Legislative findings; qualifications for county commissioners

(a) The Legislature finds that: (1) There is confusion concerning when a candidate for county commission must be a resident of the magisterial district he or she wants to represent; (2) The supreme court has discussed the residency requirement in several cases and has conflicting interpretations; (3) It is imperative that this issue be permanently resolved at the time of filing to ensure the citizens have choice on the ballot; (4) It is essential the citizens know they are voting for a person who is qualified to be a candidate; and (5) With the expense of holding an election, tax payer moneys should not be wasted of officials who could never serve. (b) A candidate for the office of county commissioner shall be a resident from the magisterial district for which he or she is seeking election: (1) By the last day to file a certificate of announcement pursuant to section seven, article five, chapter three of this code; or (2) At the time of his or her appointment by the county executive committee or the chairperson of the county executive committee.