With the Presidential Nominating Primary Election on the horizon, scheduled for March 5, 2024, Owatonna's call for civic participation rings clear as the city seeks Election Judges to oversee this essential democratic process. Ensuring the integrity of our elections, these civic volunteers represent the community's commitment to a fair and orderly voting experience.

Who Qualifies to Serve? If you are eligible to vote in Minnesota, proficient in English, and can secure appointment by an authority such as the County, City, Township, or School Board, you hold the basic qualifications for the role. However, current certification after mandatory training is a must.

What Are the Restrictions? The commitment to impartiality is paramount—candidates for any position in the election, or even those closely related to a candidate, cannot serve. Similarly, challengers and near relatives of fellow judges are barred if their shifts coincide.

Special consideration is given to partisan balance. Applicants are required to declare any major party affiliation, a factor considered in the appointment process in accordance with Minnesota Election Laws outlined in State Statute 204B.21.

How to Get Involved? Those keen on upholding mutual respect and meticulous attention to detail inherent in the voting process should reach out to Jeanette Clawson, Administrative Coordinator, at 507-774-7341, to begin the journey of certification and appointment.

Joining a cohort of dedicated community members, Election Judges perform a variety of tasks, from registering new voters to tallying absentee ballots, ensuring each vote is respectfully and accurately counted. It's more than a service; it’s the embodiment of democratic values, where every resident's voice can find certainty and clarity in the town they call home.