Adopt Resolution #20-030 Appointing Election Judges for the Presidential Nomination Primary Election on March 3, 2020 - Please Note:  this item was withdrawn by the applicant and has been removed from the Consent Agenda.

For each Election, Council is asked to formally appoint Election Judges to work the polling locations.  A resolution is attached appointing Election Judges to serve for the Presidential Nomination Primary Election scheduled for March 3, 2020.

Minnesota State Statute 204B.22 is attached.  The statute references the number of election judges that are required under the law. In this case, the minimum number of judges required is four per polling location.  Ramsey will have eight polling locations open for the election.  Staff's recommendation at this time is to secure six to seven judges for each location.   In almost all cases, a few judges end up not being able to work the day of the election.  Additionally, if feasible, staff would like the discretion to schedule more judges for shorter shifts vs. less judges for the whole day; a typical judge working the whole day will work a 15 hour shift.  Staff was advised that the percent of voter turnout for this election is unpredictable; however, we may see a very high voter turnout.  Staff's goal will be to reduce any unnecessary hours worked, while maintaining good coverage. 

 Note:  The last day to appoint election judges is Friday, February 7, 2020. 

Monies have been budgeted in the General Fund under Elections for Election expenses and Election Judge pay. 

Specifically Regarding this Election
The law establishing the Presidential Nomination Primary (PNP) requires that the Office of the Secretary of State (OSS) reimburse counties and municipalities for certain expenses incurred in the administration of the PNP. 

The law establishing the PNP sets out specific items that are eligible for reimbursement, and places a maximum reimbursable cost for some items. Specifically, Minnesota statutes allow for the reimbursement of the following expenses:

• Preparation and printing of ballots;
• Postage for absentee ballots;
• Sample ballot publication;
• Preparation of polling places, limited to a maximum of $150 per precinct;
• Preparation of electronic voting systems, limited to a maximum of $100 per precinct;
• Compensation for temporary staff or overtime payments for permanent staff;
• Salaries for election judges; and
• Compensation for canvassing board members.

Staff will submit certifications and requests for reimbursement to the OSS within 60 days of the certification of the results of the PNP. The OSS must reimburse counties and municipalities 30 days later (no later than 90 days after the results of the PNP are certified).

Staff recommends Council adopt the Resolution appointing Election Judges for the 2020 Presidential Nomination Primary Election.

Motion to adopt Resolution #20-030 Appointing Election Judges for the Presidential Nomination Primary Election on March 3, 2020