'Record Low Turnout' at Bedford Polls

More than 4,700 Bedford residents turned out to the polls or cast absentee ballots last year to vote in the hotly contest town moderator race between Brian Shaughnessy and Ryk Bullock, among other elections and warrant articles.

This year, the number of voters may only not exceed half that total. Through 3 p.m., 1,579 residents had signed in at the polls at Bedford High School, which averages out to roughly 197 an hour. An additional 126 absentee ballots were received.

Bedford Town Clerk Lori Radke said the turnout, so far, is record low for a town and school district election. She said she expects the final tally to be around 2,500.

Shaughnessy, who beat Bullock in last year's election, agreed.

"Early this morning I thought maybe 3,200," said Shaughnessy. "I thought the school budget would drive more people out, but the numbers first thing this morning that 2,500 may be our maximum."

Bedford Superintendent Timothy Mayes acknowledged that the low turnout may mean a tight vote on the school district budget and proposed teachers' contract.

Check back with Bedford Patch after the polls close tonight for full results from today's election and get results through our Facebook page first by clicking here.