Lancaster County Election Commissioner David Shively is resigning his post Friday after a 23-year tenure in the position. Shively began his role in 1999 with a political and campaign background.
KLIN News asked Shively what he’ll miss and remember from his time in office. “I’ll certainly miss the staff and the people. That’s going to be the biggest thing,” said Shively. “As far as big elections, the 2000 election will probably go into my memory first, because that was the year that really made a lot of changes happen in the administration process.”
As for who will take the torch next, Shively says he’ll have nothing to do with finding his successor. “That’ll be up to [Governor Pillen] and his staff.”
While Shively will not take part in finding Lancaster County’s next Election Commissioner, he did deliver some tips on what it takes to do the job right. First, the ideal candidate should have some experience in the electoral process in one way or another. Skills in managing a team is key, too. “You have a staff of eight people who work in the election office full time,” explained Shively, “and then we’ll bring in anywhere from another 15 to 30 people depending on the election to work on that, plus you’ve got the almost-1,000 poll workers and polling locations that need to be recruited for each election.”
Jim Pillen announced on Jan. 13 that he would begin seeking qualified applicants to fill Shively’s position.
Those who wish to apply may do so through the Governor’s Boards and Commissions portal or in writing to the Office of the Governor. Applicants must be registered voters and must have lived in Lancaster for at least one year. Additional information is available at the governor’s website.
The appointment is a four-year term. Pillen’s appointee will finish out the current term on Sept. 6.