Panel backs modernizing elections for soil and water conservation districts

Commissioner Strain presented House Bill 847 to modernize election procedures for district supervisors of soil and water conservation districts, saying the existing process dates to the mid-20th century and carries high paper-ballot printing costs in large districts.

"What this does is very simple. We are modernizing," the commissioner said, describing a need to allow the secretary of state's office to handle larger elections to ensure orderly administration.

The bill would treat the districts as political subdivisions and allow election administration that mirrors other state subdivisions, reducing confusion and cost, supporters said. A Farm Bureau card in support was filed and the commissioner and committee noted coordination with the secretary of state's office and local conservation district stakeholders.

Senator Womack moved to report HB 847 favorably; the committee recorded no opposition and the bill was reported out.