COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Thousands of Central Ohioans will head to the polls Tuesday to vote on school levies, emergency tax levies and bond issues.
While many communities are desperate for extra operating money, whether or not their issues pass -- it is costing you money.
Voter turnout is expected to be low -- around ten percent -- on Tuesday, with between 70,000 and 100,000 voters. That's a fraction of the 550,000 voters who took part in November's presidential election. But that doesn't mean the costs are keeping pace.
State law requires the county to keep all polling locations open for the May election.
There are 545 voting spots in Franklin County -- at a cost of about $1,100 per location -- totaling nearly $600,000. The county can't lower that bill without a change in law.
"I think the law was built for a system that technology has caught up with and probably surpassed," said Michael Stinziano, Franklin County Board of Elections director.
Stinziano said he hopes that in future elections, the county will be able to save money by conducting the vote by mail or consolidating voting locations.
"I think there is a need and recognition for a change," Stinziano said.
In a report to Gov. Ted Strickland and statehouse leaders last week, Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner pushed lawmakers to create a process to reduce polling locations in primary and general elections.
Stinziano said it's too late to save money for Tuesday's Special Election or an August Special Election, but if legislators act this summer, they could cut costs for November.
For additional information, stay with nbc4i.com and NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com -- Where Accuracy Matters.
To submit a story idea or news tip, e-mail us at stories@nbc4i.com.
NBC 4 POLITICS: Headlines, Interactives & Video
MORE: NBC 4 Local News | Local Crime News
NBC 4 SPORTS: Sports News, Video
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement