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Minutes for HB2006 - Committee on Local Government
Short Title
County commission boards; expansion of commissioners; special election.
Minutes Content for Tue, Jan 24, 2017
Chairperson Williams opened the hearing on HB2006- An act concerning counties; relating to the expansion of the board of county commissioners.
Mike Heim presented an overview of the bill.
Representative Claeys testified in support of the bill, stating it would allow voters the opportunity to elect the county commissioners added when voters approve an increase in the number of commission members, instead of having the new members be appointed by the governor. The cost of a special election is small and would take place rarely as few counties are of a size to contemplate expansion of their commission.(Attachment 1)
Melissa Wangemann testified in support of the bill, stating amendments to guide the election process would be necessary to clarify the bills intent for additional county commissioners. A recent situation in Saline County, which increased the board from three to five commissioners, was filled by the Governor instead of the electorate. (Attachment 2)
Brian Caskey submitted neutral written testimony, commenting the Secretary of State office requests changing the timing and procedure of the special election. (Attachment 3)
Mike Heim presented an overview on an amendment. (Attachment 4)
Chairperson Williams closed the hearing.
Representative Thimesch moved, seconded by Representative Cox, for the proposed technical amendment addressing; timing of election, county convention expansion, and independent nominations, to be adopted. Motion carried.
Representative Alcala moved, Representative Phelps seconded, to recommend HB2006 as amended, favorably for passage. Motion carried.
There being no additional information to come before the committee, the meeting was adjourned at 1:45 PM.
The next scheduled meeting will be January 26th.
