What happens if there are fewer candidates nominated than seats available?

If we do not receive at least the same number of valid nominations as there are places for any electoral division, the shortfall will be made up by reappointing the required number from the retiring members for the division, as per Regulation 17 of the Land Drainage (Election of Drainage Boards) Regulations, 1938 (SI 1938 No.558). However, if one or more of the retiring members is unable to be reappointed for any reason whatsoever or the Returning Officer is compelled to re-elect one or more of the retiring members by lot, the Returning Officer will request the Board to fill the vacancies at the earliest opportunity after the Election and consider reconstituting to reduce the number of members, in accordance with its Election of Members Policy.