The Utah County Commission convened on July 26, 2023, to discuss critical staffing needs within the county clerk's office, particularly concerning election management. The meeting highlighted the ongoing debate regarding the appointment of a chief deputy for the county clerk, who also serves as the elections officer.

The discussion began with a review of previous conversations from November 2022, where the need for a chief deputy was initially questioned. The county clerk expressed that the role was necessary to support the administrative functions of the elections office, especially as the county prepares for upcoming elections. The clerk noted an influx of public concern and emails regarding the staffing structure, indicating a strong interest in maintaining election integrity.

Commissioner Sackovich acknowledged the need for a chief deputy but emphasized that the size of the department should dictate the number of appointed positions. He suggested that the current confidential assistant role could be upgraded to a chief deputy position without compromising election oversight. The conversation revealed differing opinions on how to balance administrative support with the need for robust election management.

Commissioners discussed the possibility of reallocating funds from unfilled positions to create a time-limited role that could assist with election preparations. They recognized the urgency of hiring qualified personnel as the county approaches a municipal primary and a presidential election year. The commission agreed to prioritize the hiring process for an elections director and to expedite the reclassification of the current position to chief deputy.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of maintaining a focus on election integrity while also addressing the administrative needs of the clerk's office. The commissioners expressed their commitment to finding a solution that would enhance the efficiency of the elections process without diminishing oversight. Further steps will be taken to ensure that the necessary staffing changes are implemented promptly, reflecting the county's commitment to effective election management.