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Pair vie for job of recorder

FAIRMONT — The Martin County Recorder seat is on the ballot this year, with Clark Berry challenging incumbent Diane Sanders.

The candidates have each shared what they believe they bring to the table for the role.

Sanders was appointed to the position in 2017, following the departure of former Recorder Kay Wrucke. She has worked in the office for almost 24 years.

“The main function of the office is the recording and preservation of your real estate documents,” she said. “Technology has revolutionized the real estate industry. Keeping pace or staying ahead of that technology is a constant challenge.

“My job is not only providing information to banks, title companies, attorneys and Martin County residents but ensuring that your records are preserved and available for years to come.”

Berry is a licensed abstractor with more than 16 years of experience.

“An abstractor compiles Abstracts of Title, which are a brief complete history and record of all transfers, mortgages and other documents pertaining to a particular parcel of land and other real estate research,” he said. “I abstract in several county recorders’ offices throughout southern Minnesota. That experience has helped me have a good understanding, and knowledge of the county recorder’s responsibilities.

“Attention to detail is of the utmost importance. I’m a hard-working person, a good leader and a team-focused person with high personal and ethical standards.”

When asked about the importance of the position and why he is running Berry said he understands the importance of peoples’ land as an asset.

“For most of us, our single greatest asset is tied up in land,” he said. “Our homes. Our farms. Our businesses. Land carries the biggest price tag, and mortgages are one of our biggest debts. That’s what the county recorder’s office does — it preserves a record of legal ownership of all the property in the county. It records all the mortgages and liens on that property, and documents all the transfers and sales.

“As the Recorder, I will ensure to promptly record, file and preserve documents accurately, making sure each document meets the requirements,” he said. “I’ll file the real estate documents; county officials’ bonds; oaths of office; and federal and state tax liens; record military service discharges; and issue certified copies; originate Certificates of Title conveying land under the Torrens Land System; issue vital records (marriage licenses, birth and death certificates); accept passport applications; and all other duties, in an efficient, responsible and professional manner for the posterity and legal purposes. As the recorder, everyone in Martin County is my customer and my No. 1 priority. I treat everyone with respect and honesty.”

Sanders says she believes she is the best candidate for the position because of her experience with the many technological advancements and changes she has seen over the years. She also cites her attention to detail as a vital skill.

“Being the recorder is a full-time position and it is my only job,” she said. “I do not own an abstracting and title business which would create a conflict of interest.

“Many changes have taken place during my tenure in the recorder’s office. Services and programs have changed. My commitment to detail, procedure and customer service has always been a priority.

“I feel my years of experience and hands-on knowledge of real estate and vital records makes me the best choice for the Martin County Recorder. I would appreciate your vote on Nov. 6.”

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