Letter from Sarah McGuire

Vote Basile for Skill, Experience

I am writing today to express my support for Mrs. Jennifer Basile for Otsego County clerk.
First and foremost, Mrs. Basile’s 14 years’ experience and movement up in the ranks at the County Clerk’s Office speaks volumes to her outstanding commitment and qualifications to fill this seat not only with expertise but also with professionalism.

The Office of County Clerk has many moving parts, roles and responsibilities, all of which Mrs. Basile, due to her tenure in the office, is well versed. As the repository of county records, the responsibilities of this office are many including but not limited to: the collection of fees and fines, filings, indexing, property records, certification of court documents, DMV oversight, and the maintenance of all governing body transactions including resolutions and ordinances.

During my tenure as both a town clerk for eight years and a village clerk for approximately five years, I have personally had the absolute pleasure of working with Jen. These positions equate to more than 10 years of witnessing first hand her experience in the office, her willingness to go above and beyond, and her utmost professionalism and in-depth knowledge of the information housed there. Outside of business, I am honored to call Jennifer my friend.

While her opponent, Mr. MacGuire Benton, may well be a good person and likeable, his lack of experience also speaks volumes. I implore all to ask yourselves, “What qualifies Mr. Benton?” Has he for any period of time held a public office successfully? Has he worked in a governmental office setting? Has he ever been tasked with such great responsibility? Has he spent any time priming for the position? If so, how long? While I wish the best for Mr. Benton, I do not see where he is at all qualified to fill this very important seat.

The County Clerk’s Office is not a partisan position; the election process unfortunately forces it. The clerk has no vote on the Board of Representatives; however, I will caveat the initiatives the office pushes for can have an impact on how business is conducted there. I know beyond any doubt Mrs. Basile will push for initiatives that are in the best interest of Otsego County. I cannot speak the same for her opponent.

I strongly urge everyone to please vote experience and not party lines during this upcoming election.

Sarah McGuire
Town of Hartwick