Recent media reports have raised some concerns regarding changes in polling places from prior years. Here are the facts:
- On January 8, 2018 the Moorhead City Council voted to designate the official polling places for the City of Moorhead upon a recommendation from the City Clerk’s office. Some of the polling places remained the same and others were recommended changes from the 2016 election polling locations because certain sites were no longer available, were not accessible, or voter turnout was low at those locations. Note that the polling site for MSUM had 5 voters for the 2016 election primary, and the polling site for Concordia had 3 voters for the 2016 election primary.
- While the precinct locations did not change after January 8, 2018, the January 8, 2018 resolution incorrectly identified the precincts for some polling locations, which was corrected by resolution of the City Council on May 29, 2018.
- The City Attorney has consulted with the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office and also reviewed the findings of the City Clerk regarding the unavailability of some polling locations and determined that she had made valid determinations and that the City actions were in compliance with state law pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 204B.16, subsection 1 (2).
- In accordance with Minnesota law, the City has provided written notification of all polling changes to registered voters. The City provided notice beyond that required by Minnesota law and notified all households in the City, regardless of whether registered voters resided at the household, and regardless of whether the polling location had changed.
- Thus, as a result, the City Council’s designation of polling places on January 8, 2018, as amended and corrected by the May 29, 2018 resolution is in full force and effect.
- The polling locations used in the August 8 primary election were duly authorized and proper. They will not and cannot change for the general election.
- cityofmoorhead.com includes a button to “FIND YOUR POLLING PLACE,” ward and precinct map, and other election information. If the public has any questions concerning the location of their poll please contact the City clerk’s office at 218.299.5304.
There have been inquiries about how to ensure on-campus students at MSUM and Concordia are aware of and able to access their polling sites.
- MSUM campus residents vote at Grace United Methodist Church, 1120 17 St S, just blocks from campus.
• Concordia campus residents vote at First Presbyterian Church, 2900 5 St S. This location is approximately 1.5 miles from campus. Recognizing that some students do not have transportation, the City is committed to ensuring that a shuttle bus is available to transmit students on Election Day and working with Concordia to supplement their efforts.
- The City will also look at changes for future elections that allows good utilization of election staffing resources and makes it as convenient as possible for the campus populations.
Lisa Bode, Governmental Affairs Director, 218.299.5372
