Turnout Low At Amherst Polls

The polls at Souhegan High School are definitely not bursting with eager voters looking to cast their ballot for Town Meeting today.

Town clerk Nancy Demers said that the turnout was low in the morning, but seems to have gotten better as the afternoon rolled by. An estimated 638 voters showed up when Amherst Patch checked in this afternoon.

She said that about 2,350 out of the 8,000 available voters showed up last year, and this year may not even reach that. 

“For some reason, town elections don’t attract people,” said Demers. Most of the residents she has seen vote so far are the usual crowd that votes every year, not a lot of new blood.

Moderator Steve Coughlan said that he is “sad” that turnout is so low for today’s elections.

“Right now we are on track for under 25 percent of voters, and I would be sad if we fell below that,” said Coughlan.”

Selectman George Infanti was also disappointed by the turnout so far this afternoon, especially with what is on the ballot this year.

“It is lower than expected, which is discouraging when there are so many important things to be voting on,” said Infanti.

Showing Support

The minimal turnout did not seem to drag down the sign-holders on this sunny Tuesday, who lined up outside of the high school to woo voters.

Liz Overholt stationed herself in support of town road maintenance and the road bond.

“I have been supporting this for five years,” she said. “It is my baby and I am happily out here supporting what needs to be done.”

More information on the recreation field debate can

Joel Elber said that he came into town to drum up support for Charlie Sherman, who is running for a selectman seat.

“I’ve known Charlie for 45 years,” he said. “He wants to help the town of Amherst; my sign says tax fighter, and he is a fighter.”

Passionate Voters

Voters seemed to have at least one issue they were passionate about as they entered the polls.

Cy Thibault said his main reason for voting today was to cast his ballot in the selectman race. He said that he is supporting Brad Galinson and Bruce Bowler.

“I think they have a depth of experience in a lot of different areas,” said Thibault.

Jackie Marshall said that she wants to make sure that her top candidates get elected onto the library and cemetary trustees. She also said that she supports the roads and the purchase of land for playing fields.

“We want to do the playing fields right,” she said. We are losing the Cemetery Fields and we really have to replace those fields and do it in a smart manner.”

The town clerk said that they may have the results ready as early as 8:30 tonight.