Cynisister. You are correct. The 99 WT does make voting a conscience issue. Your local elders may not be aware of this article. However, whilst allowing witnesses to make such a conscience decision, the article then goes on to use 5 seperate points to tell you what your conscience decision should be.
The secret elders manual makes these points, and I believe it is these reasons why you are being pursued
Since true dedicated Christians are "no part of the world," if a member of the congregation unrepentantly pursues a course in violation of his Christian neutrality, he thereby disassociates himself from the neutral Christian congregation. (John 15:19; 17:14-16; w82 1/15 p. 31)
Elders should talk to one known to be contemplating taking such a course, since he may be doing so in ignorance. (Ps. 119:67; Gal. 6:1; 1 Tim. 1:13)
If he disregards the help proffered and pursues a course in violation of Christian neutrality, a committee should send the facts substantiating the disassociation to the branch office on the S-77 and S-79 forms. [See also ks91 p143]
If the elders insist on meeting you, it could go badly if you don't thoroughly know your stuff. How would being disassociated ultimately affect you? Have you got close family in?
This helpful webpage is excellent to read through to give you some solid arguments for your case.
http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/quotes/voting.php
Good luck and please keep us informed.
