Manchester BCA authorizes early tabulator deposit and clarifies appointment authority; amendment passes 8-1

The Manchester Board of Civil Authority moved to allow early deposit of absentee ballots into the tabulator "as needed depending on early/absentee voting interest," a measure Anita Sheldon said helps the flow on election day. The motion was seconded by Rebecca "Becky" Nawrath and carried unanimously.

The board also authorized the presiding officer to appoint BCA members to deliver ballots to ill or disabled voters as needed. That motion, moved by Barbara Powers and seconded by Frank Kropa, passed unanimously.

On a related item about appointing assistant election officials, the board approved an amendment proposed by Frank Kropa requiring that appointments be made "with the understanding that in the event of a recount or reconsideration, the presiding officer confirms election officials with individuals that are part of the recount or reconsideration," seconded by Charles "Chic" Murphy. That amendment and the motion as amended carried 8-1, with Rebecca Nawrath recorded as opposing. The change was entered to ensure clarity about who would serve in the rare event of a recount or reconsideration.