Electoral Board reviews November turnout, flags poll‑book and machine problems and outlines training steps

The Charlotte County Electoral Board on Dec. 1 reviewed its post‑election report for November and discussed problems with poll books and voting machines that were referred to vendor Dem‑Tech.

General Registrar Virginia Booth told the board the registrar’s packet included a holiday schedule for 2023, invoices for October and November, a budget synopsis through November and an election turnout spreadsheet. Booth reported 895 early voters; 280 absentee ballots were mailed, 200 were returned and verified, 10 were returned by the post office as undeliverable and five ballots remained uncured at the close of the election. Booth said election‑day payroll has been processed and that Dem‑Tech has been notified of the poll‑book and machine issues and will provide solutions.

The board discussed steps to reduce future problems and improve election operations. Chairman Glenn Baker submitted written observations and training recommendations, and board members emphasized four priorities: ensure officers of the election monitor the atmosphere outside polling places for voter and staff safety; provide separate, intensive training for precinct chiefs and assistant chiefs; set up a mock precinct that recreates real‑time election‑day problems for hands‑on training; and upgrade polling‑place signage.

The board approved minutes from Oct. 6 and Nov. 9 on a motion by Assistant Chair Glenwood Foster, seconded by Chairman Baker; the motion passed without objection. The registrar announced the office will be closed Dec. 23 and Dec. 26, 2022.

The board also moved into closed session later in the meeting to discuss personnel matters, then certified compliance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act upon return to open session. The meeting adjourned after members thanked Booth and her staff for their election preparations and training work.