5. Discussion on auditor/treasurer/recorder positions

Commission Minutes--January 3, 2006 3021 Commissioners discussed pros and cons of elected versus appointed county offices and referred to the articles of the Cass County Home Rule Charter as provided by Mr. Bennett. Mr. Vanyo said he would be inclined to begin the process with the county recorder's position since the incumbent plans to retire December 31, 2006. Mr. Pawluk said he does not sense any urgency to move this forward at the present time. Perry Ronning, Horace, said he has been involved in township and county matters over the years, and he believes any change should be voted on by county residents. Mrs. Sorum agreed with Mr. Pawluk that there is no hurry to do this now, and she would like more input from the taxpayers. Mr. Vanyo believes the timing is right to move forward on the county recorder position today because residents will be able to address the commission through the ordinance process. Then citizens would have an opportunity to speak further on the two additional positions at a later time. Mr. Wagner said over half of the county positions are appointed now, and he supports moving forward with the ordinance first reading. He believes the home rule charter, which was approved by the voters, addresses the ordinance process for converting specified elected offices into appointed offices. MOTION, failed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to approve the first reading of Ordinance#2006-1, Converting County Recorder from Elective to Appointive Position; and to set the second reading/adoption of ordinance for February 6, 2006, to allow time for publishing a summary of the ordinance in the official newspaper of the county at least 20 days before the second reading. The motion failed on a roll call vote with Mr. Vanyo and Mr. Wagner voting "Aye"; Mr. Bennett, Mr. Pawluk and Mrs. Sorum opposing. Mr. Bennett asked if there were any other motions, and none were offered. 10. VOUCHERS, Approved MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to approve Voucher No. 203,626 through Voucher No. 203,915. On roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously. 11. Meeting updates, Committee reports Mrs. Johnson said she is meeting with City of Fargo representatives tomorrow to discuss projects that may aid the city and county for mutually effective and efficient governance. Mr. Wagner suggested compiling a list of legislative issues for 2007 through the state association, beginning with state and county highway standards. Mr. Burdick said a number of Cass County assistant state's attorneys will be attending the State's Attorney Association conference in Mandan later this month.