Kootenai County Elections Department forecasts potential budget overages for May election

In the heart of Kootenai County, the Board of County Commissioners gathered to discuss pressing financial matters concerning the upcoming elections. Asa Gray, the Elections Manager, presented a candid overview of the department's budget status, revealing potential challenges that could arise as the county prepares for its next electoral event.

Gray began by highlighting the aftermath of the largest presidential election in Kootenai County's history, which saw an unprecedented number of voters and ballots cast. This surge in participation led to a significant increase in both temporary and overtime staffing needs, with the elections department already exhausting its overtime budget. With another election on the horizon in May, Gray noted that the department has just under $8,000 left in its temporary seasonal salaries, which may not be sufficient to cover the necessary staffing for early voting and the weeks surrounding the election.

The discussion turned to the operating budget, where Gray pointed out specific line items that had exceeded expectations during the November election. The costs associated with election supplies, including ballot printing and absentee ballot assembly, were notably higher than anticipated. Gray explained that the department had to send out 3,000 more absentee ballots than planned, leading to increased printing and assembly costs. Additionally, the need for a two-page ballot further complicated budgeting efforts, as the exact requirements can be difficult to predict ahead of an election.

Another factor contributing to the budget strain was the statutory requirement to destroy records, which had been delayed and resulted in an unexpected increase in shredding costs. Gray estimated that the overall budget for the elections department could exceed projections by $8,000 to $10,000, a figure that will become clearer after the May election concludes.

As the meeting wrapped up, Gray assured the commissioners that by late June, they would have a more accurate picture of the budget's final standing. The discussions underscored the complexities and financial pressures that accompany the electoral process, reminding all present of the importance of careful planning and resource allocation in ensuring a smooth voting experience for Kootenai County residents.