Region IX Newsletter | 2024 Issue 2

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IIMC Annual Conference Returning to Region IX!

We are thrilled to announce that the IIMC Board of Directors recently awarded the 2028 IIMC Annual Conference to Bellevue, Washington! This is the first annual conference awarded to Region IX since 2012, when Portland, Oregon hosted. We are incredibly excited for the WMCA and Region IX as a whole! Bellevue is the third-largest City in the Seattle metropolitan area and the fifth-largest City in the State. With a population of just over 151,000, Bellevue is home to some of the world’s largest technology companies. Amazon was also founded in Bellevue by Jeff Bezos. Bellevue routinely shows up near the top of various lists for the best places to live in the country. While business booms downtown, much of Bellevue retains a small-town feel, with thriving, woodsy neighborhoods and a vast network of trails. With nearly 100 parks, Bellevue is knowns as “a city in a park”.

Now that the conference has been awarded, the work by the Host Committee and IIMC will soon begin. We can’t wait to see you all in Bellevue in 2028!

LUNCH TIME WITH REGION IX

VIRTUAL EVENT!

Region IX Directors Jamie Newman and Marc Donohue are excited to host the upcoming Lunch Time with Region IX virtual event on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m. Alaska Time / 12:00 p.m. PT!

You can register for the event by clicking here. During this event, we’ll be providing updates on everything related to IIMC and answering any questions that you might have.

We look forward to seeing you there!

A Message From Your Region IX Director

GREETINGS MEMBERS OF REGION IX!

Happy New Year! I can’t believe the holidays are already over. I hope everyone had a chance to disconnect from work and enjoy your family and friends. A New Year always means the chance for new beginnings, whether that be professionally and/or personally. Wishing everyone great success as we turn the page to 2025! Now let’s dive into some updates:

OAMR CONFERENCE

It’s been an adventurous first six months as Region IX Director. In September, I attended the annual conference of the Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders in Pendelton, Oregon. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with old friends and make new connections. The City of Pendleton is an awesome town with an amazing history dating back to the 1800s and is home to the Pendleton Woolen Mills and the annual Pendleton Round Up event.

Congratulations to former OAMR President Nanci Sandoval on a successful conference and a successful year as President! Also, a huge congratulations to my friend Karin Johnson for being named 2024 Recorder of the Year!

I had the privilege of getting to travel with Karin when I was President of CCAC and she was President of OAMR. She’s a wonderful person and very deserving to be recognized!

Looking forward to travelling with new OAMR President Kayla Duddy and watching her implement her vision over the next year.

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IIMC MID-YEAR MEETING

In November, I attended IIMC’s annual mid-year meeting in St. Louis, Missouri. It was a two-day meeting that consisted of board development and a board meeting where several important topics were discussed. You can find the rundown of the board meeting in this newsletter.

While in St. Louis, we got to explore the sites and sounds of the City in anticipation of the IIMC Annual Conference in May. The Hyatt Regency hotel is conveniently located right next to the St. Louis Arch and National Park! There are also a lot of great restaurants and entertainment close by to enjoy. The conference hotel is expected to book up quickly so make your reservations today!

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AAMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE

In December, I got the chance to travel once again to Anchorage, Alaska for the Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks Annual Conference. Although cold by Southern California standards, the mid-30 temperatures were considered “warm” by the locals!

This year’s conference theme was “You’ve Got to Nourish to Flourish”. Congratulations to former President April Trickey on her successful year and conference! I am excited to work with incoming AAMC President Dani Snider over the next year and watching her implement her vision for the association.

Also, congratulations to Kim Lane for being sworn in as 1st Vice President and being awarded 2024 Clerk of the Year!

LUNCH TIME WITH REGION IX

Don’t forget to join us for our virtual Lunch Time with Region IX event on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Alaska Time / 12:00 p.m. PT! Jamie and I will be providing updates on everything related to IIMC and answering any questions that you might have. To register for the zoom, click here.

