Only two people provided comments during this week’s public hearing on whether to consolidate the Helen and Robertstown voting precincts in White County. The county’s board of elections is considering the change for several reasons, says chairman Dwayne Turner.
“For us, it’s to provide a more streamlined and efficient service. To the voters, to provide security for our equipment and security of the votes for the county,” said Turner.
White County Election Supervisor Akyn Bailey spoke of cost savings and said they can reallocate some poll workers to other precincts.
During the hearing, Helen City Commissioner Cinnamon Ruston addressed a couple of concerns she had about the use of Helen City Hall and parking.
James Harold McKay, who has been voting at the Robertstown precinct since 1955, asked that the precinct remain open.
The board took no action and Chairman Turner said they will have another public hearing in 30 days. That hearing is scheduled for February 24, 2022, at 5 p.m. in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room, located at 1235 Helen Highway Cleveland Georgia. A quorum will be in attendance.
