Except as otherwise provided in this part, the provisions of the Elections Code prescribed for independent nominations shall substantially govern the manner of appointment of verification deputies, the form of nomination papers and the securing of signatures, the filing of the candidate’s affidavit, and all other things necessary to get the name of the candidate upon the ballot. However, not more than 95 days prior to the election, upon request, the secretary of the district shall issue nomination papers and all other forms required for nomination to the
office of director. Verification deputies may obtain signatures to the nomination paper of any candidate at any time not more than 95 days nor less than 74 days prior to the election, and all nomination papers shall be filed with the secretary of the district not more than 90 nor less than 74 days before the date of the election and shall be examined by him. Each candidate, at least 74 days prior to the election, shall file a sufficient candidate’s affidavit. The secretary of the district shall certify the names of all candidates to be placed upon the ballot to the county elections official or county elections officials within the territory affected at least 67 days prior to the date of election.