SCHWAB ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF JOHNSON COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSIONER
Friday, February 21, 2020
TOPEKA – Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab today announced the appointment of Connie Schmidt as Johnson County Election Commissioner to oversee the 2020 elections. Fred Sherman has been appointed Deputy Election Security Commissioner for 2020 and will assume the position of Johnson County Election Commissioner by January 4, 2021.
“We are pleased Ms. Schmidt will be returning as Johnson County Election Commissioner to oversee the 2020 elections,” said Secretary Schwab. “Her knowledge and expertise in election administration will be invaluable to the county for the upcoming election cycle.”
Ms. Schmidt has 31 years of experience in local government having previously served a City Clerk for Merriam, Kansas and as Johnson County Election Commissioner from 1995 to 2004. She is nationally recognized for her expertise in election administration. Ms. Schmidt has served as Chair of the Professional Education Program Certification Board for the Election Center, member of the NASED Voting Systems Standards Board, and member of the State of Kansas HAVA Implementation Committee. Since 2005 she has owned and managed an election consulting business to provide services to local, state, and federal governmental entities, including the Election Assistance Commission.
“Mr. Sherman has an impressive background in management, finance and government,” said Secretary Schwab. “His experience, combined with Ms. Schmidt’s tutelage, will ensure a quality election experience for the residents of Johnson County.”
Mr. Sherman has resided in Johnson County since 1995. He has over 25 years of municipal and county government experience and a strong background in management and finance. Mr. Sherman is a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), American Planning Association (APA), American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), and the University of Kansas Urban Planning Advisory Board. He was a participant in the Local Government Supervision Certificate Program and holds a Credentialed Manager designation from ICMA. Most recently, Mr. Sherman served as the Chief Administrative Officer and City Clerk for the city of Westwood, Kansas. He is a graduate of the University of Kansas and holds a master’s degree from Georgia Tech. Mr. Sherman is a resident of Olathe.
A committee of representatives from Johnson County government and the Office of Secretary of State conducted a series of interviews last week and forwarded their recommendations to Secretary Schwab. Upon review of the recommendations, Secretary Schwab interviewed the finalists and collaborated with county officials on the final decision.
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