Williston board sets 6:30 p.m. ballot‑dropbox closing time, reviews poll‑worker coverage

The Williston Board of Civil Authority reviewed town‑meeting logistics on June 28 and agreed to set the ballot‑dropbox closing time at 6:30 p.m. on election day to standardize handling and reduce last‑minute entries.

Staff member (speaker 5), who is coordinating election logistics, told the board that in past years she has locked the dropbox around 6:30 p.m. on election day and recommended making that the official closing time. "I would propose that we give it a time that the ballot box closes at 06:30 PM of an election," she said. Members responded that the proposal sounded reasonable and that staff would physically secure the box and transport ballots to the armory after closing.

The board also discussed poll‑worker assignments and possible extra coverage the Monday before the town meeting. Staff said higher check‑in volume on Monday nights sometimes requires more workers and asked members to sign up where possible; several members agreed to be available and staff said she would follow up by email to finalize assignments.

Members discussed seating and identification for non‑residents and journalists, noting the town historically keeps a back section for visitors and the media to avoid confusion during voice votes. One member said recent out‑of‑town interest tied to an ICE protest makes it prudent to mark non‑voter sections and station a staff member to discourage interruptions.

A board member asked whether printed town reports and budget materials could be available at town meeting for attendees who want hard copies; staff confirmed printed reports are placed at the check‑in table on the day of the meeting and materials are available online in advance.

The board concluded by reminding members staff will finalize assignments by email and confirming the logistics decisions for the upcoming town meeting.