LANCASTER, Pa. — In downtown Lancaster, the county government center looks a bit different.
“We’ve noticed unfortunately some folks have been trying to break in sometimes to the building, [there's been] some harassing of folks coming in and out of the building," said Lancaster County commissioner, Ray D'Agostino
That’s why Lancaster County decided to install fencing around the perimeter of Binns Park, as well as on the Queen and Chestnut Street sides of the building, where the first-floor elections office is located.
The department’s windows have also been covered with new shatterproof film and screens.
“It wasn’t that they weren’t secure, but we always look for continuous improvements," added D'Agostino, who is also chair of the County's Election Board.
According to him, the fencing and window treatments are part of several security upgrades made to the government center, which are being paid for with an election integrity grant through the state
Commissioners say they’re crucial upgrades heading into a major election, but believe they’re just as important the rest of the year.
“Elections happen 365 days a year, in the fact our staff, our volunteers are preparing many days throughout the year," explained D'Agostino.
In York County, there haven’t been any threats or issues, but commissioners say election security is always top of mind.
Among other things, the county stores its mail-in ballots in a locked room which is under video surveillance and provides fire suppression.
“What that means is should there be any sort of ignition that happens in that room, the system senses it and puts it out without water," said York County President Commissioner Julie Wheeler.
And in today’s heated political climate, commissioners say transparency through the entire voting process is key.
“We take that seriously and regardless of who you vote for and the manner in which you choose to vote, we want to assure people your vote will count," said Wheeler.
The election is Tuesday, November 5.
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