Livonia council approves limited early-voting plan despite accessibility objections; clerk to provide curbside assistance

The Livonia City Council voted 5-1 to approve a two-day early-voting plan at city hall after members of the public raised accessibility and civil-rights concerns about holding early voting in a building they said lacks required accommodations.

"The early voting plan presented by the voting commission limits access to just 2 days in an inaccessible city hall," said Laura Janica, a resident who criticized the plan as inconsistent with federal and state disability-access laws. Janica said doors, ramps, and restrooms at city hall do not meet standards and called the arrangement a form of voter suppression if not made accessible.

The council heard related remarks from Deb Christiansen and other residents who urged accessible alternatives. In response, City Attorney Carter Fisher told council he did not believe offering additional early-voting days at city hall would be unlawful. "I don't think that would survive a challenge in court," Fisher said, arguing that early voting is an optional supplement to election day and absentee voting and does not deny voters their right to vote.

Clerk's office staff confirmed that curbside assistance is available for voters who request it. "It's always provided at any request for any election," the clerk said when asked about accommodations.

Council approved the early-voting plan with President McCullough voting no and other members voting to approve. The motion passed 5-1. The clerk's office and the city attorney said they will continue to provide information about available voting methods and assistance options.