Tanja Battle

The board discussed several topics, including an update on the search for an additional site, a request for a supplemental budget to cover expenses related to new election equipment, employee overtime, and the purchase of a new cargo van. The board also discussed the minimization of requirements for vendor packages from voting locations. The meeting addressed the postponement of the Presidential Preference Primary Election due to the COVID-19 pandemic and approved a change to move the East Macon 2 precinct polling location. Additional changes to polling locations were discussed due to the COVID-19 crisis and event scheduling conflicts. The board discussed a letter submitted to the Macon Water Authority attorney regarding concerns about an individual holding an elective office for which they may not be qualified. The board also discussed sending a notice to Bibb County voters encouraging them to vote by mail due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting addressed the relocation of the East Macon 4 polling place and approved early voting locations for the March 18th SPLOST election, including Sunday hours at the main office.

The meeting addressed the conduction of future meetings via teleconference due to the COVID-19 crisis. An update was provided on the preparation for the May 19, 2020 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election, including the mailing of absentee ballot applications to all active voters in Georgia. Discussions also involved a supplemental budget request to cover expenses for new voting equipment and compliance with new legislation and State Election Board Rules. The board discussed the definition of 'qualified' in the Macon Water Authority's charter and the status of a candidate for Macon Water Authority, District 2. The board approved moving the May 21, 2020 board meeting to May 22, 2020, and discussed the use of Webinar Software for training poll workers and re-assessing polling place availability.

The meeting addressed the approval of the consolidated certification of returns for the January 5, 2021, General & Special Nonpartisan Runoff Election. Discussions also included the implementation of a new employee pay scale, the need for additional staff due to increased procedural changes and a politically charged atmosphere, and a request for an extension to spend down remaining grant funds. The board also discussed hazard pay for election workers, postal service issues with ballot delivery, and an incident involving an elections technician acting unprofessionally. Additionally, the board addressed legal opinions on mask requirements and the nomination of an At-Large member for a new term.

The meeting included an executive session to discuss pending litigation. The agenda covered a discussion regarding nomination for the At-Large Board Member for the 2021-2023 term, updates on HB 575 (Bill for OLOST Other Local Option Sales Tax), FY 2022 Budget Submission, CTCL Grants, items from the Chief Registrar, items from Board Members, items from the County Attorney including a resolution for the appointment of the At-Large Board Member and Civil Action Suit Case No. 1:21-cv-01284-ELR, and discussion on additional office space concerns and liability issues.