http://cptv.vo.llnwd.net/o2/ypmwebcontent/Josie/jac110308advisorypanel.mp3
The Bridgeport Mayor's Election Advisory Panel released a report today (Thursday) detailing dozens of recommendations to change how Connecticut runs its elections. The proposal is meant to restore trust in the system after Bridgeport's infamous failure to order enough ballots during last November's elections.
One recommendation allows Secretary of the State Denise Merrill to recommend how many ballots a town should order. And, after review, it could allow her to force the town to order enough ballots for all of the town's registered voters.
Other recommendations include reducing the number of polling places, reducing the length of shifts for moderators and poll workers and improving costumer courtesy.
Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch says the elections systems across the state need to be more uniform.
“We, we really don’t get much out of local control in running elections, ah, other than, ah, an expense, a pain in the neck and a possible black eye.”
Finch says that it’s also important for residents to see professionally run elections done by well-trained people.
“The public should have a very sedate, well-run, calm place to not be hassled and go vote their mind.”
Finch says that voters' confidence in Connecticut will increase when they know their votes are safe.
