EL Election Inspectors Needed

The East Lansing City Clerk’s office is currently in need of Election Inspectors to work in polling locations around East Lansing on March 8, 2016. The work is paid and helps to support local democracy.

Inspectors’ half-day shifts run from either 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. to closing (usually 9 p.m.). Full-day shifts run from 6 a.m. to closing. The City pays Election Inspectors $60 for half-day shifts and $120 for all-day shifts.

New Election Inspectors are required to attend a three-hour training session (and are paid $10/hour for participating). The upcoming training sessions for new Election Inspectors will be February 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and February 23 from 9 a.m. to noon. (Only one session is required.) There will be a refresher course for returning Election Inspectors on February 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. All trainings are held in the Hannah Community Center.

Having worked as Election Inspectors for many years, we can share our personal perspective that this can be a truly rewarding experience. We have found that one of the best parts of working in a Precinct in our own neighborhood is that it gives us the opportunity to greet and reconnect with our neighbors and friends. Even if we don't get a chance for in-depth conversations, we do have a chance to touch base with old acquaintances about what is happening in their lives.

Some election workers enjoy working in the campus precincts to be part of the excitement of being with MSU students as they get to vote for the first time.

Working the polls as Election Inspectors also helps us feel proud of our election process and to participate in supporting the most fundamental of all democratic rights, the right to vote. All East Lansing Election Inspectors are trained that our role is to try to ensure that every voter who is entitled to vote does get the chance to vote.

Another benefit in working as Election Inspectors in the closing shift is that we get to see the total Precinct results as soon as the polls close, even before the public or the press. Working the polls is also an inter-generational work experience. It has always been interesting to spend a day working with a small group that includes young students, middle-age people and seniors, all working on the common goal of helping the election run smoothly.

According to Marie Wicks, East Lansing City Clerk, “In order to serve as an election inspector, one need only be registered to vote in the State of Michigan. Students, retirees and everyone in between are welcome. If you or someone you know would be interested in serving in this capacity, it would be greatly appreciated and again, training is provided! Most who participate find it to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. If interested, please contact my office at 517-319-6914 or e-mail me directly at mwicks@cityofeastlansing.com.”