Local precincts receive election grants

The cities of Alexandria and Osakis and Alexandria Township all received state grants to make it easier to vote in elections.

Alexandria received a $3,634 grant to purchase and install signs that will assist handicapped voters.

Osakis received $800 to purchase eight voting booths.

Alexandria Township received $7,350 to install two automatic garage doors.

The grants were provided through Election Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (EAID).

“I am pleased that we were able to offer these grants again this year,” said Secretary of State Mark Ritchie. “These funds will help defray the costs for accessibility improvements, which is especially important during these lean budget times.”

EAID grants are provided through the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002. Funds must be used to improve polling place accessibility for voters with disabilities and cannot be used for general improvements to structures.

More than $315,161 was distributed among 64 counties, cities and townships. Funding decisions were made by a committee that included representatives from the League of Minnesota Cities, the Minnesota Association of Townships and the Minnesota Council on Disability.

“It is important that we ensure that all eligible Minnesota voters have access to their polling locations and can freely cast their ballot,” Ritchie said.

Tags: local news, news, precincts, election, grants