By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough-Joseph “Joe” Duca has been serving as a constable in Marlborough elections for more than 40 years, a position he thoroughly enjoys. As manager of the team of constables and other poll workers, he said it is always helpful for all to keep up with the duties and responsibilities, which were recently defined by City Clerk Lisa Thomas at an overview meeting.
Duca goes from precinct to precinct on Election Day to deliver ballots and emphasize to all constant vigilance on the ballots throughout the day. He also assists where needed.
“These meetings and training sessions are held to insure all are doing their jobs properly,” stated Thomas. “We also want to emphasize that the safety of workers is also of utmost importance.”
She relies heavily on her assistant, Steven Kerrigan, in carrying out the rules as election laws change and need to be consulted on an ongoing basis.
Constables serve as the security agent assigned to each precinct. It is their responsibility to ensure that election laws are kept in check, especially when it comes to campaign sign-holders.
”All signs cannot be larger than 10 square feet and displayed within 150 feet of the entrance to the polling location,” said Thomas. Candidates and/or candidates’ representatives cannot stand within 150 feet of the building nor are permitted to display buttons or stickers.
“Campaigners may come into check numbers or speak with their own checkers, but are not allowed to remain for any extended period of time,” Thomas stated.
Two inspectors check voters in at the polling place, announce and check the names on the voting list and hand out the ballot. Two other inspectors check out voters. Thomas is planning to hold extensive warden and clerk training sessions prior to the fall elections.