Frederick County sets special election for Nov. 3, 2026; board adopts application timeline

The Frederick County Board of Supervisors voted Wednesday to set a special election for Nov. 3, 2026, to fill the Gainsborough seat and the chairman vacancy, rejecting earlier, staff‑identified early dates.

County Administrator Mr. Bolhofer told the board that recent state changes to election law and equipment and early‑voting windows constrained available dates. "The earliest possible date that you could hold an election would be 02/24/2026," he said, but added the registrar preferred March 31, 2026, and that the statutory default date is Nov. 3, 2026. Bolhofer also told the board that holding a special election on any day other than Nov. 3 would add roughly $70,000 in additional cost to the county.

Why it matters: The board must balance turnout, cost and statutory deadlines. Several supervisors argued a November federal election would produce higher turnout and avoid the $70,000 expense, while others defended a spring election on turnout and representation grounds.

After discussion, Supervisor Jewell moved to set the election for Nov. 3, 2026. The motion passed on roll call with Supervisors Jewell, Wells, Liero and the Chair voting aye and Supervisor Dunn recorded as nay.

Board next steps: Administrators also outlined a staff‑recommended appointment application process if the board chooses to appoint interim members rather than leave seats vacant. The board approved the application window and public‑meeting schedule: applications open Sept. 11 and close Sept. 24, a public meeting to accept applications is scheduled for Oct. 1, and the board will consider appointments at its Oct. 8 meeting (with Oct. 15/22 as fallbacks). The administrator reminded the board that appointments must be made within 45 days of a vacancy or the circuit court may appoint.

The decision establishes both the public election date and a clear administrative timeline for candidate applications and any interim appointments.