MILTON, Ga. — For the first time in its history, the City of Milton has decided to pull away from Fulton County and conduct its own municipal election. While other North Fulton cities have discussed the same idea, Milton will be going it alone.
The others will be watching.
The state election codes governing elections are extensive and tedious. The city’s election team — the city manager, deputy city manager and city clerk — have said they dedicate roughly 30 percent of their work week to preparation. It’s a heavy lift, and one that none have experience with.
To alleviate the load and act as a guide, Vernetta Nuriddin, former vice chair of the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections, has been hired as the elections consultant. Her $25,000 contract, passed on the Milton City Council’s consent agenda June 5, runs through the end of the year.
For residents interested in what underlies Milton’s decisions in the election season, here are some key statutes to follow. They can be found in Official Code of Georgia Title 21, Chapter 2. Please note: The list is not comprehensive.
Ballot security
OCGA 21-2-283. Printing and safekeeping of ballots and labels by superintendent.
OCGA 21-2-286. Printing specifications, numbering, and binding of ballots.
OCGA 21-2-294. Responsibility of superintendent for recording number of ballots furnished and number of stubs, unused ballots, and canceled ballots returned.
OCGA 21-2-560 – 21-2-604. All sections in Article 15 in Title 21, Chapter 2 pertain to offenses and penalties surrounding elections. The article includes offenses like fraudulent entries, intimidation of electors and unlawful possession of ballots.
OCGA 21-2-386. Safekeeping, certification and validation of…
Read the full article here
