Longtime “06880” reader Ellin Spadone writes:
I am a senior resident of Westport, recovering from a fractured leg and confined to a wheelchair. I was concerned about casting my vote, since the application for an absentee ballot came late.
I called the Town Clerk. He informed me that I could find the help I needed.
After seeing my license, 2 volunteers at Town Hall brought my ballot to the car, and assisted me in filling it out.
I am so appreciative of this accommodation, and grateful to live in a town where seniors are treated with such civility and sensitivity.
Difficult-to-navigate steps — but easy voting.
As we all know, this election is crucial. I am indebted to the people who helped me fulfill my responsibility.
Early voting runs through Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium. Tomorrow (Thursday, October 31), the hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.
“06880” reader Andrew Small adds:
Voting last Saturday was such an easy experience!
The highlight of our trip was being able to bring our 4-year-old daughter to the polls.
She had been a little uneasy about going. She knew she cannot vote until she turns 18, but she really wanted the “I VOTED” sticker.
A poll worker pulled her aside, and asked her to vote in the “Princess Poll.” Our daughter proudly voted for Elsa, and was thrilled to wear her “I VOTED” sticker the rest of the weekend.
Thank you so much to all the poll workers for working on behalf of our democracy last weekend, and ahead these next 6 days.
(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)
Those stories so touched my heart. We have also called for a number of questions this year, yes they are always amazing!
Dear Dan,
Endless thanks for posting about Ms. Spadone’s and Mr. Smalls’
letters about their early election experiences.
Getting the word out about the process, particularly the seamless “Curbside Voting” process in place for those who prefer to vote in person rather than by absentee ballot.
In the almost 20 hours I’ve worked as an Election Official for our first early voting for a national election, I can attest to the observation that the reader’s experiences can be multiplied by each of the 5,000+ voters that have cast their ballots at Town Hall.
Considering that everyone engaged in Westport’s early voting service started work on October 21 with a brand-new computerized and very public process, a daily glitch or two a day is an extraordinary record.
Thanks again for getting the word out on this long-awaited process.
I voted today and was amazed at how efficient and smooth the process was from start to finish! There can be no question about the integrity of this election. Thank you to all who have made voting seamless and easy.
I just voted at 3:30 p.m. and missed the crowd. I went to elementary school there and the stairs were a hassle then too.
Only thing easier than voting is walk down the steps, then across the roadway, put your books on the edge, lay down on the grass sideways and PUSH OFF! Hold those arms in tight, legs a little up and you just might make it almost to the stone wall at the bottom. Pretty sure I got close to it several times between1954 & whenever I last tried (4th grade?). Definitely not as an oh-so-old-6th-grader.
I voted yesterday and, as required, I put my ballot in the provided envelope. After the third time I licked the envelope, my husband told me to remove the strip on the flap to expose the sticky line that would seal the envelope. : -)
Not alone, Joyce. My wife had to instruct me. :)}
Love this.
All great experiences from helpful and dedicated poll workers. We owe them all our gratitude and appreciation. Just to know Town Hall has wheelchair access and an elevator transport to every main floor.