Marie Scott

Marie Scott
Democrat
County Clerk, incumbent

Age: 61

City of residence: In Bonner County near Clark Fork

Years of residence in Bonner County and Idaho: 40 years in Idaho and 30 years in Bonner County.

Marital status/family: John and I have been married for 41 years. Together we’ve raised our two sons who attended Hope Elementary and Clark Fork Jr. Sr. High School.

Education:

• University of Idaho (Ex ‘72)
• Idaho State University (Ex ‘80)

Recent or pertinent employment history: 

• Clerk of the District Court, Auditor and Recorder for Bonner County
• Supervisor in the Comptroller’s Office at the University of Idaho
• Comptroller’s Office at Idaho State University

Relevant professional affiliations:

• Chairman of the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
• President of the Idaho Association of County Recorders and Clerks
• Member of the Board of Directors for the Idaho Association of Counties
• District 1 Chairman of the Idaho Association of Counties

Relevant experience: 

• 20 years as the Clerk of the District Court
• A strong background in Fund Accounting – the method used by the County
• Worked to develop the first Recorder’s Manual for the State of Idaho
• Chief Elections Officer for Bonner County

Why are you running for public office?

I enjoy helping people. That is what 90% of the Clerk’s job is. No matter what area of my office people visit, they are there because they need our help. It is very satisfying to be able to provide that assistance. Prior to each election cycle I ask myself if I am still making a positive difference. As long as I can truthfully answer myself with a “Yes!” I will continue to seek re-election to this position.

If you are elected, how much time will you spend each week in the office?

The Clerk is on-duty 24/7. The duties and responsibilities don’t end just because the hour turned to 5 or the day became Saturday. You have to be prepared to roll up your sleeves and dig in at a moment’s notice.

Describe the top three to five issues you believe are most important, why you consider them most important, and your position on these issues.

• Clerk of the District Court. Easily the busiest part of my responsibilities! With over 20,000 court cases filed annually, I and my deputies work in conjunction with the District Judge and three Magistrates to provide many varied services to you. Some of these include a court assistance officer; drug court; pre-trial conferences; mediation; youth court – all of which are designed to make the courts more ‘user friendly’ and efficient making the best use of your tax dollars.
• County Auditor. A strong accounting background is necessary to effectively administer the $55 million county budget. I have such a background. The financial condition of the county has improved from weak to strong. We no longer use your tax dollars to pay interest on borrowed money to meet our first quarter obligations!
• County Recorder. I led the development of the first statewide training program and procedural manual for county recorders. The program is still in place with the training conducted by the State Attorney General’s Office. We have upgraded our operations and are now digitizing our system by scanning our documents.
• Chief Elections Officer. No dimpled or pregnant chads here! We scan your ballot electronically to obtain fast and accurate results! We have ballot marking devices in the polling places to better meet the needs of sight and hearing impaired persons. These machines were paid for with grant monies and not your tax dollars. 
• Clerk to Board of Commissioners. With 18 newly elected commissioners since 1986, the Commission policies, procedures and direction constantly change. I know the corporate history to capably assist them achieve their goals while working diligently to protect your tax dollars.
• Resource for Taxing Districts. Your County Clerk is the primary contact for the 42 taxing districts in Bonner County. I provide help, advice, guidance, and direction in matters relating to budget preparation, levy limitations, and in election conduct and administration.
• Indigent & Charity Operations. Through this reimbursement program we work with other agencies and area medical providers to enable our residents to obtain medical services they may otherwise not be able to pay for. 
• Veterans Services. We have a service officer on staff to assist veterans with their claims and in obtaining medical assistance through the VA programs. Our officer is a decorated Vietnam vet who understands the problems you face and is anxious to help you obtain the benefits to which you are entitled.

What differentiates you from other candidates? Why should people vote for you?

From the above, you can see that the County Clerk’s position is the most varied and multi-faceted position in your county government. These duties and responsibilities require knowledge and experience in many different areas. I have that knowledge. I have that experience. When staff is faced with a challenge the elected Clerk better know how to achieve a solution.

The make-up of the Board of County Commissioners is going to change in January when the new Board is seated.  You will need an experienced Clerk to guide them as they learn their way in their new duties. Over the years I have proven to be a strong leader and have a track record of making the tough decisions when necessary.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your elected Clerk since 1991. Your continued faith in my abilities would be truly appreciated. With your support on November 2nd we can continue working together for a better tomorrow.