HAHN FOR MAYOR
18553 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, CA 91356

Hahn Looks to Avoid Voter Trouble

FEBRUARY 16, 2001
LOS ANGELES DAILY NEWS

With concerns about voting procedures from last year's presidential election, City Attorney James Hahn on Thursday sounded warnings that the upcoming city election will be closely monitored for any voting rights violations.

Hahn, who has a direct stake in the outcome as a candidate for mayor in the April 10 election, sent off letters to Mayor Richard Riordan, the City Council and City Clerk's Office, saying he has received complaints from the NAACP and other groups about potential problems.

Although the complaints involved the November election staged by the county, Hahn said he was concerned about the consolidation of polling places which, in some cases, were too far removed from voters.

"In some instances, these circumstances prevented registered voters from casting ballots," Hahn said.

Of particular concern is the consolidation of polling places in areas where people have to rely on public transportation to get to the polls.

Officials in the City Clerk's Office said they had received no complaints, but would look into any information provided by Hahn.

Also, executive officer Frank Martinez said the city was looking to open more polling places and seeking volunteers to staff those.

"We want people to get involved and if they volunteer, we'll find a place for them," Martinez said.