Hart BOC Rejects Registrar’s Request for Four Part-time Staffers

When early voting begins in Hart County, the County Registrar’s office will have just three part-time staffers – not the four requested by Registrar John Stercho.

The Hart County Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday to go with three employees citing past elections.

Stercho came before the board Tuesday requesting four part-timers because of the magnitude of the November elections.

Early voting runs from October 13 to October 31st and includes one Saturday early voting day on October 25th.

Voters will be deciding on a Governor, U.S. Senator, Secretary of State, Attorney General, State School Superintendent, Agriculture Commissioner, Lieutenant Governor and Insurance Commissioner at the state and federal level as well as deciding on local races.

That means advance voting at most county registrar or board of elections offices is expected to be heavier than normal.

Stercho said three part-timers would not be able to handle the amount of foot traffic expected.

“When you place three people in the office, they’re sealed in the office for nine hours,” he said. “Breaks have to be worked around because three people have to be visible at all times while voters are in the office.”

But Commission Chair Joey Dorsey said three staffers have always worked in past elections and three is the minimum required by the state.

“We have always funded this at the minimum,” Dorsey said. “I know you have contacted the Secretary of State’s office to confirm that minimum. I have contacted the Secretary of State’s office to confirm that minimum.”

Commissioners also noted Diane Dobbs, Deputy Registrar could work in the office during early voting, which would give Stercho the four staffers he says he needs.

After more discussion, commissioner Bill Myers motioned to approve three part-time staffers, instead of four and that motioned passed unanimously.