Poll workers in Escambia County (Ala.) have not had a pay increase in 12 years and are asking the county commission to help by giving across-the-board raises to the nearly 160 poll workers who work on election days.
Roger Williamson represented the poll workers during Monday's commission meeting asking for “a substantial raise” for the workers.
Currently, poll workers in the county are paid the state minimum of $100 per day with the inspector receiving $125. The county is responsible for half the cost and the other half is paid by the state.
In addition to working the polls, poll workers must also attend training schools.
Williamson noted that while the polls are actually open for 12 hours on election day, poll workers work about 14 to 16 hours with work prior to opening the polls and after they are closed.
Williamson requested a $50 raise across the board that would raise the poll workers' pay to $150 per day and the inspectors to $175.
County Commission Chairman Raymond Wiggins said if the raises were given in Escambia County only, the county would be responsible for the entire increase. However, he said if the Legislature would pass a statewide bill raising the salary, the county would only be responsible for half.
“We understand the need,” Wiggins said. “If we could get it passed statewide it would help ya'll and us. You'd still be underpaid.”
Probate Judge Doug Agerton said he was in favor of the raise saying the poll workers have a very important job.
“They do this as a public service considering the money they make,” Agerton said. “I'm proud of our poll workers, they do a good job.”
Williamson said he would like to see the raises implemented this year but Wiggins said he didn't think it could happen that fast since the matter has to go before the Alabama Legislature.
The commission tabled any action on the issue to determine the best route to take to get the raises implemented.
Road vacated
Following a public hearing Monday where no opposition was made, the county commission voted unanimously to vacate a portion of Market Street in McCullough.
Ron Bailey spoked in favor of the closure, saying there has never been a road there anyway. The right-of-way for the road is platted but no road was ever built.
He also said Frank Curry Gin Co., wants to construct a warehouse where the platted road is currently.
Commissioner Larry White said there appeared to be no objections in the McCullough community and also noted it has never been used as a road.
