Northborough To Have One Polling Station For Upcoming Election

NORTHBOROUGH, MA — Northborough's annual town election is just weeks away and the town has decided on a venue for the new consolidated voting location. Residents from all four precincts can cast their ballots at the Melican Middle School located at 145 Lincoln St. THe annual town election is on May 14 and polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Town and School officials have been working collaboratively to identify locations that would accommodate a single polling location for all four precincts. After thoroughly reviewing all potential town/school owned buildings, which included ADA compliance surveys, Melican Middle School was deemed the best fit. The town said the facility is centrally located, easy to find, and has plentiful parking.

The voting precincts will be located in the school cafeteria, which has direct entry and exit points at the front of the building. The cafeteria is located in the wing furthest isolated from the student population. A plan developed by the Police Department will allow us to keep voters confined to the cafeteria space, ensuring student safety.

Student safety and building security on election day are of utmost importance. Legitimate concerns have been raised by parents in recent years regarding voting at our elementary schools. The Police Department plays an integral role in the election process. The law requires a police officer be present within the polling place on election day. Additional officers will be utilized to maintain building security, student safety, and assist with traffic as needed.

On the ballot this year are positions of moderator, Board of Selectmen, School Committee and North/Southborough Regional School Committee. Only two of the positions have contested races. The Board of Selectmen has three candidates for one, three-year position. The candidates include incumbent Leslie Rutan and challengers Millie Milton and Jason T. McDonald.

The one-year, partial term seat for the North/Southborough Regional School Committee is also contested. Christopher D. Convino and Sean P. O'Shea are both running for the position on the ballot.