County resident brings concerns over third-party vote counting

POMEROY-The Garfield County board of commissioners (BOCC) approved a memorandum of understanding and the purchase of an internet switch, as well as heard election concerns from a county resident at their meeting on October 23.

Jeff Barnett brought his concern over election equipment, particularly the use of computers for ballot counting, and the inaccessibility of information about them to the board. He stated he was concerned about third party vote counting, and the opportunity for fraudulency, and stated his desire for Garfield County to use hand-counting. Barnett said "I trust our local people, I have no concern about that." Commissioner Justin Dixon stated that Garfield County uses a system that is approved state-wide. County Auditor McKenzie Lueck stated that she does have the staffing to be able to hand-count the ballots, but also said "I want to make sure to investigate your concerns as well."

The board approved a memorandum of understanding between Garfield County and Pomeroy Partners for Health Families Coalition, regarding funds received from a recent multi-county opioid settlement. Funds received by Garfield County from the settlement will be passed on to Pomeroy Partners to use in the community.

The commissioners also approved the purchase of a Nexus internet switch. The switch will cost $11,058.20, and is part of a multi-year plan to update the courthouse internet network. It is being ordered at this time to allow for a two-to-three-month lead time due to back ordering.