Commission notes petition‑funded special election for Hope incorporation; county not bearing cost

Commissioners discussed a memorandum of understanding tied to a petitioned special election on whether the community of Hope will incorporate as a municipality.

Elections director Alexandria Stevens told the commission the election expense is being borne by the petitioner and that the group had raised about $18,000 to cover costs. "They have raised $18,000," Stevens said when asked who would pay; she confirmed the county would not fund the election.

Commissioners asked about the practical effects of incorporation on county services. Staff and commissioners noted that, if Hope incorporates, the county would continue to provide sheriff's services as it does now for Pike Road and other areas; there would be no immediate change to the county's provision of law enforcement.

Commissioners also heard from several Hope residents in attendance who have been working for months to reach this stage and who will face the ballot question in a special election. The commission waived rules to place the memorandum on the agenda and proceed with the election paperwork.

"All of this is being borne by the county — or no, they're paying for it. We're not coming out with a dime," a commissioner said in committee discussion, summarizing staff comments that the petitioner is covering costs. Staff also noted statutory requirements that petitioners satisfy procedural terms for incorporation election filings.

The commission did not take further binding action at the meeting beyond agreeing to process the memorandum and allowing the petitioner‑funded election to proceed through the elections office.