MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Marquette City Election Board today appointed election inspectors, as well as separate early-voting inspectors and inspectors to the absent-voter counting board. They then conducted an accuracy test of voting equipment.
“It actually ensures the voter that their vote is being counted correctly, that whatever they’re putting on that ballot is actually going to be counted correctly and for the right races,” says Marquette County Clerk Linda Talsma.
Under Michigan state law, the elections board must conduct a public accuracy test of all electronic voting systems, including both the tabulators and the voter assist terminals. This test is to provide greater transparency to the election process
“In this public accuracy test, we’re putting in any possible issue or problem that could happen, and we’re going to see if the tabulator picks that up,” explained Talsma.
With election integrity garnering headlines in recent years, Marquette County Clerk Linda Talsma urges anyone with concerns about the accuracy of an election to attend one of these tests.
“This is your opportunity to go view it and actually see it working. See all of the pieces put together,” said Talsma.
In Marquette County, the May 5th ballot will contain a bond proposal for the city of Negaunee to repair its ice arena and for the Marquette Area Public Schools, a bond proposal to fund infrastructure and safety improvements.
“Millages matter on your tax bills. You need to go and see, and you need to go and read, and you need to go and make sure that this is what you want, and if it is, that’s fantastic, but at least go out there and get your voice heard,” explained Talsma.
Spring elections typically have light voter turnout, so Talsma encourages everyone to come out and vote.
