"I've been here 14 years and I have never seen a purchase by an elected official that did not go through the proper process of county policy," added Southern District Commissioner Karen Miller

However, Noren said she followed state purchasing laws and court rulings that support her action. She said the commission legally must pay the tab for the new voting machines.

"He [Schnarre] is just a loser taking a few swipes on his way out the door," said Noren. "He just hasn't done his homework. He's the county commissioner and he doesn't even know what his job is. No wonder he lost [the election]."

"No, I'm setting the record straight so people know how things operate in county government," Schnarre responded. "I do know what my job is. The other elected officials are not above the rules everybody has to follow, and it is time the people follow the rules."

Miller and Northern District Commissioner Skip Elkin said they'll vote for the budget amendment because the county knew it had to buy the voting equipment.