McLennan County approved a master services agreement and statement of work with Next Election Services on Sept. 30 to provide support for the county’s voter-registration system ahead of the Nov. 4 constitutional special election.

Jared, the county’s elections official, told the court that VOTEC — the vendor for the county’s voter-registration software — was having difficulties and that Next Election Services is a new group formed by former VOTEC employees who have worked on the county’s system. "This is a group of former VOTEC employees who've come together and they're contracting with counties across the state that are using the same system that we are to help us get through at least this election," Jared said.

Contract terms and funding: The agreement covers four months at $6,264 per month (total $25,057.72). Jared said he will pay Next Election Services from funds he had budgeted for VOTEC services that he does not intend to pay VOTEC this year. The elections office plans to use the support to implement new electronic poll books and to ensure continuity in voter-registration operations for the November election.

Court discussion and vote: Commissioners raised the limited track record of the new company but accepted Jared’s assessment that former VOTEC staff were experienced and recommended the county contract with the new provider for short-term operational continuity. The court approved the contract by voice vote.

Next steps: Elections staff will work with Next Election Services and county IT to implement the support immediately and resolve any system issues before early voting and election day.