West NY News

The Chautauqua County Board of Elections has announced a new collaboration with Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES (E2CCB) to establish the Western New York P-TECH STEM College and Career Academy as a polling site in Dunkirk, New York. This new location at 55 E. Benton St. will replace the previous polling site at St. Hedwig’s Social Center from Blessed Mary Angela parish.

Commissioner of Elections Nacole Ellis expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are extremely excited to partner with WNY P-TECH. This partnership signifies a sense of community involvement and empowerment." She emphasized that voting at an educational institution can strengthen voters' connection to their community.

The decision follows the Diocese of Buffalo's move to sell properties in Dunkirk, including those previously used for polling. Commissioner Luz Torres highlighted the challenges in finding suitable locations, noting that they must be accessible, comply with ADA requirements, and be conveniently located for voters.

Both Commissioners Torres and Ellis believe this initiative will encourage civic engagement by providing convenient voting access and fostering collaboration among local organizations.

WNY P-TECH offers students opportunities in high-demand fields such as Welding and Mechatronics while allowing them to earn an Associate Degree from Jamestown Community College. Principal Jeffrey Teluk stated, “We are proud to partner with the Board of Elections...to help our students understand the importance of being civic-minded.”

Voters will receive notifications about this change in May through annual Mail Check cards, and signage will guide them from St. Hedwig’s to the new location.

For more details on WNY P-TECH, visit www.e2ccb.org.