Name: Desarea Valentine
Age: 36
Occupation: Chief deputy clerk and recorder
Party affiliation: Republican
Experience relevant to position sought: My current role working as chief deputy, I am already doing and learning the roles of Cascade County’s clerk and recorder. I have experience working with people from many different backgrounds, organizing community efforts, and advocating for transparency, accountability, and fairness. My work in the community has helped me develop strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills that I believe are important for serving the people of Cascade County.
Campaign website/social media accounts: Facebook, website
Q: Why are you running for clerk and recorder?
A: I am running for Cascade County clerk and recorder because I care deeply about our community and believe the public deserves an office that is transparent, professional, organized, and accessible to everyone. I want to bring strong communication, accountability, and a people-first approach to the position while ensuring every resident feels heard and respected.
Q: What do you believe is the role of the county clerk and recorder?
A: The county clerk and recorder plays a vital role in maintaining public trust. The office is responsible for overseeing accurate record keeping, administering fair and secure elections, managing important public documents, and providing efficient service to the community. I believe the role is about integrity, transparency, organization, and serving the public with professionalism and fairness.
(Editor’s note: County Commissioners voted in 2023 to remove election duties from the clerk and recorder’s office)
Q: What do you believe are the top three challenges facing Cascade County?
A: One of the biggest challenges is rebuilding trust and confidence between government and the public. Another challenge is ensuring county services remain efficient and accessible while managing budgets responsibly. Lastly, I believe supporting safe, healthy communities through collaboration and community involvement is extremely important for the future of Cascade County.
Q: If elected, what would be your initial priorities and how would you accomplish those goals?
A: My first priorities would be improving communication with the public, reviewing office procedures for efficiency, and supporting a positive and professional workplace culture. I would accomplish these goals by listening to staff and community members, increasing transparency, utilizing technology effectively, and creating clear processes that help the office run smoothly and efficiently.
Q: If elected, what do you believe you bring to the role of clerk and recorder?
A: I bring dedication, compassion, strong communication skills, and a genuine desire to serve the community. I am approachable, hardworking, and committed to treating everyone fairly and respectfully. I also bring a fresh perspective and the willingness to listen, learn, and work collaboratively to improve the office for both employees and the public.
Q: How would you conduct public outreach on controversial matters before the county, or to promote a general understanding of the county’s public process related to the clerk and recorder?
A: I believe communication and transparency are key. I would use community meetings, social media, public forums, and educational materials to help residents better understand the role of the office and important county processes. I would encourage respectful dialogue, provide factual information, and make sure the public has opportunities to ask questions and stay informed.
Q: How would you manage the many tasks of the clerk and recorder’s office?
A: I would focus on organization, teamwork, accountability, and communication. I believe effective leadership means building a strong team environment where employees feel supported and expectations are clear. I would prioritize efficiency, proper training, and time management to ensure the office continues to operate smoothly and effectively.
Q: How would you approach the budget process within your office to ensure the county is making the best use of taxpayer dollars?
A: I would approach the budget responsibly and transparently by carefully reviewing expenses, identifying areas for efficiency, and prioritizing services that directly benefit the public. I believe taxpayer dollars should be used wisely, and I would work to ensure the office remains fiscally responsible while still providing quality service.
Q: What do you envision your working relationship with county staff would look like?
A: I believe in respectful, professional, and collaborative working relationships. I want staff to feel valued, heard, and supported while maintaining accountability and high standards. I believe a positive workplace culture leads to better service for the public and stronger teamwork within the office.
Q: Any additional comments on your plans if elected (but please be concise)?
A: If elected, I will work hard every day to serve the people of Cascade County with honesty, transparency, and professionalism. My goal is to help create an office that the community can trust and employees can be proud to work in.
