The Harrisonburg Electoral Board meeting held on May 12, 2025, focused on preparations for the upcoming elections, particularly addressing the implementation of same-day registration (SDR) and training for election officers.

A significant discussion centered on the logistics of SDR, with board members expressing concerns about managing voter lines effectively. The board emphasized the need to ensure that registered voters do not face delays due to the SDR process. Suggestions included creating separate lines for SDR voters to streamline the voting experience for those already registered. The board acknowledged that while changes could improve efficiency, challenges would still remain, particularly due to human error in the registration process.

The meeting also highlighted plans for training election officers. The board decided to combine training sessions for chief officers and information officers, as the number of information officers for the upcoming election is limited. This approach aims to ensure that all officers are well-prepared for the SDR process and other election duties.

Additionally, the board welcomed a new deputy, Ashley Dovell, who began her training on the same day. Her onboarding is seen as timely, given the relatively low volume of expected voters, which will provide a good opportunity for her to learn the election processes.

The meeting concluded with a review of important upcoming dates related to the election, ensuring that all members are aligned on the timeline and responsibilities as they move forward. Overall, the discussions underscored the board's commitment to improving the electoral process and enhancing voter experience in Harrisonburg.