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Commission sets new permanent polling place for First Ward after Pere Marquette scheduling conflict
Summary
The commission approved a resolution establishing 1200 Washington Ave. as the First Ward’s permanent polling location after the Pere Marquette Depot became unavailable for a May election; the county offered a one-year agreement for the new site.
Bay City commissioners voted Wednesday to designate 1200 Washington Ave. as the permanent polling location for the city's First Ward after the Pere Marquette Depot informed the city it would be unavailable for a May election.
The resolution (item 8 on the regular agenda) was moved and approved after commissioners discussed continuity for voters and the limits of available locations. Commissioner Cubitt, who requested the item be pulled for discussion, said she was concerned about frequent polling-place moves and asked whether the city had any legal recourse with the Pere Marquette Depot. The clerk and staff said Pier Marquette’s unavailability for a specific date left the city with limited options and that the county had agreed to a one-year arrangement for the proposed new site, which staff said provides continuity through calendar year 2026 while the county determines longer-term plans.
A city clerk or election official said the county’s one-year agreement would allow staff to prepare and publicize the change, including mailing updated voter information cards and posting notices at the old precinct location. Commissioners emphasized the need for broad public notice to avoid confusion on election day.
The roll-call vote recorded all present commissioners in favor; the clerk recorded seven yes votes and the motion passed.
The resolution instructs staff to execute the agreement with the county and update voter notification materials and polling-place signage to reflect the move to 1200 Washington Ave.
