Mansfield Select Board votes to opt out of vote-by-mail for May local election

The Mansfield Select Board voted unanimously March 5 to opt out of offering universal vote-by-mail for the town's May local election.

Board of Registrars representative Jen asked the board to opt out, saying the town would not receive state reimbursement for postage and staffing for a local election and that the practice would "save around $5,000," according to her remarks. She also told the board that, unlike state elections, the town does not receive reimbursement for postage, election worker time or supplies.

Town staff described the practical effect: residents could still request mailed ballots individually, and in-person voting and absentee voting at the town clerk's office would remain available. Staff said there were currently no active requests for mailed ballots because the state did not mail the usual reminder postcards this calendar year.

Select Board members debated turnout concerns and cost. Member Michael said he opposed the opt-out initially because "the more people you can get to vote...more people are heard." After staff provided turnout data showing about 2.06 percent participation in last year's local mail option, Michael withdrew his objection and the motion passed unanimously.

The board did not set any additional changes to absentee or early in-person voting; those options remain available under existing town procedures.

The board's motion was: "Motion to opt out of conducting vote by mail for the May [local election]." The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.