Litchfield County registrars call for changes to early voting

Barbara Crouch, president of the Registrar of Voters Association of Connecticut, addresses the Litchfield chapter at a meeting in Sharon on Nov. 18.
Ruth Epstein


Barbara Crouch, president of the Registrar of Voters Association of Connecticut, addresses the Litchfield chapter at a meeting in Sharon on Nov. 18.
SHARON – Elections are the foundation of a democracy and registrars of voters are the ones tasked with making sure they run smoothly and fairly.
While most voters in Litchfield County are used to seeing them manning the polls, few know the intricacies, attention to detail, and yes, sometimes the frustrations these elected local officials face in carrying out their duties, which are primarily spelled out in the statutes.
During last week’s meeting of the Litchfield County Registrars of Voters of Connecticut, or ROVAC, some of those concerns were aired
Hosted by Sharon registrars, Democrat Marel Rogers and Republican Patricia Chamberlain, the meeting focused on the recent municipal elections.
Barbara Crouch, president of ROVAC, was the guest speaker. She talked about the topic that appeared to be on most minds: early voting.
Registrars had to provide 14 days of early voting for the election. Opinions are split in terms of its success, she said, although there is a push calling on state legislators to shorten the period.
She hopes the legislature will also bring up the issue of tabulators, she told those assembled. Some of the procedures having to be followed are archaic and can be done online, she said, and there are some technical things the association would like to get rid of.
“I heard about the inability to get responses from the Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas’ office,” said Crouch. “It was stressful for her. That office needs more organization. We’re trying to forge a better relationship with her. We should be working together. We want a more collaborative relationship with her. Everyone’s agenda is safe, fair, clear elections.”
Crouch said the association would like to get the number of early voting days reduced to 10 and that they not have to be instituted for primaries.
There were many examples of low turnout during early voting. Crouch said most colleges had no students appear.
The expense to towns was a main objection, with some registrars saying residents have no idea what such a schedule costs.
One meeting attendee said she was thanked for volunteering her time, and that she had to explain that the poll workers were getting paid.
Sherri Gray of Colebrook said her town had the lowest turnout for early voting at 43.Another attendee said it’s not just about cost, but the more days allows for more of a chance for mistakes because the poll workers are tired.
John Morton of Warren shared a letter he sent to his state representative and senator. He did extensive calculations, noting that 194 of the town’s 1,115 registered voters, or 17. 4% of eligible voters, cast their ballots early. The early voting cost the town $7,440, resulting in a per-voter cost of $38.35. Many voters, he said, expressed that 14 days felt excessive.
“Additionally, the state’s upcoming implementation of no-excuse absentee ballots will further expand voting access,” wrote Morton.
“With this new option available in future elections, a shorter early-voting period will continue to provide voters with ample opportunity to cast a ballot while reducing the staffing and financial burden on small towns like ours. We respectfully encourage you to consider revising the early voting requirement to a seven-day period. This provides a full working week of early voting for residents, maintains accessibility, and significantly reduces municipal costs.”
This election was also the first using the new tabulators which are made by ES & S. Examples of problems were given, but most of those present said the kinks were eventually worked out.
“We are elected officials,” said Lisa Amatruda of Woodbury, chairman of the Litchfield County association. “For us this is not a job, it’s a passion.”
Lakeville Journal
CANAAN — Anita L. (King) Gochey, 85, of 77 South Canaan Rd. died June 5, 2026, at Geer Village. She was the wife of the late Lester Gochey. Anita was born July 16, 1940,in Winsted, daughter of the late Ivan and Irene (Dulude) King.
Anita was well known throughout the Northwest Corner. She worked for many local businesses and organizations. Anita worked at the Rexall Drug Store, C.A. Lindell and Sons, Bob’s Clothing, Brooks Pharmacy, and the Housatonic Valley Regional High School in the cafeteria.She used her skills in calligraphy to complete the record books for the North Canaan Congregational Church.Anita’s daughter remembers her as being very creative with cardboard, and a loving mom.
Anita is survived by her son Raymond Gochey and his fiancee’ Chris Filkins of Hinsdale, Massachusetts; and her daughter Michele O’Brien of Sharon. She is also survived by her sister Denise Warner of Torrington and her brother Arthur King of Danbury. Her three grandchildren, Kyle Gochey of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Cody O’Brien of Georgia, and Sabrina O’Brien of Falls Village. Anita was predeceased by her brother, Martin King.
A Celebration of Anita’s life will be held on Saturday June 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home 118 Main St. Canaan, CT 06018.
Lakeville Journal
SHARON — Susanne Cecilia Berberoglu, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14 surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on Fe 13, 1951, in New Milford, Susanne lived a life filled with warmth, adventure, compassion, and dedication to those she loved.
A graduate of Brookfield High School, Susanne went on to work as a travel agent, a career perfectly suited to her adventurous spirit and love of discovering the world. She especially cherished her travels to Australia, London, and Hawaii, creating memories that she carried throughout her life.
Susanne had a lifelong passion for antiques and found joy in collecting and appreciating beautiful pieces filled with history and character. She was also deeply devoted to her beloved Boston Terriers, whom she lovingly raised and cared for over many years. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the companionship of the dogs she adored.
Above all else, Susanne treasured her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Tayfun Berberoglu Sr.; her loving daughter, Jennifer; her son, Tayfun Berberoglu Jr.; and her cherished granddaughters, Faora and Sybella. Her love, kindness, strength, and gentle spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
Susanne will be remembered for her caring nature, adventurous soul, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and animals. Her memory will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.
The Kenny Funeral Home has care of arrangements.
Lakeville Journal

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.
Lakeville Journal
SALISBURY — Rafael Porro passed away on January 6, 2026.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service in his honor on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Salisbury.
The family welcomes all who knew and loved Rafael to join them in remembering and celebrating his life.
The Kenny Funeral Home has care of arrangements.
Lakeville Journal
Lakeville Journal
CANAAN- — Nicholas Gandolfo Jr., 94 of East Canaan passed on June 4,2026, after a courageous battle with kidney cancer and CLL Leukemia.
Nicholas was born and raised in East Canaan to Nicholas Gandolfo Sr. and Marie Zucco Gandolfo both Italian immigrants, a heritage Nicholas embraced with pride.
During his youth Nick had a passion for the outdoors especially hunting and fishing which he enjoyed throughout his lifetime.
Nick served in the Korean war as a Marine. During his heroic service he received many medals and citations,most notably for saving his platoon even while sustaining injury himself during the famed Battle Of The Hook. Nick showed selfless dedication to serving the needs of others. He was involved with the Marine Corps League with whom he established a scholarship fund, the Canaan Couch Pipa VFW, providing durable medical equipment (and Girl scout cookies)to various VA homes and hospitals including Walter Reed in Washington. Nick also aided and assisted in other charitable causes not just limited to veterans, he served his community, for example, by providing thanksgiving dinners to needy local families.
Nicholas served as a volunteer firefighter for the town of Canaan for 25 years.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, and his fiery disposition. He was a shameless flirt who competed with his pals on who would receive the most hugs at any social gathering. With his charm, he always won.
Nicholas is predeceased by five brothers and his longtime partner Marlene Strattman. He is also predeceased by his daughter, Karen Gandolfo.
Nicholas leaves behind his loving daughters and their partners, his grandchildren and their partners and his great grand children. He is also survived by his only remaining brother, Robert Gandolfo, with whom he greatly valued his love and support. Nick also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. In his words, he had a special relationship with nieces Melissa Gandolfo and Lynne Gandolfo.
The family wishes to thank Salisbury Visiting Nurses.

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.