Phoenix voters can vote by mail in the May 20 election on a ballot measure that would extend the existing sales tax for parks and preserves that is scheduled to expire in 2009.

A new state law changed the process for early voting by mail for this election. The new law replaced the city early voting list by creating a new county Permanent Early Voting List that is used for all elections, including city elections.

Voters on this new list will now automatically receive a ballot by mail unless they notify the City Clerk that they do not want to be mailed a ballot for the election.

Previously, voters on the city’s Permanent Early Voting List had to sign and return a request form to receive a ballot by mail.

The City Clerk mailed postcards to all 204,000 registered voters in Phoenix who are on the new permanent early voting list.

Voters who received the postcards who do not want a ballot by mail for this election may notify the City Clerk by mailing the postage-paid return postcard so it is received by April 5. Voters who want to receive a ballot by mail do not need to return the postcard.

Voters who are not on the permanent list may receive a ballot by mail by submitting a signed request by May 9.

Early ballots will be mailed beginning about April 21.

The election is open to all Phoenix residents who are registered and reside within the city limits at least 29 days prior to the election.

For more information, visit phoenix.gov or call 602-261-VOTE (8683) OR 602-534-2737/TTY.