Parma town clerk post on ballot

Donna Curry, town clerk in the Town of Parma, was appointed to replace long-time clerk Carol Kluth, who retired in June.

Curry said the time she has spent in her new position has sped past. "Collection of school taxes is one of the most intense times of the year," she said. "A high volume of business occurs in a short period of time. Adding to this was the roll out of new tax collection software by the Monroe County Treasury, the peak season for hunting and fishing licenses and the everyday volume of renewing your dog license, issuing handicap permits, marriage licenses and so on."

Curry said the people who worked with her during tax season went above and beyond on numerous occasions. "It was a learning process on all levels. The last push for this collection will be at the end of the month and then I plan on compiling and reviewing all the little notes I have made for myself and that staff has shared of things to consider for next season. I will have a wealth of tidbits for next time."

While learning the job and tackling the changes in the tax collection process, Curry said other town clerks and receivers of taxes were a valuable resource in pointing her in the right direction and sharing their expertise.

"I have purposely not made significant changes within the office because I wanted to get a real feel for the cycles that occur in the job. As I move forward in the position I will be identifying things that should be considered for change and review the ones that must be done a specific way," she said. "It is good practice to review what is truly necessary and streamline where you can.

Looking forward, she said she will be extending the town clerk's office hours to 5 p.m. on Thursdays and will continue Thursday evening appointments. "I was a commuter (and couldn't get to the office during regular business hours) for a number of years and I am glad to offer this option. I hope people will take advantage of this."

Curry said she also receives numerous requests from residents to use debit or credit cards and will be looking into that possibility.

She will also be updating the town clerk portion of the website. "There is a variety of information available to the public and it can answer many questions. I hope more people will use it as I work to revamp it."

Curry said she hopes people will continue to provide feedback. "I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to introduce themselves and wish me success," she said. She added that even though she is running unopposed she would appreciate voters coming to the polls and casting their vote for her. "Your support is appreciated."

Elections will take place November 7 from noon to 9 p.m.

November 5, 2006