December 7, 2020
Dear Representative Lawn,
On behalf of the League of Women Voters of Newton, I am writing in support of House Bill H5111.
As you are aware, Newton must hold a special election to fill city council vacancies that occurred with the resignation of Councilor Auchincloss and the death of Councilor
Ciccone. The pandemic is showing no signs of waning, but rather is escalating across the state and country. The citizens of Newton must feel safe voting in these elections. Therefore, we ask that the Joint Committee on Election Laws support Governor Baker’s request, on the City’s behalf, to allow Newton to use mail-in and early in-person voting for this upcoming election.
One of the League’s core beliefs is to build citizen participation in the democratic process. In order for the League and the City to do this, we must ensure that our election processes are accessible, safe, secure, and transparent.
In closing, thank you for taking this letter of support into consideration when the committee makes its decision.
Sincerely,
Marcia Johnson
President, League of Women Voters, Newton