Oxford commissioners adopt resolution opposing proposed relocation of early voting site

The Oxford Board of Commissioners voted June 9 to adopt a resolution opposing a county proposal to relocate the city’s early voting site from the City of Oxford Public Works building to the Granville County Exposition Center.

Commissioner Karen McGee read the resolution, saying moving “the site away from a central, familiar location can make it harder for working families, seniors, and those without reliable transportation to cast their vote.” The resolution, read into the record by McGee, asks decision‑makers to provide a transparent, data‑driven explanation and urges citizens to engage in the process.

Staff told the board that the Granville County Board of Elections proposed the relocation; the commissioners said the change had not been clearly explained to them. After McGee read the resolution, a motion to adopt was made and approved by voice vote. No roll‑call tally was recorded in the minutes; the chair declared the resolution approved.

Commissioners stressed the practical consequences for voters if a familiar downtown location is moved farther away. Commissioner Scottie Brooks, among others, urged residents to attend the Board of Elections meeting referenced in the discussion; commissioners noted the county board was scheduled to meet to consider the change and encouraged turnout.

The resolution does not require the county to change the site; it reflects the Oxford board’s official position and asks county decision‑makers to consider access for working families and seniors and to explain the reasons for any relocation. The county Board of Elections will ultimately decide whether to move the early voting location. Oxford’s resolution asks for a transparent, community‑centered process.