County commits to safe, smooth election process
The Franklin County commissioners approved a resolution Tuesday that reaffirms the safety and integrity of this year's general election and will help eliminate potential disruption.
The resolution reiterates the commissioners' commitment to conduct an orderly and peaceful electoral process.
“We're in such a critical time in our nation right now, and even here in Franklin County where I think this declaration is more than simply a statement,” Commissioner Kevin Boyce said.
“Typically, there are things that happen Election Day, but we'll do our best to ensure that the environment is as smooth and non-disruptive as possible.”
Along with pushing for electoral security, the resolution commits to all votes being properly tallied and all candidates and county residents respecting the voting decisions of the Ohio electorate.
“Words matter, and everything in this resolution matters,” Commissioner Marilyn Brown said. “We will do whatever we need to do to ensure voters can vote safely and that their votes will count.”
The resolution comes just weeks after the board approved a nearly $1 million grant from the nonprofit Center for Tech and Civic Life that was being used for advertising, early voting poll locations, additional cleaning materials and other related items.
So far, Franklin County joins Fairfield County in passing Tuesday's resolution.
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther said he and other city officials have been in close communication with local law enforcement to establish a line of communication in the event that “fringe groups” take measures to suppress voters.
“I think we can agree that any disruptions or undue interference in the casting of ballots and improper administration of ballots counting after Election Day would be detrimental to the safety and well-being of Ohioans,” he said.
State leaders are also pushing for this initiative, including Gov. Mike DeWine and other mayors across Ohio. Whether residents plan to vote by mail, at the early voting center or at polling locations on election day, Ginther said it's critical voters feel safe and are fully accounted for on Nov. 3.
County Commissioner John O'grady said the expectation is for other governing bodies to pass the resolution by next week.
“This is a broad-based effort to support this kind of language so that folks know that this is the type of an effort that all Ohioans should be behind,” O'grady said. ehopkins@dispatch.com @Earl_hopkins1