Board of elections 'fortunate' for poll workers

There are 60 voter precincts within Hancock County, and the Hancock County Board of Elections needs 300 people to work the polls this election. While some counties are struggling to find Precinct Election Officials, Board of Elections Deputy Director Lori Miller said they've been very fortunate this election. She said a lot of people have signed up, but they're still accepting alternates. "Usually we're begging for help, but I already have 15 alternates," she added. Each precinct needs two registered voters from each party. Nonpartisan voters are also eligible to assist at the polls. The board also asks to have at least one assistant per precinct. Days usually stretch from 5:30 a.m. until the booths close at the end of the day. "They usually will leave around 8:15 pm," Miller said. Responsibilities for poll workers include signing voters in, setting up supplies, passing out "I voted" stickers and shutting down. The position is paid, plus training classes for new workers and mileage. Alternates should be available day-of, in case a regular employee has an emergency or sickness and cannot make it. They also need to be willing to have to travel to other precincts if needed. "The only requirement is they need to be a registered voter in Hancock County," Miller said. Those interested can apply by calling the Hancock County Board of Elections office at 419-422-3245 or online at ohiosos.gov "We'll gladly take anyone willing to help," Miller said.