A by-election for the Waihemo Community Board could cost between $5400 and $16,000, depending on whether a vote needs to be held.
Waitaki District Council electoral officer Debbi Miall said if no nominations were received or only one nomination was, and a vote was not necessary, the cost of the process was estimated at $5400.
However, if two or more nominations were received, and a vote had to be held, that was estimated at $16,000.
The by-election was needed following the resignation of second-term board member Diane Curtis because a change in jobs did not give her the time she felt was needed for the board.
Because the resignation came more than 12 months before the next local body elections, which will be held in October next year, the vacancy had to be filled through a by-election.
Nominations opened on Thursday and close on Thursday, July 19.
If an election is needed, it will be by postal vote. Papers will go out between August 15 and 20 and voting will close at noon on September 7.
Papers will be processed as they are returned but numbers will remain confidential until a preliminary result is declared, probably by 5pm on September 7.
If no nominations are received, the board can make an appointment.
If one nomination is received, the person is elected unopposed.
