Randolph County Board Elections requests $329K for new voting equipment and staff

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners meeting on June 5, 2025, focused on budget requests from various departments, with significant discussions surrounding the Board of Elections and the need for updated equipment and staffing.

The Board of Elections presented a request for funding to acquire new equipment and an additional staff position. Director Melissa Kershner highlighted the challenges faced during recent elections, including outdated technology that slowed down the processing of ballots and results. The current equipment, over a decade old, has been insufficient to meet new state election laws that require faster reporting and auditing processes.

Kershner emphasized the necessity of a new high-speed tabulator, which would significantly enhance efficiency, particularly during early voting and election night. The proposed budget includes approximately $329,000 for this equipment, which aims to streamline operations and improve transparency in the electoral process. The board also discussed the importance of hiring an assistant director to manage the increased workload resulting from these changes.

Board Chair Margaret Magarian supported the request, noting the growing demands on the elections office and the need for adequate staffing to ensure accurate and timely election results. She expressed confidence that the new equipment would facilitate smoother operations and enhance public trust in the electoral process.

The commissioners acknowledged the importance of these requests and the impact they would have on future elections, particularly as the county's population continues to grow. The board plans to review the budget proposals further and aims to implement the new equipment in time for upcoming municipal elections.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining a transparent and efficient electoral process while addressing the challenges posed by evolving election laws and increasing voter demands.