Region IX Merch for the IIMC Annual Conference is now available at the Region IX merch store! Don’t forget that a percentage of every sale gets donated to the Region IX endowment with the IIMC Foundation which gets allocated to education scholarships exclusively for Region IX members.

You can access the Region IX store by clicking here. Buy some merch today and represent Region IX in St. Louis!

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any comments, questions, or concerns at mdonohue@eastvaleca.gov or 951-703-4421.

Best,

City of Eastvale, CA

IIMC Board of Directors Meeting Recap

Hello Region IX Members,

Marc and I were excited to attend the mid-year Board meeting in St. Louis from November 15-16, held at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch. The event began with a Professional Development Session titled “ReNew Your Success: Embrace the Power of Renewal,” followed by the Board meeting.

BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

The IIMC Board of Directors convened on November 16, 2024, under the leadership of President Lisa Garcia, MMC. Below are the key discussions, actions, and updates from the meeting:

CALL TO ORDER

President Lisa Garcia called the meeting to order at 8:17 AM. The full Board was present, with notable attendees including the IIMC Executive Director Chris Shalby and staff members such as Finance Specialist Shannon Kane and Director of Professional Development Dr. Beatrice Rodriguez.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The agenda was amended to move several items to future meetings for clarification, including agenda items 7b, 7c, and 7d, which will be referred to Regions X and XI for review. The amended agenda was unanimously approved.

CONSENT AGENDA

The minutes from previous meetings were approved as follows:

• May 18, 2024 – Board Meeting (Calgary, AB)

• May 22, 2024 – Board Meeting (Calgary, AB)

• May 22, 2024 – Annual Business Meeting (Calgary, AB)

• July 25, 2024 – Virtual Board Meeting

FOUNDATION REPORT

Foundation President Buster Brown provided a verbal update on ongoing fundraising efforts, with additional details shared by Foundation member Shari Moore on current opportunities for support.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR UPDATE

Chris Shalby presented several important updates:

• Honorary Membership: Honorary membership status for a former IIMC President was discussed, with updates to be provided closer to the 2025 Conference.

• Registered Agent: The Board approved the appointment of Sandie Maahs from Village of Davis Junction, IL, as the new registered agent for IIMC, effective May 2025.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Various committee reports were presented, including updates from the Conference, Education & Professional Development, and Membership/Mentoring Committees. No immediate action was required on these reports.

ELECTION COMMITTEE

The Election Committee presented several recommendations, which were all adopted by the Board:

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1. 1Adoption of amendments to Election Policy 2.20.

2. Conducting a member survey regarding voting preferences prior to the use of an online voting platform.

3. Implementation of a “Countdown to Vote” campaign, including social media blasts.

4. Holding a Candidate Forum after the nomination deadline.

5. Approval of a standard elections complaint process.

6. A proposal to create a new Standing Committee on Ethical Standards was discussed but ultimately failed after an amendment.

BUDGET AND PLANNING COMMITTEE

The Budget Committee presented the following recommendations, all of which were approved:

• Elections Committee Funding: Funding was not approved but the request will be revisited in the future.

• Futures Committee Meeting: $13,500 for the initial in-person meeting.

• 2025 Conference Registration Fee: Increase by $25.

• 2025 Membership Dues: Increase by $10.

• Staff Salary Increase: 5% increase for staff salaries (not including the ED).

Financial Update

Chris Shalby presented the 2024 financial management notes. The Board also approved a $13,000 payment for the independent investigation into the 2024 Annual Conference held in Calgary, AB.

STAFF REPORTS

The Board received updates from various staff members, including:

• Communications Report by Karen Lee

• Membership Report by Janis Daudt and Tammy Storrie

• Region XI Update by Chris Shalby

All staff reports were accepted with no action required.

2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE –ST. LOUIS, MO

ED Shalby shared exciting details about the upcoming 2025 conference, including the theme “Rockin and Rollin on the River.” A fun rockstar themed contest will offer free registration, and several attractions are within walking distance of the venue. The event will also be cashless, and attendees will be encouraged to stay informed through announcements.

