Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Special election expected in November 2024
During a special meeting on Friday, Dec. 15, Eddy County commissioners agreed on a path forward following the sudden resignation of auditor Patty Williams.
Regarding a long-term solution, State’s Attorney Ashley Lies told commissioners that Eddy County can hold a special election to fill the vacancy as early as 2024.
Typically the position wouldn’t be on the ballot until 2026, as Williams was last elected in 2022. However, N.D. Century Code dictates that a special election may be called in the instance of a resignation.
The commission agreed that holding a special election would be best for the county moving forward, and the earliest opportunity to do so will be the general election in November 2024.
The decision was not final, however, as a motion to officially declare a special election was not made.
In the meantime, the commission will look for an interim auditor to take over after Williams’ last day in office on Friday, Dec. 29.
Commissioners agreed to several minimum qualifications for the position, including a minimum age of 18 years and a minimum education of a high school diploma.
Applicants for the position will receive a list of duties and responsibilities for an auditor, which includes being the county’s chief financial officer, property tax administrator, elections officer and secretary to the county commission.
Williams has told commissioners that she's willing to train whoever is appointed to the interim position.
Those interested in applying must submit a resume and complete an application no later than Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2024. Applications must be submitted to the state’s attorney via email at [email protected], or to the auditor’s office in the courthouse at 524 Central Avenue, New Rockford.
Applications and a detailed job description are available at the auditor’s office, or on the Eddy County website.
The county commission’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 2, 2024. The commissioners agreed to call a special meeting to consider auditor applicants following the Jan. 5 deadline.
