Yes. In Quebec, we experimented with different formulas, for example holding a competition and submitting 3 names to the party in power. The party in power chose the person that suited them. Before that, we had the system that you currently have in Ottawa.
I believe that we have finally found the right formula, which is the following. We hold a public competition in each of the ridings. Any person or voter having the ability and the required knowledge may take part in the competition. However, this competition is followed by an interview of the candidates. This interview allows us to see whether or not the future candidate for the position of returning officer has good judgment. It has already happened that we encountered people in this interview having extraordinary knowledge but no judgment.
The first thing that I always say to my returning officers is the following: you must always approach situations with a healthy dose of doubt. Returning officers are appointed for a 10-year period in Quebec.