Commission backs application to test vote-center model, commissioners raise access concerns for older voters

The Hamblen County Commission voted 13-0 Jan. 23 to support an application to the state to designate the county as a Vote Center County, a change that would replace many traditional polling places with a smaller number of centrally managed voting centers.

Public Services Committee Chairman Mike Richardson presented the measure as a step to pilot a system already used in larger Tennessee cities. Commissioners who spoke said the plan could make voting more convenient for some voters, reduce lines and concentrate resources, but several raised concerns about older residents’ access and parking at centralized sites.

Commissioners urged the election commission to return with specific site proposals and an outreach plan. Duane Neesmith and other members cited a downtown polling place they described as difficult for handicapped drivers as an example of why site selection and parking must be considered. Several members said additional staffing and public information will be necessary if the county proceeds.

Richardson said the application is to ask the state for permission to pilot the model; it is not a final decision to change polling locations. The commission approved the resolution to pursue the designation, and members asked that the election officials provide detailed plans for locations, handicapped access and voter notice before any change is implemented.