Letter to the Editor - Hill County Clerk and Recorder's Office misrepresented

Editor,

As a previous employee of Hill County’s Clerk and Recorder’s Office, I am replying to the interview of one of the candidates for clerk and recorder, Tina Salazar, published in Havre Daily News April 18 and her letter published April 15. I was taken back by her negative comments about the office. I don’t know Salazar because I left before she moved to Havre, but I can share my experience with the current clerk and recorder, Sue Armstrong, the office environment and staff I got to know and work with.

I moved from Helena to Havre in 2018 and worked at Bear Paw Vet until I joined the clerk and recorder’s office. I worked there from October 2019 until April 2021. I planned to be there permanently after buying a home in Kremlin, but due to a personal situation I chose to move back to Helena. It was the most positive work experience I have held to-date. Everyone welcomed me with open arms and treated me with respect. It was not an easy job to step into. It required knowing so much more than I knew to begin with, but everyone was patient in training me and helping me find my way around the office.

Salazar’s interview mentioned she only worked in the office a short time before leaving to focus on running for clerk and recorder. It seems like working in the office would be a great opportunity to understand the day-to-day demands while establishing relationships with the staff and those that frequent the office for the services it provides. Most duties of the office are tied to processes and procedures that are driven by rules and regulations set by both Hill County and the state of Montana. What better way to learn than being an employee in the office?

Not sure what instigated Salazar’s negative outlook, but I do know a positive work environment starts at the top. Sue ensured the office ran smoothly by providing a welcoming and engaging workplace. It was a true team environment. We supported each other and made sure the residents of Hill County received the best service possible. I left every day feeling accomplished and proud to work in that office.

My time there will always hold a special place in my heart. When I read the negative statements from Salazar, I felt it was my duty to ensure Hill County heard the truth.

Rachel Pace

Helena