Election Judges

Edina's 20 polling locations are staffed by citizens who are appointed as election judges. To serve as an election judge in the City of Edina, citizens must be eligible to vote in an election, must declare what party they consider themselves affiliated with, and must not be the spouse, parent, child or sibling of any election judges serving in the same precinct or any candidate of that election.

Serving as an election judge is an opportunity to give something back to the community. Come work with us!

Below are frequently asked questions about Election Judges. For more information, or if you are interested in serving as an election judge, contact Debra Mangen, City Clerk, at 952-826-0408.

What are election judges?
Election judges are responsible for the administration of election procedures in each voting place on election day. Election judges help guarantee that the rights of voters are protected on election day. Become a member of this proud team working to guarantee the election process is fair and in accordance with our laws. Election judges are vital to efficient and honest elections.

What are some of the duties of election judges?

  • Set up for 7 a.m. opening of the polls
  • Aid voters signing into the precinct
  • Distribute ballots to voters
  • Monitor preceinct ballot counter
  • Register new voters
  • Help voters who require assistance
  • Process absentee ballots
  • Record and certify vote totals

Who is eligible?

An election judge must be: 1. Eligible to vote in the State of Minnesota; 2. Able to read, write and speak English; 3. Appointed by the City Council and; 4. Training and currently certified as an election judge. Party balance must be maintained within each polling place. Minnesota election law requires that not more than one half of the judges in a polling place belong to the same political party.

Student Election Judges

Edina has for several years used students as election judges in their polling places. Student judges must be U.S. citizens; at least 16 years old; serve in the county in which they residel be enrolled in a Minnesota high school or be home schooled; be in good academic standing; and have written permission from their school and parents.

Are election judges paid?

Yes, election judges are paid an hourly wage. State law allows time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an election judge with 20 days prior notice to the employer. The City Clerk can provide an employer's notification letter to persons to use with their employer. Judges work at either or both the Primary election and General election.

How are judges selected?
Appointments are made by the City Clerk, depending on the needs for each election, and approved by the City Council. Each precinct has a voting place staffed by a board of up to 12 election judges.

How are election judges trained?
Judges are required to attend a state mandaded, two-hour training class. Judges are paid to attend the class. Several classes are conducted for your convenience at City Hall during the day and in the evening.

How can I become an election judge?
Contact City Clerk Debra Mangen at 952-826-0408.

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Administration Department

4801 W. 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424

Mail@EdinaMN.gov
952-927-8861

Hours: 
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Government Corner

Under state law, a city with a population of more than 15,000 must annually notify its residents of the positions and salaries of its three highest-paid employees. As of Jan. 1, 2013, those positions in Edina are City Manager, $156,043; Police Chief, $129,958; and Director of Engineering, $129,958.

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The City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424
mail@EdinaMN.gov 952-927-8861

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