Why does Fulton County charge more?
For one thing, the county even charges cities for elections when they don’t hold them; that is, when only one candidate qualifies for each post. For example, Fulton charged Johns Creek $3,241 and Hapeville $82 last year. Fulton elections director Barry Garner said that money pays for preparation such as training workers. But Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker says this is just another way for Fulton to reach into a city’s pocket. In addition, Fulton hires the most temporary workers and often pays them more than other counties. Fulton averages nine workers for each precinct, Garner said. DeKalb elections chief Maxine Daniels said DeKalb assigns at least five workers. Sharon Dunn, Cobb elections director, said it depends on the election; she expects to send eight to 10 workers to precincts for the July primary. State law requires at least three. Fulton hires certified trainers, such as former teachers, from outside to instruct poll workers. Cobb has one full-time trainer who teaches experienc
