Board approves referendum schedule and keeps voting hours at noon'8 p.m.; registrars to publish outreach materials

The Board of Selectmen reviewed proposed referendum dates, locations and poll hours on March 3 and approved the schedule as presented. The meeting included an extended discussion of whether to open polls from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (matching recent practice) or adhere to the town ordinance default of noon to 8 p.m. for non-state referenda.

Registrar staff (Ross and Sandra) explained the town ordinance adopted July 14, 2000, which states polls for referenda held on days other than state or town elections shall be open from noon to 8 p.m., with the board able to extend hours by resolution but not open earlier than 6 a.m. Registrar staff also warned of budget consequences: a full-day referendum typically costs about $6,000; shortening hours can save approximately $1,200'$2,400 per election depending on staffing and other provisions.

Board members weighed voter convenience and worker fatigue against the fiscal savings of shorter hours. One selectman noted a significant portion of voting historically occurs in the afternoon and argued that moving hours later could reduce costs without greatly reducing turnout. Concern was raised that changing hours mid-year might cause confusion, so the board emphasized advance publicity if hours change next year.

After discussion, a motion to hold referendum hours consistent with the town ordinance (noon'8 p.m.) passed with six votes in favor and one opposed (Rodney). The board directed registrars and staff to publish the schedule and a public information campaign (website, Bold Bulletin, handouts at town offices, library and senior center) to ensure voters know the hours and locations well in advance.