'Nice to see the community engaged': Poll workers help spring election run smoothly in Wauwatosa

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Election Day can be exciting but also a bit confusing, especially for first-time voters or those who have questions about the process.

Enter Dawn-Marie Metz.

"I punched in at 6:30 a.m.," said Metz, while helping direct voting traffic at Wauwatosa City Hall. "Since 2008, I've been working as a poll worker."

For 15 years, Metz has answered the call to serve as a poll worker. The last two, she's been a door greeter, helping make sure people understand where to vote, what's on the ballot and answering any other questions they may have.

"Giving back to my community and then seeing how elections are run, it's made me feel much more safe and secure with our election process," Metz explained. "It is an arduous process and people take it seriously and we take a lot of time doing it."

Having worked several elections, Metz admits the 2023 spring election is "one of the bigger ones," with steady foot traffic throughout the day.

"To have an April spring election that is a non-presidential year and have this much activity is really exciting," Metz explained. "It's nice to see the community engaged."

Metz's passion for the election process is a family affair. Her son and daughter-in-law also spoke with CBS 58 after casting their ballots.

"It's just important to me to make a difference," said Joe Metz. "We have a 2-year-old son. I want to make sure he has the best upbringing he can in the best environment, safest environment."

As for the process of working the polls, Metz is hopeful others will follow in her footsteps and participate in our nation's democracy.

"Get out and vote," Metz said. "We're always looking for poll workers. We need young eyes and young ears, so get up and do your service."