BRATTLEBORO — Town Meeting Day is always important to Vermonters and gives us the chance to elect leaders and decide on issues where it hits us the most, at the local level.
As with everything else, the COVID-19 pandemic forced changes to how we vote on Tuesday, March 2. Many towns in Vermont are postponing the traditional Town Hall meeting.
In Brattleboro, there is no early voting at the Municipal Building, but that shouldn't stop you from voting. As a justice of the peace and a member of the Brattleboro Board of Civil Authority, I join with my fellow election officials and urge you to vote absentee.
Unlike the general election in November, ballots will not be sent to all registered voters. If you request both the Town Meeting Day ballot and the Windham Southeast School District ballot, you will receive both in the mail together.
Each voter will need to make a request for your ballot(s). This can be done by calling the Town Clerk or by making the request on-line at mvp.vermont.gov. You should receive your ballot(s) in the mail within a few days.
Follow the instructions provided with the ballot(s) and return them as soon as possible. They can be mailed back, placed in the drop box at the Municipal Center, or returned to the polls on Town Meeting Day.
Of course, you can vote in person on Tuesday, March 2. COVID-19 precautions will be in place, so masks are required to vote indoors. An outdoor polling station is available for those who are unable to wear a mask or unwilling to do so.
Make sure to leave yourself enough time, because social distancing requirements will be in place and there is potential for longer-than-normal wait times.
Town Meeting Day is your opportunity to select town officials and express your opinion on town matters. Remember, your vote is your voice.