By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Early voting in Barton County began earlier this month, but Election Day has finally arrived. While many races will not be determined until the general election in November, several key local races will be decided by tonight. The constitutional amendment issue regarding abortion will also be decided in today's primary.
"The poll places will open at 7 a.m.," said Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler. "You just need to have a photo ID to go in and vote. The polls will close at 7 p.m., and we'll post results as we get them on our website, bartoncounty.org."
The Barton County Commission race remains the big contest locally. There are four candidates in the Barton County Commission, District 1 race, and two candidates are vying for spots in each of the fourth and fifth districts. Results from today's primary will also set up general election battles for state and national offices in November.
Schmeidler said, along with her staff, the clerk's office uses approximately 45 volunteers on Election Day to keep the process running smoothly.
"Our volunteers are extremely important," she said. "Without their help, we couldn't get the election done. We rely on them heavily. We need so many at each poll place to make sure everything gets done correctly, and help every voter as speedily as we can. They're a huge asset to our office."
Watch for updated election results throughout the evening on GreatBendPost.com.