The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office announced on Apr. 14 that it is increasing security at its two early voting locations following a series of minor verbal disturbances in the past week.
Officials say the added security measures are intended to ensure safety and order as residents participate in early voting for the April 21 special election. Early voting has been available at Central Library since March 6, while North Courthouse Road Library opened for voters on April 10. Both locations will remain open through Saturday, April 18.
Sheriff Karl S. Leonard said, “We are providing security at our two polling places to ensure a safe, respectful, and orderly environment for all individuals exercising their civic duty. While recent incidents have been limited to minor verbal disagreements, these situations underscore the importance of maintaining a visible and professional security presence. Our goal is to prevent any escalation, promote a sense of safety and confidence among voters and staff, and uphold the integrity of the voting process. By proactively addressing even low-level disruptions, we help ensure that every individual can participate freely and without concern.”
General Registrar Missy Vera said more than 35,000 Chesterfield residents have already voted in this election: “Our top priority is ensuring a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all voters participating in this election… We appreciate the support of Sheriff Leonard, his team and county administration. The security presence is not intended to intimidate or discourage anyone. It is solely in place to help maintain safety, support staff, and respond quickly only in the event of an active disturbance.” Vera added: “We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work to ensure every voter can exercise their right to vote safely.”
The ballot includes a proposed state constitutional amendment regarding congressional redistricting outside of census years.
Absentee by-mail drop boxes will be available at regular polling places as well as at the General Registrar’s Office on Election Day from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m., according to officials.
Chesterfield County Public Schools District enrolled over 64,000 students during the current school year according to Virginia Department of Education data. Thomas Dale High School had the highest enrollment among local schools with more than 2,500 students as reported by state records. White students made up about 43% of district enrollment while Black students accounted for just over one-quarter according to official statistics. Total school enrollment increased slightly compared with last year according to education department figures.
Among pre-kindergarten programs in Chesterfield County schools this year, Chester Early Childhood Learning Academy enrolled most pre-K students, accounting for about forty percent countywide; Old Hundred Elementary School welcomed nearly three-and-a-half percent of all kindergarteners based on state data.
