The City of Ferndale has made some changes to the voting precincts—but don’t panic, we’re here to explain.

The City’s precincts have been consolidated from 9 to 6 precincts. While your precinct number may have changed, only a small number of voters will be assigned to a different polling location. Please see the new precinct map for reference.

What is the difference between a precinct and a polling location?

A precinct refers to a geographic area defined by the local Election Commission. Michigan law limits the number of voters who reside within that area. All voters within a precinct will have the same ballot for each election (with limited exceptions).

A polling location defines the place or facility where residents cast their vote. Sometimes, voters of multiple precincts vote at the same polling location.   

Where do I vote?

These are the new precinct numbers and polling locations:

1. Renaissance Vineyard Church | 1841 Pinecrest Dr, Ferndale MI 48220
2. Ferndale High School | 881 Pinecrest Dr, Ferndale, MI 48220
3. Ferndale High School | 881 Pinecrest Dr, Ferndale, MI 48220
4. University High School | 2521 Bermuda St, Ferndale, MI 48220
5. Ferndale Area District Library | 222 E Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
6. Ferndale Free Methodist Church | 1950 Woodward Heights, Ferndale, MI 48220

Please see the map above for reference. 

What has changed?

Precincts 7, 8, and 9 have been consolidated and merged with existing precincts 1-6. For most voters, the polling location has not changed. Only voters who reside in the now former Precinct 8, north of E. Nine Mile Road, will see a change to their polling location. Please see the attached map for reference. Voters who reside within the yellow borders are now assigned to the polling location at University High School, located at 2521 Bermuda St, Ferndale, MI 48220. All properties outside the yellow border will vote at their normal polling location, despite the change in precinct number.

Will the City Clerk’s Office notify me if I’m impacted?

Once the Michigan Bureau of Elections Office changes the voter registration database, the City Clerk’s Office will distribute and mail new voter ID cards to all impacted voters. Look out for those in the mail in the coming weeks.

Why are we doing this?

More voters are choosing to vote by mail or early in-person. State law has recently permitted the increase in number of voters per precinct—up to 4,999. By consolidating precincts, the City of Ferndale will save an estimated $3,375-6,750 per election in wages alone, along with savings from election equipment replacement and required testing. It also grants more efficiency in the in-person voting process. It makes it easier for staff to provide a better flow for voters and deploy and retrieve the equipment.

If I vote by mail, how will this impact me?

Even though your precinct number will be different on the ballot, the voting process will remain the same. Voters on the permanent absentee ballot list and permanent absentee application list will remain on their respective lists. You do not need to re-submit the forms.

What can I do if I have more questions?

We know you may have questions, and the City is here to help ensure residents can cast their vote. Please visit the City Clerk's Voting page for more information or email elections@ferndalemi.gov.