The Russell County Board of Supervisors voted Jan. 5 to change the Cleveland precinct polling place from the community center to the fire hall after the county registrar, Diane Shorter, outlined safety and equipment‑security concerns.

Shorter said school closures and the loss of access to the former town hall left the county without a suitable emergency polling site in Cleveland; the community center’s vulnerability to flooding and limitations for secure storage made the fire hall a better choice. "It is safer and more secure for our equipment, for the materials, and easier access for the machine custodians to deliver the materials," Shorter said.

Shorter and staff reported that the site had been reviewed for ADA compliance and that the Department of Elections had encouraged moving to a polling place that minimizes risk to equipment and personnel. She noted time sensitivity because the General Assembly could trigger special elections this spring and that voters must be notified of any change.

Board members moved and seconded the ordinance to change the polling place; the motion carried by voice vote. County staff said they would provide required notice to voters and update election materials to reflect the new polling location.

Source: Registrar presentation and board vote (transcript beginning SEG 1332).