One of the most important jobs we as American citizens have is letting our voices be heard at the ballot box. In order for us to do that, we rely on the poll workers who help make each of those polling places operate without a hitch.

Yet elections officials around the Ohio Valley are searching for more people to fill that crucial role. Eberle Ferrell, director of the Belmont County Board of Elections, recently said she is looking for more poll workers in her county, especially Democrats, as each polling place needs bipartisan representation among its workforce.

The need is significant in areas of West Virginia as well. Last year, then-West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner pleaded for more poll workers, as there were shortages in several counties, including Ohio and Wetzel.

Among the keys to free and fair elections is having a robust and effective group of poll workers that keep polling sites running smoothly. Now more than ever, it is important that the voting process remain transparent and fair. That becomes more difficult when fewer people are working the polls to ensure it. Poll workers are paid for their training and work, so it won’t go uncompensated.

The Belmont election board can be reached at 740-526-0188. West Virginians can apply to become poll workers at GoVoteWV.com. If you’re able, please consider helping your fellow voters in this very important role.