2028 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SITE SELECTION

The Board reviewed proposals for the 2028 Annual Conference and selected Bellevue, WA, as the host city for the event. Congratulations, Region IX and especially the Washington Municipal Clerks Association!

In closing, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Region IX for the opportunity to serve as your Region IX Director. My term will conclude in May 2025, and it has truly been an honor and privilege to represent Region IX on the IIMC Board. Thank you for your trust and support!

I am pleased to share that Shawn Campbell, former President of the Washington Municipal Clerks Association, will be assuming my seat on the Board. I have full confidence that she, along with Marc, will continue to represent Region IX with dedication and commitment.

IIMC President-Elect’s Holiday Message

DAWN ABRAHAMSON, MMC, IIMC PRESIDENT-ELECT

It’s hard to believe we are closing another year. 2024 has been a very busy but productive year for the IIMC Board and Association. Region IX is fortunate to have such dedicated representation on the Board from current Directors Marc Donohue and Jamie Newman. Their commitment to our profession and wealth of knowledge is carried out as they represent you. They carefully and respectfully take all IIMC region IX members into consideration when proposals and decisions come before the Board.

A FEW VERY IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS TO SHARE WITH YOU AS YOU START TO PLAN A NEW YEAR!

As an IIMC member, get involved by volunteering to serve on a committee!

Committee Work Is Accomplished Virtually

IIMC members who serve on an IIMC Committee will receive one point per year toward CMC Experience or two points per year toward MMC Professional Contributions. IIMC needs Committee members who are prepared to work. Committees meet virtually to review the previous year’s accomplishments and discuss strategies and objectives for the upcoming year. The majority of Committee work is done throughout the year through virtual meetings and E-mail. IIMC’s growth is attributable to you -- the members.

The findings of a Committee have a direct impact of the decisions made by the Board of Directors. The energy you put into your work on the Committee has a direct influence on the direction your Organization takes. Beginning with the 2022 term, IIMC’s Board of Directors have approved assigning each Committee Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals and objectives to further IIMC’s mission of openness and inclusivity.

Your contributions and your participation on the Committee will determine its success or failure. If you participate, get involved and encourage others on the Committee to do so that the Committee will be successful. Enthusiasm is contagious.

Put your input and insight to good use by volunteering for Committee work. You can learn more and complete an application here:

Applications are due to IIMC Headquarters by January 15, 2025.

If you are already on a committee and wish to remain on the same committee or move to another committee, you must submit a new application by the deadline.

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Join the Movement – Support Municipal Clerks Like Me!

Championing the important work of municipal clerks through a monthly donation to the IIMC Foundation. As a Recurring Giver, I invite YOU to be a part of this incredible impact! Whether it is a $10, $25 or an even more generous contribution, every recurring or one-time gift makes a difference. You can choose where your donation goes, from the Unrestricted Fund – used for the greatest needs – to one of the many specific Restricted Funds that align with your passion.

SIGN UP TODAY AND RECEIVE A TOKEN OF THE FOUNDATION’S GRATITUDE!

Like me, you’ll proudly wear a commemorative Recurring Giver bracelet as a symbol of your commitment to strengthening our community. Your monthly support fuels scholarships, educational programs, and resources for clerks worldwide. Together, we can achieve even more.

Sign up now and make your impact!

Let’s grow this movement, one gift at a time.

Meet Me In St. Louis – your gateway to education!

The 79th IIMC Annual IIMC Conference is one you will not want to miss! The host committee is working hard to make this an unforgettable conference.

May 18-21, 2025

CONFERENCE LINKS

Conference Website

What’s included

Housing, Planning and Logistics

Preliminary Program Packet

IIMC Conference Policies

IIMC Conference Registration Cancellation Policy

IIMC continually updates conference pages.

To view Track session titles and brief descriptions, use the pull-down menu below to “Select programs” by Track and scroll down to the list of Tracks below. IIMC recommends that you determine a first and second choice track before proceeding to registration selections. Please choose your track carefully! You will not be able to change your track after registration.

