Who Serves on the Canvassing Board?

Pursuant to RCW 29A.60.140, the members listed below may periodically be substituted.

By Washington state law, the county auditor serves as the county canvassing board chair; the other members are the county prosecuting attorney and the chair of the county legislative body. In each case, the member may select a designee, under certain conditions. Designations are formal and must be in writing and filed with the county auditor.

Benton County Canvassing Board Members

Auditor

  • Brenda Chilton
  • Most Recent Signature Verification Training Date: June 27th, 2024

Prosecuting Attorney's Office

  • LeeAnn Holt
  • Most Recent Signature Verification Training Date: April 2nd, 2026

Benton County Commissioners, Chair

  • Michael Alvarez
  • Most Recent Signature Verification Training Date: April 2nd, 2026

About the Benton County Canvassing Board

A canvassing board is a public entity that conducts a formal assessment ("canvass") of an election. The assessment includes reviewing vote totals, determining validity of challenged ballots, certifying the vote and administering a recount. Every county in Washington must have a county canvassing board.

All Benton County Canvassing Board meetings take place at Benton County Elections headquarters in Kennewick. All meetings are public meetings (RCW 42.30); all rules must be adopted in a public meeting (RCW 42.56).

2026 Meetings:
February Special Election - February 20th @ 9:00 AM
April Special Election - May 8th @ 9:00 AM
August Primary - August 18th (Immediately following the Benton County Commissioner Meeting)
November General Election - November 24th (Immediately following the Benton County Commissioner Meeting)