Board debates mileage pay and recruitment strategy as poll‑worker applications lag

Board members discussed poll‑worker recruitment, training schedules and whether to add mileage or travel reimbursement to the poll‑worker compensation plan ahead of the June primary.

The director said staff had sent notices to more than 200 potential poll workers and had received about 80 applications so far, and that training would begin in May. She urged board members to recruit and to reach out to student voters who will be 18 by Nov. 3 so they can register and serve. She also noted that the county supplements the state poll‑worker pay with an additional $100.

Some members proposed offering mileage reimbursement based on IRS rates; the board discussed typical IRS mileage rates, with one participant citing 72.5¢/mile. Other members said mileage would add paperwork and cost and that offering pickup transportation or targeted recruitment in precincts may be more effective. After discussion, the board did not adopt a mileage policy; one member withdrew a motion to pursue mileage reimbursement and the consensus recorded was to not add mileage at this time.

Deputy Director Ava read the schedule of required certification and training offerings for board members and staff and asked members to register for an April 22 workshop; the director said staff would verify whether that workshop could count toward certification requirements.

Next steps: staff to continue recruitment, accept late poll‑worker applications after the March 4 suggested reply date if needed, finalize training details for May, and report back on whether workshop attendance can substitute for required virtual certification.