LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – With election day around the corner, the Lancaster County Election office extended its hours to those wanting to hand in their ballots early.

Dozens of residents could be seen lined up around the Lancaster County elections office building on Thursday, to do exactly that.

Those on the line, were under the watchful eye of a security trailer set up by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s office in the parking lot.

Lancaster County Election Commissioner Todd Wiltgren told Channel 8 that the security cameras serve as an added security measure during election season and is paid for by the federal government.

The line’s wait times varied between 30-45 minutes, when the line had reached the back of the building.

While waiting, many voters shared with Channel 8 what the long line meant to them.

“It’s encouraging, especially seeing the younger people out here,” said Eileen Taylor, who was waiting in line with her daughter Aimee.

Both women are poll workers and say Election night can get too busy for them to vote then.

“It’s wonderful, it’s really great, it’s actually kind of beautiful,” said Bethany Thomas, who was waiting in line with her toddler and infant.

“I mean, it’s necessary,” said Ashley Anderson, who showed up because she will be away on election day.

Earl Richardson told Channel 8, “There’s a lot at stake, and a lot on the line.”

Wiltgen actively engaged with the line on Thursday.

He was reminding voters to have their IDs ready, while also keeping an eye out for those with difficulties standing for too long, then offering them a seat inside.

“The last time we had a statewide general election, we didn’t have lines like this,” said Wiltgen.

“We are seeing more people coming into the office and voting early as opposed to voting by mail,” he said.

Wiltgen adds that one reason might be convenience, and many early voters confirmed that to be true.

“I’m here with my husband because we’re not going to be available on the 3rd,” said one woman.

“It’s going to be a very busy day for us already on Tuesday, but there’s also a lot of stuff on the ballot,” said poll worker, Aimee Taylor.

For others, the reason for showing up early is more specific.

“Quite frankly, I don’t trust the mail right now,” said Lydia Burr.

“There has been a lot of talk, especially coming from the president, about canceling mail-in voting and seizing ballots and stuff like that. So, I want to make sure I’m giving myself my best chance by voting in person,” she said.

“Last election, we felt like our polling center didn’t really get very much support,” said Devin Geeser.

“It was really busy, a really long line. This line is actually pretty short compared to the one we were waiting in before,” he added.

Wiltgen gave Channel 8 a sneak peek of operations inside the building on Thursday.

“We have six windows, so we have a person there at all times. We allow for breaks, lunch and afternoon break, but we are still having staff sub in, so we have that line moving,” he said.

Another efficient system? Lanyards.

Wiltgen and his team handed out lanyards to those needing a seat inside, while their standing partner held a matching lanyard while continuing to stand online.

Once the person on the line to the front of it, their sitting partner would be summoned that it was their turn to vote.

“It’s great to see democracy in action. Elections are where people have their voices heard in their government,” said Wiltgen.

Taylor Burchett told Channel 8, “It’s easier than you think.”

The Lancaster County Elections office also maintained extended hours on Saturday from 9am to noon, and on Monday from 7am to 5pm.