The Tribune is partnering with the League of Women Voters of the South Bend Area and the American Democracy Project of Indiana University South Bend to publish candidates' answers to questions on the issues. The League and IUSB's ADP operates Vote411.org , a website with information about the candidates and their positions on key issues. The site also includes other tools to help navigate the voting process.
The Tribune has agreed to run candidate answers unedited, meaning any spelling, typographical or grammatical errors are the candidates' own. The Tribune is publishing only some of the questions from a selection of significant races. Additional questions and answers are available at Vote411.org .
Two candidates will appear on the ballot for St. Joseph County Recorder: Democrat Sharon Banicki and Republican Candace Brown.
Sharon Banicki
Occupation: Fiscal Officer in the St Joseph County Recorders Office
Education: Associate Degree in Computer Science
Email: banickiforrecorder@gmail.com
Campaign Phone: 574-274-2051
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sharonbanickiforsjcrecorder
Candace Brown
Occupation: Owner of Eye Candy Apparel
Education: Some College
Email: Candace@candace4recorder.com
Website: candace4recorder.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555674280817
Explain the responsibilities of the county recorder and which one is most important. How can St. Joseph County residents utilize the recorder’s services?
Banicki: The Recorder is in charge of land records, mortgages ( 1st , 2nd and lines of credit) and deeds. We are also the repository for many other types of documents.
The most important responsibility is ensuring that all documents are recorded in a timely, accurate fashion. Residents use the Recorders office when they want a copy of any documents recorded in our office, deeds to their property, Veterans getting copies of their discharge papers. The public also can file the above listed documents in our office. The public can utilize our services to record documents by coming into the office in person, using Landrecords.net to search for and print out documents remotely , documents can be mailed in for recording or connecting with a company that utilizes electronic filing with the Recorders office.
Brown : The responsibilities of a county recorder include maintaining and preserving public land records, such as deeds and mortgages, ensuring accuracy in document filing, and facilitating public access to these records. While all responsibilities are crucial, the accuracy of document filing stands out as particularly vital, as it underpins the integrity of property transactions and legal processes. The recorder's office further plays an essential role in enforcing state laws related to land records, collecting fees for document services, and performing essential accounting functions. St. Joseph County residents can utilize the recorder's services by accessing public records for property research, title verification, or historical documentation. They can visit the recorder's office in person or utilize online platforms.
What skills and experiences qualify you to be county recorder?
Banicki: I have worked in the Recorders office since December 2016. I have learned every aspect of the office- processing, indexing, posting and auditing documents. I also handle all the financial records- balancing the bank bags, doing the deposits, reconciling month end. I have had yearly advanced training on the office software, attended yearly Recorder Conferences. Prior to working for the County I spent 15 years working for a local owned retail company in the financial department and worked the retail area as needed and before that 10 years at Valley American Bank. I have always been customer service oriented. While employed at Valley American Bank I received many awards for my customer service skills. I have the training and ability to deal with any situation.
Brown : My experience as a business owner has equipped me with a robust set of skills and qualifications that align seamlessly with the responsibilities of a county recorder. Recognizing the significance of meticulous document management in running a successful business, I bring a wealth of expertise in organizational efficiency, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining accurate records. My experience as a business owner has instilled in me a valuable skill set encompassing organizational efficiency, technological adeptness, financial acumen, effective communication, adaptability, ethical leadership, and community engagement. These qualities, uniquely qualify me to serve as the county recorder, where I am committed to leveraging my expertise for the benefit of St. Joseph County and its residents.
Identify and explain one aspect of the county recorder’s office that you would like to adjust or change.
Banicki: I would like the ability to do more Public Service Announcements. Currently we have no way to share our information other than on the County website. This year we were able to form a partnership with the Treasurers office to include a handout explaining our Property Fraud alert program which is free to the public.
Brown : I aim to make a specific adjustment in the county recorder's office to strengthen protections against title fraud, particularly focusing on safeguarding our citizens, especially the elderly, from the illegal seizure of their properties. This adjustment involves enhancing the current record-keeping system by implementing advanced security measures. By utilizing modern and secure technologies, we can establish an additional layer of protection, ensuring the integrity of property titles and minimizing the risk of fraudulent activities. This proactive approach aligns with the commitment to prioritize the security and well-being of our community members, especially those who may be more vulnerable to such fraudulent practices.
What are some possible challenges you expect a new county recorder to face when elected to office? How will you overcome these challenges?
Banicki: My biggest challenge will be protecting the Recorders Perpetuation fund. The fund was set up by the State and the state is very specific on what the money can be used for. The Perpetuation fund can only be used to preserve and maintain records in the Recorders office. The fund covers such things as updating computers, repairing books, updating the plat machine, scanning in the old mortgage and deed books to make them available digitally. The fund cannot be transferred to the County General fund or used for salaries for an employee who has duties outside recording and maintaining records, nor can the fund be used to waive fees on documents or copies. I will not allow the money to be transferred outside the State approved uses. The Recorder must agree to and sign off on any money used from the Perpetuation fund.
Brown : Anticipated challenges for a new county recorder may include adapting to existing systems and managing a diverse range of documents. Overcoming these challenges requires a thorough orientation to understand current processes, implementing effective training programs for staff to ease transitions, and fostering open communication to address concerns. Additionally, establishing collaborative relationships with relevant partners, such as legal professionals and community members, will be crucial in navigating complexities and ensuring a smooth transition. Proactive engagement with the community, coupled with a commitment to transparent and inclusive leadership, will help build trust and facilitate a successful time in office as county recorder.
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Vote411: St. Joseph County Recorder: Democrat Sharon Banicki and Republican Candace Brown
Local News
Comments / 0