THUNDER BAY -- The city clerk says it's an encouraging sign that voter turnout is up 29 per cent at advance polls over 2010.
Between the voting van, West Thunder Community Centre and the 55 Plus Centre more than 3,800 people had cast their ballot so far. The number of voters, around 80,000, hasn't changed much since the last election.
"All across the board where we've been we've had an uptake in turnout," John Hannam said.
The voting van alone, which is at Northwood Park Plaza Friday evening and Intercity Shopping centre all day Saturday, had 400 people vote in under five hours when it was at County Fair Thursday. The 55 Plus Centre had 1,200 people Thursday with a steady stream turning out all day Friday.
Polls at Confederation College and Lakehead University saw the student vote double from advance polling in 2010.
"I think that's a strong indication that the students are paying a little more attention," Hannam said.
These are all still advance polls though and it's still too early to see if the city can improve its 47 per cent turn out from 2010. But Hannam said the numbers are encouraging for a strong showing on Oct. 27.
