​CONCERN for POLL-WORKERS HEALTH & SAFETY

I am a State Certified Election Moderator who has moderated at Foran High, JFK, Orange Ave. and Meadowside Schools in Milford and also at the Seth G Haley School in West Haven, CT.

My concern is that because the Secretary of State didn’t strongly suggest or mandate the instillation of Plexiglas Panels ”Barriers” at polling stations throughout the state; many Municipalities such as Milford choose not to purchase or use them. Some cities and towns such as Stamford and Glastonbury are using the Plexiglas Panels as an added protection barrier. Glastonbury purchased 28 Plexiglas Barriers to be attached to poll workers tables at a cost of @ $140.00 each to be used at 6 of their polling locations. Glastonbury stated that these Plexiglas Panels will be reused at future elections or other functions and are worth the investment.

Milford is supplying face shields; face masks, gloves and hand sanitizer. Milford it is NOT installing Plexiglas Panels at the poll workers tables, although Milford does use them for many other City Departments Employee Protection. The main entrance of The Parsons Complex is an example. On Election Day, Poll-Workers are paid by The City of Milford. Don't they deserve the same protection that other Parson Complex City employees receive?

Most of the poll workers like me are senior citizens,and more at risk for contracting COVID 19. Almost all of the poll workers will spend at least 14 hours to 16 hours confined to the polling location space not knowing if any one of the voters is COVID-19 positive. I feel it is Milford’s responsibility to provide ALL of the Available Options to protect the dedicated poll workers and the voters on Election Day. THEY DESERVE NO LESS!

Don't skimp and pinch pennies. Act Responsibly Milford!

I will probably never be called again to serve as a Milford Election Moderator because of this letter, SO BE IT. But I must speak out and make a stand for what I believe will help protect my fellow Poll-Workers and the Milford community.

PLEASE!!! Call Mayor Blake and the Registrar of Voters to voice YOUR concerns.

You may save a life!

Mayor Blake 203-783-3200, Registrar of Voters 203-783-3240

Pictures of the Parsons Complex and Health Dept. Entrances.