Plaistow approves purchase of three VotingWorks machines, will pursue grant funding

The Plaistow Board of Selectmen voted to recommend that the town manager purchase three VotingWorks voting machines, an accompanying laser printer, ink and an annual maintenance package for a total price of $21,000.

Select Chair Mr. Coy opened discussion by noting the town’s existing machines are about 20 years old and parts are no longer serviceable. A Selectman who attended a demonstration in Sandown said the VotingWorks unit was “much smoother” and more user friendly and that it will allow voters and the public to see how votes were cast at the end of election nights. The board noted the machines would reduce lines during busy elections and provide redundancy if a machine fails.

A motion was made to recommend to the town manager that the order be placed for three VotingWorks machines, the accompanying printer, ink and the annual maintenance package for $21,000. The motion was seconded. The board voted in favor; the motion carried.

Board members and staff said they will pursue a grant that provides $3,500 per machine (totaling $10,500) to offset the town cost; with the grant the net cost to the town was described in discussion as roughly $10,500. The board noted the grant’s availability may be time-limited and said placing the order promptly would preserve eligibility for that funding.

The vote recorded at the meeting was voice approval (“Aye”); no roll-call vote with individual tallies was taken or recorded in the minutes.

The purchase authorization directs the town manager to place the order; the board also approved pursuing the grant application or grant reimbursement as discussed.