MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The election polls open up in eight days, and in anticipation, Meridian Township has already began Election Inspector training.

This is a mandatory training for the workers conducting the election. The Charter Township of Meridian has 19 precincts, and Deputy Clerk Joan Horvath said there are about 10 inspectors at each location at all times.

"You have to be trained with all the rules and procedures because they are working one day and there's a lot to remember," Horvath said.

The Election Inspectors were not only trained on how to assist the voters at the precincts, but also how to process those ballots through a tabulator machine.

Haslett Resident Leonard Provencher said he attended the training and decided to work on Election Day because he is making a civic commitment.

"I think everybody should participate and take an interest in their government," he said. "And voting is one way you have that opportunity, when the election cycle comes around whether it be a primary or general election."

This was a 2-hour training that provided thorough instructions for the training and left many, such as Okemos resident Jim Kruse, feeling prepared.

"This is a refresher for me. I have worked the election several times before and I always come to the training sessions," Kruse said. "You may learn something new and you always do. It's just part of giving back to the country which is something I am big on."

Come Election Day, voters can expect to see many of these residents helping out at the precincts.

"I just encourage everyone to come out and vote," Provencher said. "And I hope to see you out, maybe at the poll where I work."