MPS buildings closed for lead hazards open as polling places Tuesday; many voters 'not concerned'

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Three Milwaukee public school buildings remain closed for cleaning after lead hazards were detected by the Milwaukee Health Department earlier this month.

However, two of those schools are open to voters Tuesday as designated polling places: Fernwood Montessori and La Follette School.

The Milwaukee Election Commission says voting is taking place in the newer areas of the buildings, away from where the lead was detected.

Remediation work is paused on Tuesday to ensure voter safety.

At Fernwood, election workers told CBS 58 they don't think the issue has impacted their voter turnout, with more than 600 people casting an in-person ballot before 3 p.m.

"My kids actually go here, so I was aware of that ahead of time, and yeah, no, I wasn't concerned," said voter Steve Gallam.

"We value our right to vote so much and the importance for all citizens of being able to make your voice heard," said voter Ara Kueny.

If voters are concerned about lead dust exposure, the Milwaukee Health Department recommends wiping off shoes and washing your hands after leaving the building, avoiding eating and drinking in the polling places, and keeping personal items off the floor.