The Leader of Stafford Borough Council is calling on the Government to make a firm decision now on whether elections will take place this May.
Preparations are already underway to ensure the planned polls across the borough will be covid-19 secure if they are to go ahead.
Councillor Patrick Farrington said he is concerned that the virus is already creating new issues that will lead to extra costs and resources, as well as potentially damaging the democratic process, if voting still goes ahead on Thursday 6 May.
A number of polls are earmarked to take place in the borough including to elect a new Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, for all seats on Staffordshire County Council and Creswell Parish Council – along with a by-election for a seat on the Town Council in Stone. There will also be a referendum to decide whether residents of Stone accept a proposed ‘Neighbourhood Plan’ which helps regulate development in the area.
Councillor Farrington, said:
“Many voters are still reticent about venturing out from their homes, relying on family, friends and volunteers, where the rules permit, to fetch essential supplies, so how would they even visit a polling station to cast their vote?
“Not all polling stations are large community spaces. Some venues are as small as local pubs and even caravans in rural areas. You can only imagine the work that would have to be undertaken to make these venues Covid compliant.
“Socially distanced queues, spaced out voting booths, would all present difficulties – and then there is the number of staff required to operate the venues and undertake all the preparatory work, particularly given that they are currently so hard pressed dealing with the day to day running of the Council under extreme conditions.”
Councillor Farrington also said it would be more difficult for candidates to get their messages out to residents – especially those who did not use social media.
He added:
“It is very important we get a decision now on whether we hold the polls in May to avoid unnecessary costs and resources – as well to alleviate the increased pressure Elections Teams across the country will find themselves under.”
The elections for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, and Creswell Parish Council, did not go ahead last year due to the pandemic.
More information on electoral services can be found at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/elections
