The St. Louis County Board of Election Commissioners suspended its top official, a move that comes after dozens of polling places ran out of ballots during this month’s municipal elections. After the four-person election board went into closed session on Tuesday, it voted to suspend Democratic director Eric Fey for two weeks without pay. Commissioners also suspended elections coordinator Laura Goebel without pay for one week. The board did not exert any punishment against Republican director Gary Fuhr.
A statement sent by the board did not provide an explanation for its decision. But it was almost certainly triggered by widespread ballot shortages during the county’s municipal elections. Fey cited a database error for more than 60 places running out of ballots all across the county.
Fey and Fuhr declined comment when the board adjourned its meeting. Fey sent a text to reporters that he respects the board’s decision.
Commissioner John Maupin said he hoped the personnel decision would show that the board is serious about accountability.
Full Article: St. Louis County election board suspends top director for ballot blunder | St. Louis Public Radio.