Women’s Recurring Giving Bracelet
Men’s Recurring Giving Bracelet SIGN UP HERE

New Online Professional Development Program: 2025

Courses Now Available

The purpose of the online professional development program is to enrich our learning community by creating a learning platform to develop skills appropriate to the workplace for municipal clerks that supports a diversity of thoughts, perspectives, experiences, and honors identities (including race, gender, class, sexuality, religion, ability, etc.). We are especially committed to increasing the representation of those municipal clerks who might not otherwise participate in professional development opportunities.

I encourage you to take advantage of these new and exciting courses brought to you via Zoom Webinar. I look forward to seeing you there!

As we close 2024, Every and I want to wish you peace and prosperity this holiday season! This festive holiday season feels like the right time to share warmest thanks for the opportunity to be a part of the IIMC family. Your guidance and ongoing support are much appreciated. Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season!

LEARN MORE

Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks

It is with much anticipation for the year to come that I send a HUGE hello and New Year greetings from the largest state in the union! The Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks (AAMC) held its annual academy and conference the week of December 8, with former President April Trickey at the helm, and it was without a doubt one of the most fun, engaging, and educationally relevant conferences I have ever attended. On Sunday, December 8, there was an all-day academy session on “Replenishing your Passion – Your Personal CEO” presented by Patrick Ibarra. The session focused on the 12 ways to unleash your new CEO: self, mind, body, soul, spouse/partner, children, family, career, community, environment, technology, and the human race. Monday and Tuesday included sessions on how everyone “nourished to flourish” in 2024 (President Trickey’s theme), leading via body language, the Open Meetings Act, public records requests, an elections debrief/lessons learned, A.I. innovations, clerk involvement in the AAMC and IIMC, and hot topic roundtable discussions based on feedback from education surveys from 2023. One of the highlights was the President’s reception Sunday evening, where we were challenged in a riveting (and very lively) game of trivia over some cocktails and tasty hors d’oeuvres! The conference wrapped up with a well-organized and brimming-with-fun banquet Tuesday evening where our fundraising folks, with the help of “Derk the DJ Clerk,” raised an incredible

amount of money for Alaska clerk education. Way to go Colt Chase and team! The prestigious Clerk of the Year award was bestowed upon Kim Lane with the City and Borough of Wrangell who could not have deserved it more. And it just so happens that Kim, who had been serving as the AAMC Communications Director, also stepped up to fill the 1st Vice President vacancy and was sworn into that office later in the evening. I am incredibly lucky to have such a great group of clerks on my team during the coming year. Finally, on Wednesday, our very own Athenian Fellow Beth McEwen from the City and Borough of Juneau facilitated the Athenian Dialogue on Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration. While I was not able to attend Wednesday’s session, I have heard that it was engaging, thought-provoking, and inspiring. Thanks to all who made the 2024 AAMC academy and conference a success!

My theme for 2025 is “Clerk to Become the Greatest You” which speaks to the great potential each of us holds within ourselves. The image is a fun illustration of the theme inspired by my love for elephants. Elephants, like clerks, are incredibly strong and have thick skin. They have a strong sense of community and are social creatures. They rely on others with more experience to teach and guide them. We all bring different skill sets, backgrounds, education, and experiences to the proverbial watering hole, but each of us has the potential to become the greatest version of ourselves.

I look forward to my journey as the 2025 AAMC President, and I am excited to meet the many clerks across Region IX who work every day towards becoming the greatest version of themselves. Thank you to the Region IX Directors and Presidents who have already made me feel welcome. I hope to see you all in Blaine, WA in March!

SUPERCLERK Update!

Region IX Superclerks,

Happy December! I hope your holiday season is filled with joy and wonder, traditions and celebrations, and Superclerk cheer!! From my traditions to you and yours, sharing a wee bit of Irish Holiday Spirit:

May you be blessed with the spirit of the season, which is peace, The gladness of the season, which is hope, And the heart of the season, which is love.

Please note a few updates from WMCA and feel free to reach out if I may be of service.

