While being an independent voter can indicate a party preference, voter independence in Bedford has another meaning: empowerment for voters with disabilities.
Thanks to support from the American with Disabilities Act, Bedford has an AutoMARK Voter Assist Terminal. The terminal makes independent voting possible for voters with disabilities through its use of assistive technology to mark an optical scan ballot.
Longtime Bedford resident Howard Sumner used Bedford’s AutoMARK during early voting in the Presidential Primary this week. Sumner lost his vision five years ago, but the Carroll School for the Blind has helped him to learn adaptive strategies and maintain his quality of life. Using Uber and Lyft he mentors MIT students, and interviews high school students applying to Columbia University, his alma mater.
The first time Sumner voted after losing his sight, his wife helped mark his ballot, but the AutoMARK has made him an independent voter. The machine was set up in its own carrel with a comfortable chair, and poll workers were trained in its use.
As a member of Bedford’s newly-formed Disabilities Commission, those attitudes were as important to Sumner as the technology. He added that most people with disabilities want to be independent. Sumner reported an excellent, heartening experience when he voted this week.
Poll workers and Interim Town Clerk Rosemary Harvell were polite and respectful, thanking him for voting. Sumner returned the compliment, thanking Town Manager Sarah Stanton and Harvell for supporting access for all voters.
Bedford’s AutoMARK terminal will be available during the Presidential Preferential Primary on Tuesday, March 3; the Town Election on Saturday, March 14; the Massachusetts Primary on Tuesday, September 1; and the Presidential election on November 3.
Voting on Super Tuesday
Polls will be open on Super Tuesday from 7 am until 8 pm. All of Bedford’s precincts vote at the John Glenn Middle School, 99 McMahon Road.
Editor’s Note: 7 am to 8 pm are the correct polling hours!
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