(From left) First-time voter Tony Boyer, 18, attended today’s election with mother Monica Boyer. The two were helped by Jack Voklers, Roxanne Coffelt and Carol Volckers.
(Not pictured) Laura Lockridge and Jerold Nelson also assisted the two by explaining the polling process.

WARSAW — Polls are currently in place for Kosciusko County elections and the turnout has seemingly been similar at polling locations in Warsaw, Silver Lake, Claypool, Pierceton and Mentone — somewhat sparse.

In Warsaw, a total of five wards offered voting locations for those wishing to exercise their civic duties. First ward polling locations included: United Pentecostal Church, first precinct; Oakwood Cemetery Chapel, second precinct; United Pentecostal Church, fourth precinct.

Second ward polling locations included: the Shrine Building, first precinct and Warsaw City Council Chamber, second precinct.

Third ward locations included: the Shrine Building, first precinct, and Church of God, second precinct.

Fourth ward voting locations were: St. Anne’s Church, first precinct; Kosciusko County Annex Building, second precinct; Masonic Lodge, third precinct. Fifth ward offered one locations three precincts, the Center Lake Pavilion. 

At precinct 2-2, a total of 43 voters had attended to cast their votes by 3:30 p.m. The polls, which are manned by election officials Jack Volckers, Roxanne Coffelt, Carol Volckers, Laura Lockridge and Jerold Nelson, reportedly saw a surge of voters this morning between 6-8 a.m. and since then, have had voters trickle in slowly. A total of 25 individuals had attended the polls by noon at precinct 2-2.

“The people who are showing up aren’t just here to vote,” explained Jack Volckers. “Voting is a privilege and they want to exercise that privilege.”

Though many have suggestions or hopes for local government, a low voter turnout is not a new occurrence.

“Elections are decided by the people who stayed home,” stated Coffelt.

Jack Volckers agreed, noting, “Since the beginning of our election process as a country, the did-no-votes have won every single election.” Volckers explained if those who did not vote attended an election, the cumulative votes from those individuals would likely be enough to vote someone into office alone.

There is still some time left for voter’s voices to be heard. Polls close at 6 p.m. today, Nov. 3. For a rundown on who is up for election, click here.