We asked each candidate to answer a few questions so that you can know a little more about their priorities. Click on each question to reach the candidate’s answer. See responses from other candidates: Elaina Cano and Gaea Powell.
Why do you want to be the SLO County Clerk-Recorder?
This role is fundamental to maintaining public trust in government. This office safeguards vital records, ensures fair and secure elections, and provides essential services that people rely on during some of the most important moments of their lives.
I’m motivated by a commitment to accuracy, transparency, and accessibility. I want to make sure records are well-managed and easily accessible, while also protecting sensitive information. I value the opportunity to support safe, efficient, and trustworthy elections that the community can have full confidence in.
I’m drawn to the operational side of the position improving processes, modernizing systems where appropriate, and ensuring the office runs efficiently and professionally. My goal would be to provide excellent public service while upholding the integrity and reliability that this office demands.
I see this role as a chance to serve the community by ensuring critical civic functions are handled with care, competence, and accountability.
What is the most important thing that a Clerk-Recorder does?
The most important responsibility of a Clerk-Recorder is to maintain the integrity, accuracy, and security of official records while ensuring public trust. This includes safeguarding vital documents such as birth, death, and marriage records, as well as managing property and legal filings that people depend on for major life and financial decisions.
Equally important is the role the office plays in administering fair, secure, and transparent elections. Ensuring that every eligible vote is counted accurately and that election processes are accessible and trustworthy is essential to democracy.
At its core, the position is about accountability and service protecting sensitive information, providing reliable access to public records, and delivering services efficiently and professionally. By doing these things well, the Clerk-Recorder helps uphold confidence in local government and supports the smooth functioning of the community.
If elected, what would you hope to accomplish in your first year in office?
If elected, my first priority would be to ensure a smooth and stable transition while maintaining the high level of service the community expects. I would take time to assess current operations, meet with staff, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, customer service, and internal processes.
One key goal would be to strengthen election readiness by reviewing procedures, enhancing transparency, and ensuring systems are secure, accessible, and easy for voters to use. I would also look for ways to modernize record management, making documents more accessible to the public while maintaining strong data protection standards.
Additionally, I would prioritize staff development and communication to build a collaborative, high-performing team. Investing in training and supporting employees helps ensure long-term success.
By the end of the first year, I would aim to have implemented meaningful improvements that increase public trust, improve service delivery, and position the office for continued effectiveness and accountability. ce. Establishing a culture of accountability, professionalism, and constitutional fidelity will be central to my leadership.
What do you wish more people understood about the role of Clerk-Recorder in SLO County?
I wish more people understood how central the Clerk-Recorder’s office is to both everyday life and the functioning of local government. Beyond elections, the office is responsible for safeguarding vital records, maintaining property and legal documents, and ensuring that these records are accurate, secure, and accessible.
Many people only interact with the office during major life events such as getting married, buying property, or obtaining a birth certificate but the work behind the scenes is constant and highly detailed. It requires strict attention to accuracy, strong data protection, and a commitment to transparency.
I also think it’s important for the public to understand the level of care and security involved in administering elections. There are extensive checks and processes in place to ensure fairness and integrity.
Overall, the Clerk-Recorder plays a key role in maintaining public trust, and its impact is much broader than many people realize.
How would you gather the input of the business community in the work of your department?
I would take a proactive and structured approach to gathering input from the business community. First, I would establish regular opportunities for engagement, such as roundtables or listening sessions, where local business owners, real estate professionals, and other stakeholders can share feedback on services that impact them.
I would also collaborate with organizations like the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce to better understand common concerns and identify areas for improvement. In addition, I would use surveys and online feedback tools to reach a broader group and make participation convenient.
Equally important is maintaining open lines of communication ensuring that businesses know how to contact the office and receive timely, clear responses. I would also analyze service data to identify trends and pain points affecting the business community.
By combining direct outreach, partnerships, and data-driven insights, I would ensure the department remains responsive, efficient, and supportive of local economic activity.
What is the most significant difference between you and your opponents
The most significant difference I would highlight is my focus on effective administration and public service delivery. I approach this role as a nonpartisan, service-oriented position that requires strong management, attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy and transparency.
My priority is ensuring that the office operates efficiently, that records are secure and accessible, and that elections are conducted with integrity and professionalism. I am focused on practical improvements streamlining processes, supporting staff, and enhancing customer service rather than politics or past mistakes of the opponents.
I also bring a collaborative approach, actively seeking input from San Luis Obispo residents who have shared their concerns and experiences with the current Clerk-Recorder’s office, and using that feedback to guide informed decisions and drive continuous operational improvement.
Ultimately, what sets me apart is my commitment to treating this role as a trusted public service responsibility, with an emphasis on accountability, operational excellence, and maintaining the confidence of the community.