IMMEDIATE ADOPTION
Number
200621
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. JOHNSON
Title
Resolution relating to locations for in-person absentee balloting in the city of Milwaukee.
Analysis
This resolution directs the Election Commissioner to provide additional in-person absentee polling locations in the City for the 2020 General Election.
Body
Whereas, Voting is both a right and the vital core of a healthy democracy; and
Whereas, The COVID-19 pandemic has generated an increased interest in absentee voting, with 80% of ballots cast in the City Spring Election being absentee ballots; and
Whereas, Voting by mail is not necessarily the best option for every voter; and
Whereas, The City is committed to facilitating the right to vote while minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19; and
Whereas, The goal of the City is that each eligible voter will be able to cast a ballot and have that ballot counted; and
Whereas, In the August 11, 2020 Partisan Primary, the City experienced an unprecedented drop in voters using the Zeidler Municipal Building and Zablocki Library, smaller venues where social distancing is difficult, but an increased turnout in voters using the larger Midtown Center location where social distancing is possible to a greater extent; and
Whereas, Offering in-person absentee voting at larger sites offering greater opportunities for social distancing throughout the city may further racial equity and access to in-person voting opportunities; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the attached list of additional in-person absentee polling locations for the 2020 Partisan Primary (already conducted) and General Election as attached to this file is approved.
Requestor
Drafter
LRB 176305-2
Tea B. Norfolk
8/31/20