Michele Benjamin – who is running unopposed for re-election today – said only 7.27% of the city’s 29,000 registered voters had made it to the polls as of noon.
“Four years ago, there was a similar election where there was not a mayoral race," said the city clerk. "We had 23.1% turnout for the entire day. So I'm really hoping that people get out there and we at least have a 20% to 25% turnout. I mean, it's important.”
Benjamin expects an after-work rush to bolster the low numbers. The election will determine the city clerk seat and the makeup of Pittsfield’s city council and school committee.