I was pleased to learn of Alberta Klaus' intention to file for re-election as county clerk. it is important to recognize that the county clerk's office is the hub of the county. the county clerk's office is responsible not only for carrying out statutory duties, such as implementation and monitoring of budgets for all county departments and certifying valuations to all taxing entities of the county, but also other duties such as payroll, accounts payable, homestead and food sales claims, processing passport applications, issuing hunting and fishing licenses, and serving as the official keeper of county records.

The implementation and carrying out of election duties is but one of the very important duties of the county clerk. Recent changes in federal and state laws and an increase in costs involved in carrying out those laws have forced changes in the local election processes. New voting machines were purchased and voting precincts were combined and centrally located in order to make voting as easy and accessible as possible. Consolidation of polling places also saves money for the taxpayers. Advance voting opportunities and the ability to request a mail-in ballot assures all registered voters the opportunity to conveniently cast their vote. The county clerk is required to update election procedures and make changes as required by the rules and regulations under federal and state law. Although these changes are not convenient for everyone, the county clerk must follow and change the local election procedures as required by law.

I have had the pleasure of working with Alberta for many years. I interacted with Alberta for 19 years while I served as city clerk of Victoria. I also worked for Alberta as payroll/accounts payable clerk for seven years before moving to Kingman and thoroughly enjoyed working with her in both capacities. While working in the county clerk's office, I found Alberta to be a fair, compassionate and dedicated county clerk, with considerable knowledge of state statutes and county operations that only many years of experience and training can provide.

I encourage you to vote for the person with the experience and expertise in all aspects of the county clerk's official duties. I encourage you to vote for Alberta Klaus for Ellis county clerk on Aug 5.

Alice Sander

Kingman