1.  Other candidates for the office may be nominated to be voted for at the special election by petition, which petition shall be signed by qualified electors of the district holding the election, equal in number to 35 percent of the number of votes cast for the director receiving the highest number of votes at the election next preceding.

2.  The nominating petition shall be filed with the secretary of the irrigation district at least 15 days prior to the date of the special election.