Lowell officials weigh polling-site moves and online census ahead of Sept. 9 municipal election

The Rules and Election Subcommittee of the Lowell City Council met April 29 and reviewed plans to shift polling locations, launch an online annual census, and finalize key election dates ahead of the city’s preliminary municipal election on Sept. 9, 2025.

The discussion centered on making polling places more accessible and reducing pressure at heavily used locations while staff complete technical work to roll out an online census that officials hope will increase response rates and reduce lines on Election Day. Will Rosenberry, director of elections for Lowell City, briefed the committee on the timeline and operational details.

Rosenberry said the council previously set a preliminary election date of Sept. 9. "Nomination papers will be released June 10, and they’re gonna be due back for certification July 22," he told the subcommittee. He said the Election Commission will meet May 13 and is expected to recommend early-voting dates, times and locations for a council vote planned for May 20.

On polling locations, Rosenberry said Lowell High School was judged not to meet needs for a polling place and staff are seeking alternatives either within that same precinct or in adjacent precincts. He said the office is considering options that include other schools and downtown properties and that…