Public raises concerns about Midland County canvass procedures; bureau explains remedies and guidance

Renita Bonadies of Homer Township addressed the Board of State Canvassers with concerns about how Midland County conducted its post‑election canvass and reported early‑voting write‑in results. Bonadies said county returns showed only early‑voting totals rather than precinct‑level write‑in tallies and described attempts to obtain records through email and FOIA without satisfactory responses.

Bonadies also said that, during canvass meetings, review teams spoke softly in breaks that the public could not hear, raising questions about whether the process operated as an open public meeting. She said she has recordings showing difficulty hearing what precinct reviewers discussed and asked whether the public should expect clearer, audible proceedings.

Bureau staff responded that FOIA requests had been processed where received, explained the bureau provides guidance and training to county clerks and noted available remedies including recounts or legal action if someone wishes to contest results. Staff also acknowledged that early voting introduces additional canvass workload and said clerks have sought expanded canvass time in legislation; the Department of State supports that but is constrained by current law.

Staff advised callers to direct procedural concerns to the bureau or the secretary of state and to consult local counsel if seeking court remedies. The board thanked Bonadies for raising the issue and said staff would consider procedural guidance and training updates as needed.