Monroe County Election Board reviews candidate‑form policy, readies early voting site and polling locations

Monroe County — The Monroe County Election Board met March 5 to discuss candidate filing procedures, early voting logistics, polling locations and progress on the county’s new election operations facility.

Democratic Chair Penny Githins raised concerns that a candidate filing form had been altered after submission. County Clerk Nicole Brown said she did not believe the alterations constituted fraud; Election Supervisor Kylie Ferris said past practice allowed edits for accuracy, including name changes, but recommended the election board adopt a clear written policy going forward.

Ferris also outlined early voting plans, saying staff intend to set up the early‑voting site at full capacity with 10 poll books, six print devices and five checkouts to accommodate a potentially higher turnout and to avoid overnight equipment setup. Ferris reported voter‑registration totals of 75,081 active voters and 14,659 inactive voters, for 89,740 registered voters in the county.

Monroe County Building and Fleet Director Richard Krider said inspections for the new election headquarters at 501 North Morton Street have passed, occupancy has been set by the fire marshal, and the early voting area is near completion with an April 7 target date. Officials discussed phone‑line limitations that can push callers to voicemail; staff said a second county number was posted online and additional phone and computer hookups are being prepared.