Election Commission

Battle Creek City Election Commission 10 N. Division – Room 117 Battle Creek, Michigan Monday, April 12, 2010 11:00 A.M. Present: City Attorney Eileen Wicklund, City Assessor Steven Hudson, and City Clerk Deidre Laser Others: Sarah McGinnis Absent: None Call to Order: City Clerk Deidre Laser called the meeting to order at 11:18 AM and advised the purpose of the meeting was to authorize expenditures and to hire Election Inspectors for the may 4, 2010, School Election. Clerk Laser presented the minutes from the previous meeting for approval. A motion was made by Steven Hudson, supported by Attorney Eileen Wicklund, to approve the minutes from October 6, 2009. All yes. Motion carried. Clerk Laser presented a sample ballot to the Election Commission and noted that the City of Battle Creek will assist with administering the Battle Creek and Pennfield School elections as both Lakeview and Harper Creek signed agreements to hold elections in the odd years in May. As Election Coordinator, it is the responsibility of Calhoun County to order the ballots for Battle Creek and Pennfield School systems, and ballots were ordered for 25% of the registered voters. A typical school election turnout ranges from 2-6%. Ms. Laser noted that she shifted the Climax Scotts voters for this election to Leroy Township and notified them by post card. Also, a few Battle Creek School voters who normally vote in a Lakeview Precinct were shifted to Precinct 23. Clerk Laser reported that she has condensed this election from 23 precincts to 11 precincts, based on the complexity of the ballot and expected voter turnout. Steven Hudson asked how many workers are required to work at each precinct. Clerk Laser responded that the law requires that three workers be appointed to each precinct. She added that most precincts will be staffed with four workers to allow for illness emergencies and breaks. Attorney Eileen Wicklund asked what the hours of operation are for Election Day workers. Clerk Laser stated the polls are open from 7 AM to 8PM and the election inspectors typically work a 16 hour day to allow for setup, voting, and closing requirements. Steven Hudson asked what costs are reimbursed by the schools. Clerk Laser responded inspector pay, the required election ads, rentals, any overtime, postage, and any delivery of equipment charges. Ms. Laser noted every effort is made to reduce costs where possible. A motion was made by Attorney Eileen Wicklund, supported by Steven Hudson, to authorize the City Clerk to expend the necessary funds and to hire Election Inspectors for the May 4, 2010, Election. All yes. Motion carried. Public Comments: None Commission Comments: Steven Hudson questioned a possible conflict regarding Eric Morris on the ballot. Attorney Eileen Wicklund responded there is no conflict as he will have no voting authority over City responsibilities. Steven Hudson asked if there is a conflict regarding demolitions. Attorney Eileen Wicklund responded that there is no issue. Adjournment: A motion was made by Steven Hudson, supported by Eileen Wicklund, to adjourn the meeting at 11:45 AM. All yes. Motion carried. DAL/sm