Long-time Barton County Register of Deeds Pam Wornkey is retiring as of Sept. 1, and the process to select her replacement is underway. This will get started at 7 p.m. Thursday when the Barton County Republican Precinct Committee members meet for a convention at the Best Western Angus Inn Poolside Room, as she served as a Republican.

As for who takes office next, that is ultimately up to Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly. Wornkey has sent a letter to county officials and to Barton County Republican Committee Chairman Dick Friedeman.

Friedeman had to, within 21 days, call a convention of all Barton County Republican Precinct Committee members. These members will elect a successor to fill the opening from those putting their hats in the ring.

According to District 2 Commissioner Barb Esfeld, there are at least three candidates who have applied, all with experience in the Register of Deeds Office. They include Susan Williams, a one-time deputy register, Julie Peterson, a one-time clerk in the office, and Glenna French, the current deputy.

This is a countywide convention, and will include all committee members. There are currently about 58 precinct committee members with one third being a quorum for such a convention, Friedeman said.  

The name of the person elected will be submitted to Kelly who has seven days to finalize the appointment. If no action is taken, the candidate automatically assumes the post.

The Register of Deeds Office is the place people come to record documents, research records and get their passport. Governed by state statute, the primary function of the office is the recording of real estate related documents, deeds, mortgages, assignments of mortgages or other interests in real estate, easements, or other documents involving real estate.