Commission approves permanent First Ward polling place at 1200 Washington Avenue

The Bay City City Commission voted Monday to establish 1200 Washington Avenue as the permanent polling location for the First Ward.

The resolution, introduced as "Resolution number 8," was moved by Commissioner Tenney and seconded by Commissioner Coakley. Commissioner Tenney made the motion: "Move to approve." After discussion about stability and accessibility of polling locations, the roll call vote was unanimous and the motion passed.

Why it matters: commissioners said consistent polling sites reduce voter confusion. Commissioner Cubitt said frequent changes in polling places are disruptive and asked what recourse the city has when private hosts withdraw permission. City election staff and county representatives said many polling locations are on property the city does not control and that, in this case, the county has agreed to provide a one-year arrangement at the health department address that will allow elections to proceed through 2026 while longer-term plans are clarified.

Discussion highlights: Commissioners and staff described the challenge of finding sites that meet accessibility standards and are available across election dates. City staff said new voter cards will be mailed to affected voters and that the old location will post notices directing voters to the new site on election day.

Vote and implementation: Commissioner Tenney moved the resolution and Commissioner Coakley seconded. The clerk called the roll; the motion carried. Staff will begin outreach to notify First Ward voters of the change, mail updated voter information cards and post directional signage at the former site on election day.

Ending: Commissioners said the change will be broadly publicized in the weeks before the next election; staff will include the new polling location on ballots, the city website and mailed voter notices.