Council approves DS300 tabulators and gym floor coverings to speed and secure elections

The Fort Atkinson City Council on Dec. 2 approved two measures intended to improve local election operations: payment to Jefferson County for DS300 ballot tabulators and purchase of new gymnasium floor coverings and a storage rack to reduce trip hazards on election days.

Clerk Everett explained that Jefferson County vetted the new DS300 tabulators through the U.S. Elections Assistance Commission and will fund 50% of the machines for municipalities in the county. The per‑unit cost to the city was stated as $3,395; council authorized payment to Jefferson County not to exceed $10,185. Everett said the DS300s reduce processing and tabulation time compared with the older DS200 units and were included in the 2026 CIP budget (election equipment line, $25,000).

"These machines have been vetted and approved and they're ready to be delivered to us," Everett said, noting that the county offered staggered payment timelines and that adopting the DS300 will shorten post‑election tabulation times.

Clerk Herbert described worn floor mats used in the gym for voting that have produced wrinkles and one reported trip and knee scrapes on April 4, 2025. Staff obtained a vendor quote (Practice Sports) and the proposed replacement package includes floor coverings, a storage rack, and shipping from the vendor. The mats and rack were budgeted in the 2026 CIP; council approved the purchase not to exceed $12,863.25.

Herbert said the new storage rack will aid park and recreation staff in deploying and rolling the mats and reduce the physical strain and safety risks of current procedures. Council moved and approved both measures by voice vote.