We asked each candidate to answer a few questions so that you can know a little more about their priorities. See responses from other candidates: Stewart Jenkins
Why do you want to be the SLO County-Clerk Recorder?
As the current SLO County Clerk-Recorder, I know what it takes to ensure that the public is receiving the services that we provide with the utmost integrity, respect, and transparency. I have been committed to working for local government for almost 28 years, building upon each one of my professional opportunities in order for me to achieve my goal of becoming the elected County Clerk-Recorder. Most importantly, there is extreme misperceptions regarding the election process. I am determined to change that by providing opportunities for the public to observe the process and express their many questions and concerns.
What is the most important thing that a County-Clerk Recorder does?
Besides providing exemplary services to all customers, the most important “thing” that the Clerk-Recorder does is build relationships based off of trust within the community. This is achieved by having direct experience and knowledge about the office for which we serve.
If elected, what would you hope to accomplish in your next term?
I am hopeful that the Board of Supervisors will approve my budget request to add more staffing so that the North County office will once again open and provide daily services. I will continue to engage with the community and educate them in regard to our services, putting much emphasis on the integrity of the election process leading into the March 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Lastly, because of so much change within my office, it is crucial that I develop my staff’s strengths so that they can have the skills and knowledge that is expected from the public.
What do you wish more people understood about the role of the Clerk-Recorder in SLO County?
I wish people knew that as the Clerk-Recorder it is imperative to have an immeasurable amount of integrity. I wish they knew that the services that are provided are all very personal in nature. With that in mind, the role of Clerk-Recorder must also have empathy and the ability to openly listen to the public and not just be a figurehead. Lastly, I hope that people truly understand that the Clerk-Recorder is a non-political role and that in no way does the political climate contribute to the decisions that are made and the processes that are performed.
How do you gather the input of the business community in the work of your department?
Although most of the services that we provide are governed by law, we are always open to receiving input from the business community. For example, when we were implementing the new recording system, we invited the local title companies to discuss any new processes that may have an impact on their procedures. We presented their concerns to the new vendor and were able to modify the product to meet their needs and our mandates. We have been using the “new” system for six years and it has been a big asset to our department, the title companies and their customers.
What is the most significant difference between you and your opponents?
The most significant difference between me and my opponents is experience. I am the only candidate that has direct experience working in and as the County Clerk-Recorder. I am also the only candidate that is a principal member of the California Association of Clerks and Election Officials, a principal member of the County Recorders Association of California, a Certified Municipal Clerk, a State Registered Elections Official and a California Professional Election Administrator. By holding these certifications, this assures that I have the competency that is required in administering processes within the state’s rules, regulations and laws.