Polling center changes location

By Dale Liesch | Dadeville Record

Published Thursday, August 21, 2008

Voters who participate in the Dadeville municipal election will make their decisions at a different location on Aug. 26 than in the past.

The polling place in Dadeville has been moved from the National Guard Armory on Columbus St. in Dadeville to the city’s recreation center located at 600 E. Columbus St. right across the street from Dadeville Elementary.

Daine Sharpe, the city’s attorney helped prepare the paperwork to send to the Department of Justice, Voting Rights Section in order for the change to be official.

“We had to get permission from them before we could make the change,” said Sharpe. “They make sure when you change the polling place that it provides equal opportunity for all voters.”

Sharpe said there were a few things that led the city council to change the polling location but most importantly was the uncertainty about availability of the local armory.

“The local National guard is no longer using it, I think they may sell it,” said Sharpe. I’m not sure if the city can even use it. It’s just sort of up in the air right now.”

Another issue was the armory had no air conditioning and the recreation center does have air conditioning.

“It’s going to be hard to find poll workers who would work without air conditioning,” said Sharpe. “It’s going to be more comfortable for them.”

Sharpe cannot think of any possible problems and said the change would be in effect for future elections as well.

“I don’t see how this could affect the election in a negative way,” said Sharpe. “I can’t imagine any problems.”