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Lincoln County commissioners appoint Herman Otten to fill District 2 vacancy
Summary
After public comment and a ballot-style vote, the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners appointed Herman Otten to the District 2 seat. The ballot process and results were read into the record and the appointee was sworn in the same evening.
The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners appointed Herman Otten on July 7, 2026, to fill the District 2 vacancy following a public comment period and a ballot-style selection process. The board used a ballot method recommended under Robert’s Rules of Order; ballots and the commissioners’ choices were recorded in the auditor’s office.
Drew DeGruv of the state attorney’s office explained the process to the board, telling commissioners the ballot style “is the recommended method by Robert’s Rules of Order” and that it allows commissioners to express ranked preferences across multiple rounds if needed. The board agreed to take public comment before casting ballots.
Several residents and local leaders spoke during the public comment period, urging the board to appoint someone familiar with District 2’s rural infrastructure and agricultural needs. Eric Scott, a District 2 resident and former planning commissioner, urged the commission to choose an appointee who understands the district’s road and township governance. Eric Anabaugh withdrew his own interest and publicly endorsed Dwayne Carlson.
After ballots were collected and read aloud by staff, the results were announced and recorded on the public ballot form. Staff read the counts and the chair declared, “So by majority, Herman Otten, 3 to 2.” County counsel advised the board that no additional motion was required to confirm the appointment because the ballot outcome was the recorded action. The new commissioner received the oath of office and signed the paperwork before the meeting recessed to allow him to consult briefly with department heads.
The board recorded the ballots as public record in the auditor’s office, as noted during the procedural briefing. Commissioners offered brief congratulations and the meeting moved on to the budget review.
What’s next: Herman Otten will serve in the District 2 seat until the next applicable election cycle or term end as specified by county procedure.
