Your Neighborhood

Poll Workers, not Pole Dancers…
Jamie Simchik, ONEin3 Advisory Council

On November 11, 2010, I worked as a State Election Inspector in Charlestown (Ward 2, Precinct 5). It was cold outside and somebody did not think it was necessary to turn on the heat in the school gymnasium that day. I was the youngest person there, and I had to run back to the North End on my hour lunch break to cast my vote. You would think that the way I am describing this experience, I would never do it again. But, it’s quite the opposite!

My girlfriend says I am social liberal and a fiscal conservative. I think it means I like to like to party, but I drive up to New Hampshire to buy the alcohol. I am actually originally from New Hampshire and proud of the 17 miles of coastline. I was a registered Republican in New Hampshire and I am now a registered Democrat in Massachusetts.

Regardless of your political leanings, if you are interested in the election process, this is a worthwhile opportunity. The City of Boston’s Election Department staff is looking for new, young State Election Inspectors. It encouraged my friends to vote because they knew who would be checking off their name. I truly enjoyed meeting the other State Election Inspectors; they were nice, interesting and encourage me to return for the next election. And, especially if you are currently looking for job, it is a great way to make a little money as well.

Please consider working as a State Election Inspector, it’s a benefit to you and your community. That’s not a catch phrase, it’s the truth. It will break up the work week and get you to hump day quicker. And it will give you a chance to connect with your community and your neighbors.

If you are interested, you can visit http://www.cityofboston.gov/elections/pollworkers.asp for more information.