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SEB authorizes investigator pilot and debates access to emails, Firefly and staffing
Summary
The board authorized up to $10,000 for a pilot private-investigator contract to probe selected complaints, debated access to Firefly/Jarvis and missing SEB emails, and discussed hiring a staff attorney and D&O insurance to manage litigation and records burdens.
At its Feb. 18–19 session the State Election Board authorized Director Mills to contract a licensed private investigator for a small pilot (one to four investigations) and to spend up to $10,000 for the project. The motion, advanced to expedite selected investigations beyond the pace of existing staff resources, passed by voice vote.
Members also pressed for the board’s access to communications and records. Member Grubs sought readonly access to the Secretary of State’s Firefly/Jarvis systems so the board could verify county communications and voter‑registration data; counsel for the Secretary of State’s office, quoted from an email during the meeting, said the office opposed unrestricted access citing a potential chilling effect on counties. Board members objected that denial of access impedes independent oversight.
Separately, members discussed staff needs and protections. Director Mills outlined the D&O insurance application process; several members urged hiring a staff attorney or conflict counsel because the Attorney General’s office may face conflicts when representing both the SOS and the SEB. Director Mills and members said staff will research contracting options and report back when funds permit.
What happens next: Director Mills will proceed to identify an investigator and attempt to negotiate a contract for the pilot within the authorized $10,000 cap. Staff will continue discussions with the Secretary of State’s office about access to emails and system data and report to the board on D&O insurance and options for retained or conflict counsel.
