Mills County elections office warns of heavy overtime; court weighs hiring and supplements

Elections staff told the commissioners that changes to state election rules and heavier administrative duties are creating sustained staffing pressure and significant overtime liabilities.

The elections official summarized the workload: "We start elections 6 weeks to 8 weeks before voting ever happens," and added that preparation, ballot proofs, training and new audits now require weeks of additional staff time before and after election day. The office estimated very high overtime per election when accounting for weekend set-up, long poll days and post-election audits; staff gave an example calculation that election overtime and related costs could add roughly $20,000 per major election in extra payroll.

Options discussed included a one-time supplement tied to SB 22 funding, creation of an elections-administrator position, or hiring an additional clerk (full- or part-time) so trained staff are available during heavy cycles. Commissioners noted trade-offs — supplements can be temporary and may disappear if grant funds stop, while hiring creates recurring costs but reduces overtime and burnout.

Why it matters: Elections administration carries statutory duties and new technical requirements that increase both workload and legal exposure for county staff; understaffing risks errors, staff burnout and late reporting. The clerk—s office asked for clear direction so that salaries and supplemental lines can be posted and advertised as required.

Next steps: Commissioners asked staff to explore two paths — a temporary supplement vs. a permanent hire — and to provide line-item options for both approaches at the next budget meeting. No final decision or vote was taken during the workshop.