Early voting under way at new Toledo location

Poll worker John Flahie, right, helps first time voter Tyesha Fleming, left, 18, from Toledo, understand the paper voting system during the first day of voting at the Lucas County Early Vote Center.

Early voting started today, with 28 people casting ballots as of 4 p.m., according to Lucas County Board of Elections officials.

The voting is taking place at a new location this primary election - the third floor of the BTC Building at 1946 N. 13th St. in downtown Toledo.

Elections Director Gina Kaczala and Deputy Director Dan DeAngelis said there have been no complaints about the voting site or problems that they knew of, and said the parking and security are good.

Voters are casting early ballots in contested primary races, for a vacant Toledo City Council seat, for a smattering of school issues around the region, and also for a statewide capital improvements question.

Democrats and Republicans are also picking county and state central committee representatives - the people who elect the chairman.

Statewide, only one contested race is on the ballot. Democratic governor candidate Ed FitzGerald is facing the lesser known Larry Ealy of Dayton.

One of those voting early was Richard Roberts, a candidate for Common Pleas judge.

“Everyone should take full advantage of their opportunity to get out and vote between now and May 6," Mr. Roberts said as he cast his ballot at 10:30 a.m. "The weather is turning nice so really there’s no excuse.” He's competing with Ian English and Laura Restivo for the Democratic nomination to run in November for the seat being vacated by Judge Fred McDonald, who is barred by age restrictions from seeking re-election. The Republican candidate, Mark Davis, is unopposed.

Early voting continues 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through May 2, The polls will stay open until 9 p.m. on Monday, April 7, and will open from 8 a.m. to noon on the Saturday before the election, May 3.