15 Polling Locations to Close in Champaign County on Election Day

County clerk cites election judge shortage, but voters can still cast ballots at any open vote center.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Champaign County will be closing 15 polling locations on Election Day, March 17, due to a shortage of election judges. County Clerk Aaron Ammons announced the closures, stating that signs will be posted at each closed site directing voters to the nearest available polling place. Champaign County uses vote centers, allowing voters to cast ballots at any open polling location in the county, regardless of their home precinct. Officials warn that longer lines may occur at some sites as a result of the closures.

Why it matters

The closure of 15 polling locations in Champaign County could lead to increased wait times and potential voter confusion on Election Day. This highlights the ongoing challenge of recruiting and retaining enough election judges, which is crucial for ensuring smooth and accessible elections.

The details

The 15 polling locations that will be closed are: Activities and Recreation Center (ARC), Bible Baptist Church, Royal Community Building, Bresnan Meeting Center, Free Methodist Church, Life Vineyard Church, Living Word Family Church, Douglass Center Annex, East Bend Township Building, Stanton Township Building, Hensley Town Hall, Hessel Park Christian Reformed Church, Hays Center, Ludlow Township Office, and Philo Road Church of Christ.

  • Election Day is March 17, 2026.

The players

Aaron Ammons

Champaign County Clerk, who announced the polling location closures.

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What’s next

County officials encourage voters to check online for a full list of open early voting and Election Day locations.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining election judges, which can lead to polling location closures and potential voter inconvenience on Election Day. It underscores the importance of ensuring accessible and efficient elections, even in the face of logistical hurdles.