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Waukesha committee unanimously backs changes to polling-place rules, citing reduced costs and new curb voting
Summary
The Ordinance and Licensing Committee voted Nov. 10 to recommend amendments to Waukesha Municipal Code section 1.03 to consolidate polling locations into mostly city-owned buildings, reduce staffing needs via Badger Books, and add measures such as curb voting and signage; members emphasized communication and voter access concerns.
Waukesha — The Ordinance and Licensing Committee voted unanimously on Nov. 10 to recommend that the Common Council consider amendments to Waukesha Municipal Code section 1.03 that would change how the city locates polling places.
Molly, a staff member who presented the proposal, said the cover sheet accompanying the draft ordinance ties the changes to the city’s strategic plan and explains that “due to the use of Badger books we need less poll workers to run our elections,” which reduces staff time and lowers costs associated with renting or paying to use noncity facilities.
The committee’s chair introduced the item and invited discussion. Ald. Helvinsleben praised the Clerk’s Office for packaging the proposal and said the move would pass cost savings to taxpayers. Ald. Manion and other members asked for clarity on how clerks determine what constitutes a reasonable distance for voters to travel; Molly said she would consult Katie, the city clerk, and follow up.
Committee member Dean urged caution about changing polling locations too often. “That in itself is disenfranchising the voter if we keep changing it,” he said, describing voters’ frustration when they arrive at a familiar building only to find the polling place moved.
A committee member identified as Steve said the plan discussed with the Clerk’s Office includes curb voting at some sites — where voters can cast ballots from their vehicles — and noted his district would use the expo center with curb voting available there.
Molly told the committee staff can place signage at former polling sites on election day and will run abundant communications through social media, the city newsletter and mailings to ensure residents are aware of changes.
Ald. Helvinsleben moved to approve the proposed amendments to ordinance section 1.03 as presented; Ald. Manion seconded. The motion passed by unanimous voice vote and will be forwarded to the Common Council for consideration.
The committee also asked staff to provide additional detail on distance guidelines and site selection choices for members who requested follow-up information.
