Candidate questionnaire: Scott R. Clark

Candidate Name: Scott R. Clark

Party: Republican

Age: 25

Place of birth: Poplar Bluff, Mo.

Spouse: None

Children: None

Occupation: Retail supervisor

Education: Master's of Public Administration, Southeast Missouri State University; Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting, Southeast Missouri State University; Associate of Arts in Business Administration, Three Rivers Community College

Employer: JC Penney

Businesses owned, all or part: None

Previous offices held/sought: Ran unsuccessfully for Carter County treasurer in 2006

Question 1: Technology is changing rapidly and the recorder of deeds office must keep pace. What changes are needed to keep the office up-to-date?

Answer: Currently, little to no information about the Recorder of Deeds office exists on Cape Girardeau County's website. Many counties -- both larger and smaller than Cape Girardeau (examples include Boone, Buchanan, Cass, City of St. Louis, Clay, Nodaway and St. Charles) -- have databases available online that allow for public researching of information from the Recorder's office. Even adding basic information online -- such as hours of operation, fee schedules and contact information -- would be beneficial.

Question 2: What can be done to make the recorder's office function more effectively?

Answer: Integrating information systems with offices such as the county assessor and collector would streamline the workload and provide greater convenience to residents. Also important to the effectiveness of the office is utilizing products and services (such as technology) available locally, which can offer a time and cost savings while supporting local enterprise. Customer service is also critical to the effectiveness of any office, and is something I will always make a priority.

Question 3: What in your background or education makes you more qualified to be recorder of deeds than your opponents?

Answer: My professional background in management, Master's degree in Public Administration, experience with records management and long-standing interest in local government all combine to make me a highly qualified candidate. I have served in Republican politics for the last six years, currently as treasurer of the Cape Girardeau County Republican Central Committee, as a member of the local and state board of directors for Pachyderms and treasurer for the 27th Republican Senatorial District Committee.

Question 4: How important is experience to operating the recorder's office?

Answer: My professional experience and educational background are key qualifications to this position. Beyond that, the Recorder's office needs someone who is forward thinking. Technology will have a major impact on the way future business is conducted between the residents and the Recorder. Customer service is also critical to this office; my years of experience in a customer service-oriented field will be very beneficial to the role of Recorder.

Closing remarks: For the first time in many years, Cape Girardeau County voters will have a Republican choice for the Recorder of Deeds office. My conservative values will bring a solid balance between the rights of residents and the efficient conveyance of public information within this office, as well as a sense of fiscal responsibility. I ask that voters consider my drive, unique qualifications and dedication to public service. Thank you for your support on Aug. 3rd.