Bexar County, Texas has taken a significant step forward in election modernization with the adoption of KNOWiNK’s Poll Pad electronic pollbook system. The decision, made on May 13, 2025, by Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai and the County Commissioners, will bring Poll Pad technology to all polling locations, improving the voting experience and expanding accessibility for voters with hearing impairments and mobility challenges.
Michele Carew, Bexar County Elections Administrator, highlighted the benefits of the new technology: “The approval of this new hardware and software will replace equipment used at every polling site, streamlining check-ins for all voters while ensuring dedicated equipment is readily available for Deaf access and eligible curbside voters at all polling sites to improve customer experience.”
Comprehensive Accessibility Solutions
The implementation of KNOWiNK’s Poll Pad technology represents a comprehensive upgrade to Bexar County’s election infrastructure. The new system will not only provide cutting-edge equipment but also introduce advanced features specifically designed to improve the voting experience for voters with accessibility needs, reinforcing the county’s commitment to voter participation.
Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The Bexar County Election Commission has emphasized the need for technology upgrades and greater access for those with different abilities, including expanded accommodations for the Deaf community. Our new Elections Administrator, Michele Carew, is delivering.”
Transforming the Voting Experience
Elections Administrator Michele Carew further explained the broader impacts of the technology upgrade: “This upgrade will make voting in Bexar County faster and easier for everyone. We’re aiming for a more inclusive and accessible experience at the polls.”
Scott Leiendecker, Founder and CEO of KNOWiNK, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “At KNOWiNK, we believe that voting technology should serve all voters. Poll Pad is designed with accessibility at its core, and we’re proud to support Bexar County in their commitment to ensuring access to the democratic process. This implementation represents exactly what we strive for – technology that removes barriers and opens doors for every eligible voter.”
A History of Progress
Bexar County has made remarkable progress in improving accessibility for Deaf voters. Initially, only the Election Department polling site was equipped to serve Deaf voters requiring accommodation. By the 2024 Presidential Election, access had expanded to five polling sites.
With the implementation of KNOWiNK’s technology, full accessibility for the Deaf community is expected to be in place across all sites for the November 2025 election season. This expansion demonstrates both the county’s commitment to inclusive voting practices and the transformative potential of KNOWiNK’s solutions.
About KNOWiNK
KNOWiNK is the leading election technology company specializing in electronic pollbook solutions that modernize the election process. The company’s flagship product, Poll Pad (v.3.6), became the first-in-the-nation to receive certification from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) earlier this year. KNOWiNK’s technology is designed to enhance voter experience while maintaining the highest standards of election integrity and security. For more information, visit www.knowink.com.
For election officials interested in learning how KNOWiNK’s accessible voting solutions can benefit your jurisdiction, contact our team today for a personalized demonstration.
