Board of Election Commissioners 09/08/2026

The City of Worcester Board of Election Commissioners held a meeting on September 8, 2026, primarily discussing polling location changes and election operations. A significant portion of the meeting focused on concerns raised by Councilor Fzolo regarding the relocation of polling places for Ward 5, Precincts 1 and 2, including the move from Addison Street Apartments to Worcester Academy Athletic Center and the current location at North High School. The councilor expressed that these moves could discourage voter turnout and cause confusion, urging the commission to reconsider and possibly return polling places to their original locations. The clerk and commissioners responded with data showing no significant voter complaints or turnout decline at the new locations and noted efforts to notify voters via postcards and public service announcements. The commission agreed to keep the current locations for the upcoming election and to revisit the issue at the next meeting, potentially exploring alternative sites. Additionally, the meeting covered preparations for the November election, including early voting schedules and central tabulation plans. The clerk also provided an update on the potential acquisition of new, smaller Automark voting machines to replace aging equipment, with consideration for trial use in future elections. The commission acknowledged the excellent work of election staff and discussed scheduling a post-election meeting for review.