County certifies August election results after record-low turnout

County Clerk Paula presented and certified the results of the recent August election, reporting two contests (Ozark Schools and a Nixa District 1 council race) and an eligible voter pool of 31,529. The clerk reported 1,300 voters participated, a 4.15 percent turnout, which she and several commissioners described as very low. Commissioners asked about the cost of running an election with few contests and whether charter rules require an election even for unopposed candidates; the clerk estimated preliminary costs near $43,000 and said each entity pays for precinct costs proportionate to eligible voters. Commissioners discussed consolidating polling locations when few voters are expected and whether charter language might allow skipping an election for an unopposed seat. Ending: The commission voted to certify the August election. Commissioners asked staff to explore ways to reduce election costs when turnout is expected to be minimal, including whether charter changes or consolidation are options.