Aug. 2014 Election: Cape County Recorder of Deeds

__Name:__ Scott R Clark

__Age:__ 29

__Place of birth:__ Poplar Bluff, Missouri

__Spouse, children's names:__ NA

__Occupation:__ Recorder of Deeds

__Employer:__ Cape Girardeau County

__Businesses owned, all or part:__ NA

__Previous offices held or sought:__ Cape Girardeau County Recorder of Deeds

__E-mail:__ clark4recorder@gmail.com

__How will you evaluate your performance in the office?:__

The opinions of those who utilize the office and those who work there, as well as by the improvements made within the office is my measuring stick. When a customer tells me that the great customer service we gave them helps them give great customer service, I know we have done our job. I'm proud of the progress made over the past three years in the Recorder's office, and of the positive feedback I've received.

__What are the most important improvements needed in the office?:__

The last three years have focused on improving public access, customer convenience and efficiency.Among those improvements is an enhanced website with new electronic document request capabilities and payment processing. An expanded electronic database has made more documents searchable, viewable and printable -- some back to 1806. The biggest difference-maker for local attorneys, banks and title companies has been e-recording, which launched in 2012 and allows for faster, more efficient recording. I will continue these improvements.

__What do you believe can be done to keep the county fiscally stable?:__

The Recorder's office is a small percentage of the county's overall budget, however every cost savings adds to the collective. We only spend what is necessary for the operations of the office. Many of my efforts have resulted in fiscal savings for both the office and the businesses that rely on our services. One process that was once done outside of the office is now done internally by me, saving $7,000.00 a year.

__What makes you the best candidate for the position?:__

My experience and education, including my master's degree in public administration with an emphasis on records management, makes me qualified. However, what makes me the best candidate for the position is my dedication to serving the community, and improving the office for the benefit of those who utilize our services and the county as a whole. The improvements and enhancements made during my first term speak to that, especially e-recording and greater access to records.