MANSFIELD — Poll worker training classes have been scheduled for the Nov. 8 General Election.
The first training class for new poll workers who have not worked previously is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue in the Upper Level Classroom (enter from front parking lot). This class will consist of an overview presentation of the election process, with a hands-on demonstration of the proper way to set up thevoting equipment. Compensation for attending this training in the amount of $25 is included with the workers’ check for working on Election Day.
The second training class for new poll workers is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Lower Level Classroom at the Longview Center. This class will consist of learning how to use the electronic poll books. Workers should attend both classes in order to receive the necessary training to be able to work the polls on Election Day. The compensation for this class will be $20, also payable on the paycheck for working the polls.
Additionally, class attendees will be issued a schedule of the days and times for regular poll worker training, which all poll workers must attend. This is a “Station” format, which allows one-on- one time to learn the procedures of specific duties such as Provisional/Paper ballots, etc. These sessions are held during the day and evening hours, and you may choose which day/time to attend. It is asked that workers stay at least 1 ½ hours at these stations to be eligible for the $20 class pay.
Poll Workers are compensated at the rate of $130 for regular Clerks, $140 for Presiding Assistants, $165 for Presiding Judges, and $175 for VLM’s (Voting Location Managers). Poll workers are required to assist with the set-up of the polling location on the Monday preceding an election. They are also required to work on Election Day from 5:30 a.m. until the close of polls at 7:30 p.m. and are required to stay until all the equipment has been dismantled and packed for transport.
Qualifications include the ability to lift the voting equipment, general clerical skills, and the ability to follow directions and work well with the public and co-workers. Poll workers must be a registered voter within Richland County. No taxes or social security contributions are deducted from the poll worker checks.
Voters who are interested in receiving this training and working on Election Day should contact the board office from 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Fridays at 419-774-5530 to register, as class size is limited.