When the Lackawanna County Commissioners met virtually yesterday they extended the county's emergency declaration until June 8. The extension will allow the Lackawanna County Government Center to remain closed which in turn will accommodate the counting of mail in ballots for the June 2 primary election. Commissioners say they anticipate possibly more than 30thousand so counting done in the lobby of the building could continue into election week.
The Luzerne County Board of Elections met yesterday via video conference. When it was over they approved much of County Manager David Pedri's plan for the upcoming June 2 primary. They allowed the use of paper ballots at in person polling sites but not paper poll books. Instead voters will use the electronic poll book system. Consolidating polling places throughout the county was also approved. The also approved Judges of election and other poll workers to receive the highest compensation allowed under state law.