1. The word “owner” as used in sections 242.010 to 242.690 shall mean the owner of the freehold estate, as appears by the deed record, and it shall not include reversioners, remaindermen, trustees, or mortgagees, who shall not be counted and need not be notified by publication, or served by process, but shall be represented by the present owners of the freehold estate in any proceeding under said sections.

2. Owners of property, located in whole or in part within the drainage district and owned by a corporation, partnership, joint venture, or any other form of ownership other than individual ownership, may delegate through procedures allowed as provided by the laws of this state an individual to exercise representation and voting on behalf of the corporation, partnership, joint venture, or other entity in matters requiring public vote involving the drainage district. For purposes of drainage districts organized pursuant to the laws of this state, any individual so recognized by the corporation, partnership, joint venture, or other entity as having the responsibilities of representing the property owner before the board of supervisors of the drainage district shall in all respects be treated by laws of this state as the owner of the property, and shall be entitled to all benefits and privileges allowed by law, including serving on the board of supervisors if so elected.