Springfield poll observers are reporting enthusiastic turnout and only minor problems as residents vote on a proposed casino project.

Gladys Oyola is Springfield’s election commissioner. She says poll watchers on both sides of the debate can protect against voting fraud and misconduct. But she said it’s the weather causing the most trouble.

“This morning at one of the polling locations, they want to be able to hear the names of the voters that come in and vote and their observers are having problems hearing because of all the fans that we have going due to the heat,” Oyola said.

Kelly Tucky with MGM, the company proposing the casino development, said the heat only makes turnout more impressive, showing how important Springfield residents find the issue.

Timothy Paul, a spokesperson for Citizens Against Casino Gaming, said volunteers from his organization had no problem demonstrating outside polling places.

“Ten or so people at one polling place on Main St. – they were covering both sides of the street and chanting ‘Casi-NO’ and you could see the enthusiasm they had and the passion for their cause,” Paul said.

Based on observer reports, Oyola said turnout is exceeding the recent special Senate election. She predicted turnout will be well over 20 percent.

John O’Neil reported this story.