Cross Insurance Center to Suspend Security Measures for Voters

The Cross Insurance Center will not be searching bags or using metal detectors during Tuesday's election.

Bangor City Clerk Lisa Goodwin told the BDN that, although voters will still have to walk through metal detectors as they enter the building, the machines will be turned off. Bags will not be searched either, as the facility's new security policy requires during other events.

Goodwin says the Secretary of State's office advised against the added security during elections, saying it could have a troubling effect on voters, and diminish turnout. Some wouldn't show up, because they don't want to be searched. And the added security would slow down the line into the building, which could cause some voters to drive away before even getting out of their cars.