This bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the oversight of water districts. It mandates that the state auditor conduct audits of various political subdivisions, including water districts created under specific chapters of the code, every two years. Additionally, it allows for audits to be requested by the governor or by a petition from qualified electors, specifically noting that for water districts, the petition must come from at least thirty-five percent of the qualified electors voting at the preceding annual meeting.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the governance of water districts, including the requirement for bylaws to allow members to nominate candidates for director positions at elections. It establishes a structured election process overseen by the county auditor, detailing the division of directors into classes with staggered terms and the procedure for filling vacancies through special elections. The amendments aim to improve transparency and accountability within water districts, ensuring that elections and governance are conducted in a manner consistent with other political subdivisions.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-10-14, 54-10-15, 61-35-09, 61-35-10