White County Board of Elections and Registration has presented a draft of its proposed regulations and by-laws for review ahead of a possible vote next month.
Board members have discussed the framework since they officially assumed their role overseeing county election operations in January. At its May 3 meeting, the group agreed to set the draft for public inspection.
Board Chairman Dwayne Turner said the document includes much of the rules outlined in the state Senate bill creating the elections board. Among the highlights are:
• Each of the Board’s five members must be an elector and resident of White County and are appointed by the White County Board of Commissioners. Regular terms for members will be four years. Every two years, the Board will select a chairperson. Members will also elect a vice chairperson and secretary. Committees may also be formed to work on select issues.
• The Board shall meet at least quarterly, and can call meetings as needed in accordance with Georgia Open Meeting law. A quorum is formed with three members in attendance.
• The Board provides direction and policy to the elections and registration supervisor about conducting primaries and elections, voter registration and general operations of the office.
• The elections and registration supervisor is responsible for day-to-day operations of the office and direct supervision of its employees. This is a White County government position that reports to the county manager. The county government is also responsible for providing resources for operations as required by state law.
• The by-laws may be amended by a majority vote of the Board at any regular meeting with notice of such change to the rules was given at least five working days prior to the meeting. If no notice was given, the proposed changes shall be voted on a subsequent regular meeting following their introduction.
The Board is expected to consider a vote on approving the proposed by-laws at its June 7 meeting.
The draft document can be viewed by clicking here, as well as at the Board of Elections and Registration office at 1241 Helen Highway, Suite 210- A, in Cleveland.