Passing the torch — After six terms in office, County Clerk, Auditor and Recorder Susan Petersen will not seek re-election

Susan Petersen has worked as Latah County’s clerk, auditor and recorder since 1991. Recently, Petersen decided not to run for a seventh term, making 2014 her final year in office.

“Well, I gave it really careful thought and consideration and tried to consider all the components,” Petersen said. “And, one thing that I’m sure is the same with other people too, but something that people don’t probably think about is that this job takes a lot of time.”

Petersen said her work doesn’t allow for much time at home.

“So, it’s just really a lot of time away from home,” Petersen said. “I have children that don’t live in this area that I’d like to visit. Usually when they come to visit, I don’t even get to visit with them very much, because I have things I have to do.”

Petersen’s position encompasses many duties. As auditor, she acts as the county budget officer. The position requires she work closely with the county treasurer — filing financial reports, acting as a tax administrator and generally accounting for the money the city takes in.

As clerk of district court duties, she is required to attend every term of the district court in the county, collect child support payments and transmit them to the entitled persons, as well as select prospective jurors for jury duty.

As clerk of the Board of Commissioners, Peterson prepares the agenda for and attends the county commissioners’ meetings and provides information and advice. After each meeting, she has to make a formal record of the proceedings to be published on a monthly basis for the public.

As recorder, she is obligated to record, file and index city documents, including deeds, marriage licenses, certificates of sale, mining claims and water rights.

In addition to those duties, Petersen acts as the chief elections officer. Guided by the secretary of state, she is required to instruct and supervise local election officials. She is also in charge of voter registration.

Despite the workload, Petersen said it has been an honor working for the city and her staff.

“Well, you know, it’s always an honor and a privilege to work with the citizens, and try to do the best job you can for them,” Petersen said. “And then also, I mean I’ve just had really good staff. I mean, I’ve been fortunate … they’ve been exemplary staff.”

Petersen said it is time to let someone else take the position.

“I think it’s just time someone take a hand at it,” Petersen said. “Maybe they could see something I haven’t.”

The only known candidate for the position thus far is Henrianne Westberg of Moscow. Potential candidates have until March 14 to file for the election.

“Whoever runs, I wish them the very best,” Petersen said. “I hope that they — I’m sure they’ll be able to do the job and I just wish them all the best.”

Petersen said she did her best to fulfill her responsibilities.

“I’ve done the best I could to try to meet those challenges and fulfill my responsibilities,” Petersen said. “I hope I’ve served well for our people in our county.”

Andrew Jenson can be reached at [email protected]

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