Sutter County Elections is proud to announce its recognition with a prestigious national Clearinghouse Award from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), celebrating excellence in election administration. The county was awarded in the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Grants category for its outstanding use of HAVA funds to modernize elections. Known as the “Clearies,” these annual awards highlight the most innovative, sustainable, and replicable election programs across the nation. This year, the awards honor initiatives implemented during the high-turnout 2024 presidential election year.

Sutter County’s “Sutter Translate!” program is one of just 53 programs nationwide to receive a Clearie Award in 2024. As part of this groundbreaking initiative, the county introduced Pocketalk devices — state-of-the-art handheld translation tools that support over 84 languages through voice and image translation. These devices were deployed at every polling location across the county, empowering voters with essential language accessibility. Poll workers and staff received specialized training to ensure effective use, ensuring that every voter had access to vital information in a way that suited their needs.

This forward-thinking program was created in response to the county’s growing, diverse population and reflects Sutter County’s ongoing commitment to improving voter accessibility. Funded by HAVA grants, Sutter Translate! has made a significant impact, improving communication, boosting poll worker confidence, and providing better service across county departments. Additionally, these devices are used year-round at the Elections Office, Clerk of the Board, and Clerk-Recorder offices, assisting individuals with hearing or sight impairments through its visual and spoken translations.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award,” said Donna Johnston, Sutter County Registrar of Voters. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team. Sutter Translate! has been an incredible success, and we’re proud to be part of the effort to make elections more accessible and inclusive for all of our voters.”

The Clearie Awards play a vital role in fulfilling the EAC’s mission to support and share best practices in election administration. EAC Chairman Donald Palmer, Vice Chair Thomas Hicks, and Commissioners Christy McCormick and Ben Hovland praised this year’s awardees in a joint statement:

“Amid the high voter turnout in 2024, these Clearie-winning programs stand out for their innovation and impact. They demonstrate how local election offices are leading the way in creativity and problem-solving, offering practical solutions that can be replicated across the country. We are proud to shine a spotlight on these extraordinary efforts and celebrate their contributions to improving the election process for millions of voters.”

More information on the Clearies and each awardee is available on eac.gov.