Letter: Reader concerned about city’s mask policy, ballot boxes
To the Editor-
I think it’s important for people in Stevens Point and surrounding areas to understand that voting districts can make their own policy regarding whether poll workers are required to wear masks during the February 15 primary.
Recently, at poll worker training classes in Stevens Point, attendees were informed by the clerk that they are required to wear a mask but, after inquiring to the mayor it was decided poll workers who wear them will get paid.
For those who are not willing to do that there seems to be a loophole. They can work without pay as a volunteer. Now, I acknowledge personal freedom to wear or not wear a mask, but I think not to pay someone a day’s work for a day’s pay isn’t right. One could call it discrimination.
On the subject of drop boxes, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has allowed absentee ballot boxes to remain in place for the February 15 statewide spring primary election local offices but said it will decide later about their legality going forward. Previously, a lower court ruling declared that no ballot boxes beyond those at the municipal clerk’s office as state appeals court put in place. They say it’s a timing issue.
In the last two years, concerned people have paid attention to local government, which I think has gone rogue. Many understand what’s been going on, are not happy about it, want change, and are willing to step up to run for open positions. It’s exciting to see new candidates come forward and I commend them because this is how it’s done when people want change.
What concerns me is “someone” decided to place two unsecured election boxes in the City of Stevens Point instead of securing them in the clerk’s office for our primary. I know what the Supreme Court said as noted above, but “if a decision was made to secure” an election drop box in the clerk’s office, that would have given the impression that the city truly cares about voter integrity, giving us some confidence.
I wonder how many voters have lost confidence because of these unsecured boxes.
This upcoming primary is very important because it’s the opportunity for change that we have been asking for and has fallen on deaf ears. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and listen to many of these candidates and I am impressed. Their hearts are in the right place. They have no hidden agenda. They want to make a positive difference in our community.
Please research incumbents and new candidates to make the best-informed decision for our community and pray our votes will be secure.
Sandra Bystrom
Plover