(1) The Act provides that the election administrator may designate one or more places within the political subdivision in which the election is conducted as places of deposit where ballots may be returned by the elector or the elector's agent or designee.

(2) Whenever a place of deposit is designated, the election administrator shall also designate at least two election officials who are selected in the same manner as provided for the selection of election judges in 13-4-102, MCA, to be responsible for all mail ballot election procedures at that place of deposit. Such designated election officials shall:

(a) be duly appointed and deputized as provided by law;

(b) take and subscribe to the appropriate oath of office;

(c) serve for the duration of the conduct of that specific election;

(d) be duly trained by the election administrator;

(e) be personally available at such place of deposit as specified in 13-19-307(2), MCA;

(f) personally insure that all required procedures are adhered to; and

(g) personally ensure that all ballots and other official materials in his possession are and remain secure at all times.

(3) The election administrator shall provide a transport box, secured as required, for the deposit of ballots returned to each place of deposit.