If you’re interested in helping out during the 2008 presidential elections, the Oxford and Addison township clerks office wants you!
Wednesday, October 3, is designated as Help Oakland Vote Day, to highlight the need for election workers, and both townships will be accepting individuals? applications all day today at each township office.
Applications can also be found at www.oakgov.com/clerkrod, or by calling the Election Division at (248) 858-0564.
Oxford Twp. Clerk Clara Sanderson said she ‘is always looking for workers,? although she has had a committed group of helpers.
Marion Horton, Margaret Kubacki, Dorothy Morse and Donna Tripp have all helped the township with their elections for over 20 years and will receive a certificate of appreciation.
Chairpersons, who are in charge of a precinct during election day, are in high demand. They can make $150 a day, while the election inspectors can make $125. These hard-working individuals can generally put in a 14-hour day.
To apply as an election worker, one must be a registered voter. Residents as young as 16 can also help out at the polls.
According to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, the average age of an election worker in the United States is 72.
‘Some communities have enough workers, but others are really struggling,? said Ruth Johnson, Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds. ‘This is a great way for people to meet their neighbors, make a little money and more importantly, be engaged in the democratic process.?
Like Oxford, Addison Twp. Clerk Pauline Bennett said there’s not an election worker shortage per se.
‘Except when there’s an election with a local candidate on the ballot and their immediate family is working the ballots, they can’t work that election,? she said.
Bennett is looking into starting a rotation for her election workers, so someone doesn’t feel obligated to work every election.
Addison election workers who were honored by the county for their 25 years or more of service today include Janet Ostrander (30 years), Catherine Richter (34 years) and Jeanette Skipinski (30 years).
Two other Leonard residents who have helped for 20-24 years, Carol Leonard and Margarit Biddle, will receive certificates of appreciation from the county.
‘I have a very loyal and wonderful crew,? she said.
The Oxford Township Office is located at 300 Dunlap Rd., and the Addison Township Office is located at 1440 Rochester Rd. in Leonard.