Manchester BCA adopts poll-watcher and politicking policies, OKs ballot drop box

At its July 29 meeting the Manchester Board of Civil Authority ratified a set of policies governing poll watchers, politicking at the polling place, and the use and location of an outdoor ballot drop box at Manchester Town Hall.

A notable amendment, proposed by Frank Kropa and seconded by Barbara Powers, added the requirement that "pollwatchers will be directed to the presiding officer for guidance at the beginning of their shift," language the board adopted unanimously. The written poll-watcher guidelines circulated with the meeting materials instruct watchers to remain quiet, wear an identifying badge, be assigned seats by the presiding officer, and direct any questions to election officials rather than intervening with voters.

The politicking and signs policy reiterates state law (17 V.S.A. § 2508): politicking inside the building is prohibited, campaign apparel should be removed or covered inside the polling place, and a designated area in the parking lot may be used for campaign materials and polling outside of the building. The BCA also ratified use of an outdoor ballot drop box at Manchester Town Hall; Barbara Powers moved and Rebecca Nawrath seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.

The changes take effect for upcoming election activity, including preparations for the August 11 election-day staffing and the November 3 general election.