Published: September 14, 2008 10:22 pm            

LEWISTON: Ballots may be taken at town hall for general election.

Resident’s voting in Tuesday’s primary elections were stuck traveling to newly designated — and frustratingly inconvenient, in some cases — polling sites, but relief may be on the horizon for the general elections.

Since learning the Niagara County Board of Elections has cut back Lewiston’s number of polling locations from eight to three, Newlin has been pushing for a better compromise that could include allowing voting at the centrally located town hall rather than Bond Lake Park.

“Bond’s Lake is the last place I figure would be used as a polling place,” said Councilman Michael Johnson. “We spent all this money on handicapped accessibility in town hall. It doesn’t make sense.”

Councilman Sean Edwards added that it was “crazy” for residents, especially senior citizens, to drive up to 10 miles to vote at Bond Lake.

Supervisor Fred Newlin has been openly critical of the elections board decision, saying input wasn’t sought from Lewiston officials before the change was made. He’s hopeful by November when turnout is expected to be high, new polling sites will be implemented.

He expects to receive a decision from the county by the end of the month.

        

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