PROVO — Utah County commissioner-elect Larry Ellertson will be sitting in on the discussions concerning the county government's 2005 budget, which will go into effect Jan. 1. But first he had to sign a confidentiality agreement that restricts what he can do with information he receives.

Since Ellertson doesn't take office until January, he isn't considered a county employee and cannot legally be given access to information such as what cases the county attorney anticipates, security improvements, potential layoffs and possible real estate purchases.

State law does allow for him to attend meetings — if bound by a legal agreement.

"He's not going to be voting on the budget but he'll be living with it," said Commissioner Jerry Grover. "It's useful for him to be there."

Ellertson — who ran unopposed for the seat being vacated by Commissioner Gary Herbert — is Lindon's mayor.