They aren't the most prestigious elected positions, but auditors and assessors still perform vital duties in Pennsylvania's cities, boroughs and townships. At one time, it was enough to want to serve the public that candidates sought election to these posts. Apparently, times have changed. For the May 15 primary, there are 42 openings for assessor among Northumberland County's 36 municipalities, and just eight candidates on the ballot. There are five municipalities that have all three auditor positions open but nothing but blank spaces on the ballots.
Some municipalities have it worse than that.
In Herndon, for example, no candidates have filed for mayor, tax collector, two council positions and two auditor slots. Albert Santor Jr., Northumberland County's director of elections, said most people do not want to take the time to run for office anymore, in part because of the requirements to get on the ballot. But it is a very big hassle for those who want to apply to be put on the ballot. Potential candidates start by filing a petition. For the petition, a person only needs 10 signatures from registered voters.