August 21, 2006
700 poll workers needed for Election Day
New accessible voting will require extra worker at every polling place
Looking for a way to support democracy and meet other civic-minded residents? Sign up to be a King County Elections poll worker. Poll workers help safeguard the elections process by being responsible for opening and closing their polling place on Election Day and instructing voters on proper voting procedures.
There is paid training, and the position mainly requires attentiveness and a commitment to helping people navigate the election process.
Margery Hedman, of Shoreline, became a poll worker in the 1970s to stay busy when her kids went off to school. At age 75, she is one of King County's most experienced poll workers and hopes others will consider helping out at the polls on Sept.19, 2006.
"I work at the polls because I want to see for myself that things are done right," she said. "I keep saying I'm going to retire but as long as the county needs me, I'll keep showing up."
New this year
As required by federal law, King County is rolling out new accessible voting units or AVUs at each polling place for this election. The machines will give voters with limited or partial vision and other disabilities the chance to vote a secret ballot for the first time. It also means King County must add more people to its cadre of 4,000 poll workers.
"This is one of the most important civic services our citizens can perform to support our democratic process," said Jim Buck, interim director of King County Records, Elections and Licensing Services. "It is rewarding work and more important than ever in helping to build public confidence in the integrity of our elections."
Poll workers in King County receive $118.27 for their service on Election Day, and additional payment for a four-hour training. Election Day begins at 6 a.m. and ends once the procedures for closing a polling place are completed, around 9 p.m.
Those interested in becoming a poll worker should call 206-296-1606.
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