Meet Our Election Workers

Local elections may only happen twice a year (June and November), but they only show the tip of the iceberg. Preparing for the elections is a year-round endeavor, and our Clerk’s office is at the helm. Before each election, there are several months of preparation like registering new voters and finalizing the ballots. One of the most vital early stages of preparation is hiring election workers to work the polls through the duration of in-person absentee voting and on Election Day. Election workers are the backbone of a functional and reliable election process, and serves as an honorable way to contribute to the democratic process. Let’s meet some of our valued residents who wear the title:

 

Cathy Hendrix has been an election worker for over 20 years, something she took up after retirement. She started by only working on Election Day but then expanded to weekdays during absentee voting, a timeframe when coverage is more difficult to fill. Her career managing doctors’ offices set her up well for this type of work; she’s equipped in setting up processes and enjoys the independent work on a specified task. She also enjoys working with the public and finds the role a meaningful way to contribute to the democratic process in a non-political way. Cathy is a 35-year Scarborough resident.

Charlene Gillchrest, also a 30+ year Scarborough resident, has been active in Town services for many years. She was on Volunteer Rescue with the Fire Department for nearly 7 years and has worked elections for the past 8 years. She enjoys the social aspect and company of the other workers—many who have become friends—and uses it as a way to stay active in retirement. Charlene worked in administration for 45 years at Maine Medical Center and finds herself to be Type A in all areas of her life. Her close attention to detail been an essential skill in her election work!

 

Pat Dunn started working elections when she retired in 2020. She had a long career as an attorney practicing law and representing municipalities. As a 34-year Scarborough resident, she wanted to do something to feel a sense of community and giving back. Over the past five years in this role, she’s learned how much goes into the elections and the people who work them. It relies on organization, working well under pressure, good communication skills (answering questions and concerns), and handling multi-step processes. She’s enjoyed helping people to be able to vote and supporting the Town with all the work that goes into administering elections.

Become an Election Worker 

The Town of Scarborough is seeking registered voters to become Election Workers. Help is needed either during absentee voting or on Election Day (or both). Working during absentee voting requires a commitment which can range from 2-4 half-day shifts per week for the month prior to Election Day. 

No prior experience is needed! The Town Clerk’s office will equip you with all of the tools you will need to be successful in this role.  We require all election workers to attend a training before each election to ensure all of our staff are receiving the most up-to-date information. 

Election workers are eligible to be paid for the work they conduct for the Town, or you can choose to volunteer. Standard forms, including the I-9, W-4 (state) and W-4 (federal) will need to be filled out prior to starting. 

Complete an application to express interest. If you have more questions, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at (207) 730-4020.

ELECTION WORKER APPLICATION