Board delays District 3 appointment discussion to Aug. 13 work session

The Board of Supervisors deferred action on filling the District 3 vacancy until its Aug. 13 work session so staff can report on candidate qualifications and filing deadlines.

The chair said the 13th will show whether candidates have qualified and whether the board can appoint someone or must consider multiple contenders. Board members noted an appointee can be seated sooner than an elected winner if appointed within the statutory 45-day window; if multiple qualified candidates want the seat the board said it will discuss options at the work session.

Supervisor Tucker said appointing a candidate who is also running could give them an advantage; "That's the only fair way of doing it is if you... draw straws," he said, arguing a neutral selection method if the district seeks representation. The board asked staff to return with qualification deadlines and related dates at the Aug. 13 meeting.