Manlius referendum on wards ‘was no way to conduct an election’ (Your Letters)

To the Editor:

As someone who waited over two hours to vote “no” in the town of Manlius voting regarding a ward system, I nevertheless have some sympathy with letter writer Daniel Lupia’s point of view (”Special election is not the final word on representation in Manlius,” Sept. 29, 2023). I certainly believe that all people in the district should be represented and distinct communities should not be disenfranchised by gerrymandering or or unfair voting regulations.

I am very disappointed with the way that that the whole vote was conducted since it was only at one site, was seven hours less time to vote than in a normal election day, and obviously was quite partisan.

I know personally people who drove by three times but knew that they could not wait in line due to other commitments; others who have some minor disability and were not adequately advised that they could vote by absentee ballot; and others who waited and then left the line. This is no way to conduct an election.

Nevertheless, it was a great display of civic interest and sacrifice of time on a fall Saturday and generally patient and thoughtful people. Yet we need to resist gerrymandering at local, state and national levels … but that is always more difficult than it seems!

I hope all will stay involved because democracy demands work and we need open-minded people of all persuasions to keep our system vibrant!

Dave Pasinski

Fayetteville

Related: Manlius town voters reject ward system in heavy turnout in special election