers, many of whom have served for years.
More than half of the county’s election judges have been working in precincts since before Kutz took office in 2015, giving them more than a decade of experience navigating changes in election laws and procedures, including evolving photo identification requirements.
“That experience really shows,” Kutz said. “They run a good election, and we’re fortunate to have them.”
Election night reporting also proceeded efficiently. The first precinct results arrived shortly after 7 p.m., and all precincts had reported by approximately 8:24 p.m., leaving only post-election cleanup and verification.
The election has since been certified, with the unofficial results holding firm. Kutz noted that wide margins in most races helped simplify the certification process and avoid complications.
“We always say we pray for wide margins, and we got wide margins in most instances,” he said.
Kutz expressed appreciation for the team that helped make the election a success, emphasizing the role of both poll workers and office staff.
“They did a wonderful job, and I am thankful to be surrounded by people who are so good at what they do,” he said.
With the April election now complete, Kutz said his office is already turning its attention to the next cycle.
“We’ll start getting ready for August,” he said.
