SECRETARY OF STATE UPDATES VOTERS ON POST-ELECTION AUDITS

 (Pierre, S.D.) – With the June 4th Primary Election quickly approaching, Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson would like to update voters on the newest process being implemented to ensure the accuracy of South Dakota’s elections: post-election audits.

Post-election audits must be conducted within fifteen days of the completion of the state canvassing of a primary or general election, which means that they will occur between June 12-26 this year. During an audit, voted ballots from five percent of the precincts in each county (randomly selected by the county auditor in front of the county canvassing board without the use of a computer) will be hand counted, and the results of the hand count will be compared with the results produced by the automatic tabulating equipment that was used in the election. All audits will be conducted by a county auditing board composed of members appointed by the county auditor. In order to provide added transparency, each county auditing board must have members from different political parties. Voters can be confident in the integrity of South Dakota’s elections. Tabulating machines, in use for over twenty years, will be verified with post-election audits by our county auditors.

“A post-election audit is another check and balance to ensure integrity of South Dakota elections,” said Secretary Johnson. “It gives voters assurance their vote was counted and that all election results can be trusted.”

Just like the mandatory tests of automatic tabulating equipment that occur before each election as well as all election-day processes, post-election audits are open to the public. We encourage everyone to go watch and participate if they get the chance. Please visit the Secretary of State’s website at https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/election-resources/post-election-audits.aspx to learn more about South Dakota’s new post-election audits.

The Fall River County Courthouse will be closed Monday, May 27th, in observance of Memorial Day.  Regular office hours will resume Tuesday, May 28th.

Telephone Scam – Secretary Johnson Warns Citizens of fake groups claiming to be making calls on behalf of SOS Office

(Pierre, S.D.) – Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson is warning South Dakotans to be aware of scammers after citizens have reported receiving calls, coming from random numbers with a 605-area code, where the caller is claiming they are with the Secretary of State’s office. Scammers are pushing the voters to challenge the Abortion Rights ballot measure petitions.

The Secretary of State’s office has alerted law enforcement as to these groups impersonating themselves as SOS staff. The groups have stated they are the South Dakota Integrity Committee or the Petition Integrity Commission. It appears that the calls are trying to pressure voters into asking that their name be removed from the Abortion Rights petitions. “Citizens in South Dakota, by law, have the right to petition and people like these scammers are eroding public trust in the election process,” stated Secretary Johnson.

People who receive such calls are encouraged to contact the Secretary of State’s Office, the Division of Elections at [email protected] or call 605-773-3537. Please pass along any information that you receive.

A group did form a campaign finance committee this morning named South Dakota Petition Integrity. We are unaware if this group is affiliated with the calls.

More information on specific ballot questions can be found on the Secretary of State’s website: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/general-information/2024/2024-ballot-questions.aspx. For more information on the ballot measure signature withdrawal process may be found here: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/ballot-question-information/Ballot-Measure-Signature-Withdrawal-Information.aspx.

The first half of property taxes are due to the Treasurer’s office by Tuesday, April 30th.  You can pay your taxes over the phone by credit card (additional card processing fee), by check through the mail (postmarked by April 30th), or in person at the courthouse at 906 N River St.

For those planning to pay in person please be aware that road construction has moved to in front of the courthouse. Starting April 29th the parking lots will only be available from the north end. The courthouse/jail parking lot from the intersection of Battle Mountain Ave and N River St and the East parking Lot from the alley access across from the Battle Mountain Ave Convenience Store.

Fall River County Weed Sprayer: This is a part time job with variable days and hours subject to contracted work and weather conditions. Will work May through October. Must be 18 years or older, driver’s license, can lift 50+lbs and physically fit to bend, squat, lift and extensive walking. Must obtain SD commercial pesticide applicator licenses with General and Right-of-Way.

Experience with maintenance of small engines and pump systems preferred. Must be able to apply herbicides/pesticide and operate ATV-UTV vehicles, pickups and trailers, ability to read maps and legal descriptions, ability to work independently, positive attitude and a desire to learn. Salary: $11.20 – $13/hr depending on experience. Call 605-745-5047 for more information. See employment page for application. Position open till filled.