Hastings residents voted at the First Baptist Church instead of the Hastings Middle School in the November, 2016 general election because construction at the school forced a change in the polling place.

At the Hastings City Council meeting Monday, Clerk/Treasurer Dan King recommended making the change permanent after, “very good reviews from citizens and church staff,” about the election.

King said he and deputy Clerk Tina Maurer visited church officials who were receptive to the arrangement.

“Parking was the huge issue for voters,” King said. Schools hold classes during voting hours on election day, making parking spaces scarce.

City Manager Jeff Mansfield assured the council that nothing is “permanent,” noting a 120-day notice requirement if either party wants to end the agreement, assuring ample time to find an alternate location for future elections. The vote was unanimous to change the polling place to the church on Woodlawn Avenue instead of the middle school.