County springs for new Election tech

Young County Commissioners approved the purchase of eight new poll pads with digital printers to speed voter check-in at polling places in the upcoming May 6 local elections. County Election Administrator Kaitlyn Mosley showed the commissioners the plastic tub full of cords, papers and other gear that poll workers must organize to set up a polling place, and compared it to the sleek carrying case for the poll pads.

“It’s really hard for my poll workers to keep everything organized,” she said.

The eight poll pads and printer with flips stands and carrying cases cost the county $5,510, and Ms. Mosley expects them to process voters in 35 to 40 seconds, cutting down waiting times and reporting election results faster and more securely.

The filing deadline is Feb. 17 for candidates for Olney City Council, the Olney Independent School District Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors for the Olney Hamilton Hospital. If there are no challengers to the incumbents, the elections will not be held.