Poll Workers Denied Access to Meeting

(posted Nov 5)

The Speedway Redevelopment Commission's November 6 special meeting may disenfranchise poll workers. The meeting is set for 8 am in Speedway fire station 1 training room.

According to the Secretary of State Office election division, poll workers can't leave between 6 am to 6 pm. The Marion County Clerk's Office Election Division said the inspectors definitely can't leave and the other poll workers should not either.

One poll worker in Speedway said he could not go because he is working the election. He said his complaint represents all of the poll workers and preferred not to be identified.

Although the Indiana recognizes Election Day as a legal holiday, it does not forbid government from assembling. According to the Public Access Counselor, "the Open Door Law does not prohibit meetings on election day. It simply states that the public agency cannot hold a meeting at an unreasonable time of day. While it is unfortunate that those working the polls cannot attend the meeting, the public agency, when scheduling meetings, cannot possibly take into account the personal schedules of those who normally attend the meetings unless they are required to attend. The law simply states that the meetings must have proper notice and be open to the public."