AGENDA DATE: 9/8/2020
TITLE:
Title
Early Voting - Outline of Election Preparations
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Election Preparations
ITEM TYPE: Regular Information Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Henry, Stewart, Washburne
PRESENTER (S): Lance Stewart
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Doug Walker
BACKGROUND: In 2019, the Commonwealth of Virginia passed a law enabling citizens to vote in person, with no requirement to provide an excuse, for a period beginning 45 days before each election, beginning with the upcoming November 3rd 2020 election. Though use of satellite polling locations is allowed, localities are required to provide this “Early Voting” option to citizens at the Office of the Voter Registrar. Albemarle County’s Department of Voter Registration and Elections is located at the Fifth Street County Office Building, which is shared by the Department of Social Services, Albemarle County Police Department, and Albemarle County Fire Rescue. Since the passage of that law, and subsequent amendments, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges to ensure that voting precincts are safe for citizens, staff and elections officials.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission: To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all citizens through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: County staff have worked closely with the Albemarle County Electoral Board to develop plans to ensure the health of the public, staff and volunteers at the County Office Building during the Early Voting period. Plans include COVID-19 best practice protection measures, operational adjustments to mitigate the impact of parking limitations at the site and to other departments within the facility, and public communications effort will also be provided to inform residents of their options to vote safely. Lessons regarding COVID-19 protective measures learned during the recent election have been included in this plan, updated, and modified for the specific site of the Early Voting facility. A detailed schedule of Early Voting opportunities will also be provided. Staff will present an overview of these plans for the Board’s consideration.
BUDGET IMPACT: None
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Board receive this presentation for information.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A - Election Preparation for 2020 Presidential Election