Classmates –
As many of you are aware, there have been numerous concerns expressed about whether all the candidates had equal access to the entire Class for canvassing for votes. The perception of an “uneven playing field” was wide-spread.
In an attempt to address those concerns, the Election Committee recommended that each candidate be allowed to make a personal request for votes to the whole Class using the email list available through the Alumni Association and the voting window was extended. A number of the candidates chose to take advantage of that offer. These actions did not fully alleviate the concerns.
Because voting had already begun before all candidates had the opportunity to make a broad appeal, there was still a sense of unfairness, as those who had voted prior to the additional statements may have done so without full access to “the facts”. The voting process that was in place did not allow for individuals to change their vote, if they desired.
After careful deliberation about the situation and upon the recommendation of Election Committee, the following actions are being taken:
- The current voting process is being stopped, effective midnight, 5 October, and all the votes previously cast are being nullified.
- A new voting period will start on 10 October and be open through 17 October. As before, voting will be through SignupNow.
- All candidates are being instructed that they are not to solicit votes or expand upon their Candidate Statements through the end of the voting period. This includes email, text, direct message, phone call, social media, or any other path. They must rest upon the information that they have already provided.
- The Election Committee will tally votes and provide the results to the Class Board prior to the Class Meeting on 20 October, as stipulated in the Class Bylaws related to Elections.
We recognize that this approach may create frustrations for some by having to vote a second time. However, the Election Committee is committed to be as open and fair in the conduct of our election as possible. We believe the above actions are the only prudent way to ensure that.
If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or the other members of the Election Committee:
- Brett Ayotte, Election Committee Chairman: ayottekb@gmail.com
- Bill Burke, Election Committee Member: billburke78@yahoo.com
- Glen Ives, Election Committee Member: gives13@gmail.com
Your vote counts!
Regards,
Brett Ayotte, Chairman, 2023 Election Committee
Bill Burke, Member, 2023 Election Committee
Glen Ives, Member, 2023 Election Committee