Polls are now open for Wareham voters ahead of the Nov. 6 election, and Town Clerk Mary Ann Silva says residents are finding the expanded hours convenient.

“People who come in say it’s wonderful being to able to vote on their own time,” said Silva. “There’s no waiting.”

As of Oct. 24, 308 residents have cast ballots before Election Day, Silva reported. Polls are open Oct. 27 from 8 a.m. to noon and Oct. 29 - Nov. 1 from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Polls are open on Nov. 2 from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Registered voters may cast ballots in Town Hall, located at 54 Marion Road. 

This election marks the second time Wareham has participated in early voting. The first occasion was two years ago during the presidential election. This year, the town is taking advantage of new technology available from the state to simplify the early voting process.

For the first time Wareham is using “poll pads.” Poll workers are using the devices, which are iPads that process voter information and verify addresses. Silva said the technology speeds along check-in and requires fewer staff.

“They are very efficient,” said Silva.

Silva said three poll pads are being used. While researching the technology she learned it would have cost the town $2,100 to purchase the devices. However, the state allows cities and towns to lease poll pads at no cost. Wareham leased the pads for this election, Silva said.

Silva noted that early voting differs from absentee ballots. Absentee ballots are reserved for voters who are unable to be in town on Election Day or a physical disability or religious belief prevents them from voting on that day. Those ballots must be requested in writing and applications are available online at: www.sec.state.ma.us. Absentee ballot applications  must be submitted to the Town Clerk’s office by noon on Nov. 5.