St. Joseph County officials discuss changes to voting centers at public hearing

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The St. Joseph County Election Board convened in South Bend on Friday to talk about the changes being made for voting locations.

The Board held a vote to create new voting centers in St. Joseph County, which they say this will make it easier for voters to cast their ballots.

“Convenience and accessibility for the voter because we were seeing voters show up in the wrong location,” Catherine Fanello said, Chair of the St. Joseph County Election Board. "They didn’t have enough time to go and vote at their correct location and so it was just more of a convenience and accessibility for our voters making sure that every vote counts.”

Although changes are being made, many locations will remain the same. However, voters will now be allowed to vote at any location throughout the County.

“To think that you could go vote at any of the precincts around the city — I’m hoping that it may increase voter turnout,” said Lisa Plencner, a member of the League of Women Voters. “I’m hoping that they won’t be as confused on where to go. The idea that you could increase convenience for our voters is a little thrilling to me.”

The changes will be implemented for the upcoming primary elections.