Tuxedo Park, NY — A grand jury in Orange County has issued a report indicating mismanagement of absentee ballots in a recent village election in Tuxedo Park, which centered on the novice handling by the village clerk. The investigation into the election process was initiated following a lawsuit by former mayor David McFadden who contested his electoral defeat.
The lawsuit highlighted issues with 30 individuals who allegedly managed to request and receive absentee ballots without being on the voter registration list. Some of these voters reportedly remained unregistered even when they cast their ballots. The court, however, dismissed the legal complaint on the grounds that it was not filed in time.
The grand jury concluded the problem stemmed from the lack of experience of the village clerk, rather than any criminal wrongdoing. The jury’s findings suggest the clerk often sought assistance from the Orange County Board of Elections on proper electoral procedures.
Further details from the grand jury’s report reveal that the situation was exacerbated by a potential conflict of interest in which a candidate had the power to hire or fire the clerk responsible for overseeing the election. This raised concerns about the impartiality of the electoral process, despite no evidence of intentional misconduct by public officials.
In response to these findings, the grand jury recommended shifting village elections from June to November. This change aims to allow better oversight and enhancements in election procedures. Following this recommendation, officials have already begun to adjust their electoral processes.
Mayor Marc Citrin of Tuxedo Park expressed gratitude toward the grand jurors and election commissioners for their diligent work. He confirmed that control over village elections was transferred to county authorities in December 2023, with considerations being made to change the election date to November to align with broader electoral practices.
In light of complications detailed by the grand jury, involving the election administration led by an inexperienced clerk who repeatedly required extensive guidance, the district suggested significant reforms to prevent future electoral mishaps.
This grand jury report sheds light on critical vulnerabilities in the local electoral system of Tuxedo Park and underscores the need for experienced election officials and clearer checks and balances within electoral administration.
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