Election Board sets hearings for failure to file finance reports
ANDERSON — The Madison County Election Board has set a hearing date for four candidates who didn't file campaign finance reports in 2023.
A hearing will take place May 15 for the following candidates: Republican Jon Bell for Anderson mayor; Donita Thompson, a candidate for the District 6 seat on the Anderson City Council who lost in the Democratic Party primary; John Poor, a Republican candidate for the District 2 seat on the Anderson City Council; and Republican Ricky Payne, who ran for mayor in Elwood.
Madison County Clerk Linda Smith made a motion to waive all penalties and take no additional action against several committees that didn't file campaign finance reports in 2022.
She said almost all of the committees have been disbanded.
Smith said of the list of candidates who didn't file campaign finance reports in 2023, only the four that have had hearings set resolved the reporting status.
The Election Board also began to formalize the complaint process and the method by which complaints will be handled.
'This is a draft,' Election Board President Tim Lanane said.
The document outlining the process and the complaint form will be posted on the county's website.
Lanane said the board will consider public comments, and a decision could be made at the next meeting.
Complaints must be written on the proper form, properly executed and the allegation stated in writing.
Election Board members are to be notified within 48 hours of a complaint being filed.
'The board will determine if a hearing is necessary,' Lanane said.
Each board member will respond to the complaint, and if no response is made the recommendation is no response is required.
If no board member responds, the Election Room deputy clerk will follow up on the complaint by letter. There can be an investigation of the complaint and a formal hearing.
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