WMCA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EC) ACTIVITIES

Our WMCA Executive Committee is comprised of twelve amazing clerks from across Washington State, representing over four hundred members, and service to WMCA is all volunteer based. The 20242025 Executive Committee has been hard at work this year, meeting monthly, with robust goals for our operating year (March to March). Highlights include:

• Approving a 2024-2025 Work Plan, including aspirational and operational goals for the year, committee assignments, and foundational projects such as developing a WMCA mission, vision, and values, as well as member engagement, ethics, and an onboarding program for new Executive Committee members.

• Working on our “legacy” documents, those items that will capture our current operations, and support the growth and future of WMCA.

• Selection of Past President Shawn Campbell, City of Auburn, as the Washington Representative for the next IIMC Region IX Director position (Term May 2025 – May 2028).

The Executive Committee is supported by twelve WMCA Committees which assist with association operations, such as conference planning, education, fundraising, membership, and scholarship functions. Quite simply, the Committees put WMCA goals into action, and are the beating heart of our association. I am so proud of our WMCA Executive Committee team and Committee chairs and members. I am honored to serve alongside these wonderful WMCA Superclerks.

UPCOMING WMCA EVENTS

2025 WMCA Annual Conference and Spring Advanced Education Sessions

The WMCA Committees have been hard at work these past many months planning for our 2025 Annual Conference, and registration is now open!

2025 WMCA

ANNUAL CONFERENCE & SPRING EDUCATION

Semiahmoo Resort | Blaine, WA

Spring Academy or Athenian Dialogue: Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Conference:

Wednesday, March 19 through Friday, March 21, 2025

For those of you interested, please see the Call to Conference and Conference Schedule for more details on advanced education classes offered on Tuesday, including an Athenian Dialogue lead by WMCA Executive Committee member Kathy Linnemeyer, and Conference education planned for the week. I am very excited for our keynote speakers

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(both opening and closing), as well as the many classes that will be offered. A few highlights:

• Academy: “Bridging the Gap: Strategies for Influence and Inclusion,” with Rex Osborn

• Athenian Dialogue: “Atlas of the Heart” by Brene Brown; facilitator Kathy Linnemeyer

• Opening: “Super Clerks: Path of a Hero,” Karin Peabody, Dynamic Teaming

• Sessions on records management and disclosure, supervision, budgeting, DEI, public hearings, contracts, administrative appeals, ADA, certifications, and more!

• Using Your Superpowers to Move Forward in Your Career: Former Clerk Panel - An opportunity to engage with former clerks who have found new pathways in public service.

• Closing: “Superpower to Success: How to Unlock Your Leadership Potential,” Adam Mendler

There will be Superclerk inspired sessions and networking events; including our welcoming reception on Tuesday evening, a superhero night on Wednesday, and our fabulous banquet on Thursday. I hope you will consider joining us this year for this amazing event!!

JUST ANNOUNCED: 2028 IIMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE –COMING TO BELLEVUE, WA!!!

Every fall, the IIMC Board of Directors considers locations for the upcoming annual conference, on a four year look ahead schedule… after a review process including a site visit this summer, WMCA is thrilled to share that Bellevue, Washington has

been selected as the site of the 2028 IIMC Annual Conference! Congratulations to Host ClerkCharmaine Arredondo, City Clerk, City of Bellevue, and the Visit Bellevue team. The conference will be held at the Bellevue Hyatt Regency the week of May 21 through 24, 2028.

This is the first time the IIMC Annual Conference has been in Region IX since the 2012 Conference in Portland, Oregon, and Washington appreciates the support of our clerk colleagues across the region. We are excited to host you… remember to mark your calendars for this wonderful opportunity to attend the conference in our very own and very beautiful PNW backyard in May 2028!

If any of the topics above have piqued your interest, please check out our WMCA webpage to learn more about our Washington Clerks Wishing you a most beautiful holiday season!

Yours in Service,

Hello from the Beautiful State of Oregon

Hi, My name is Kayla Duddy, Deputy City Recorder for the City of Redmond, and just a few short months ago I was sworn in as the 2024-2025 Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) President. I am excited and honored to lead this amazing organization and work alongside our exceptional Executive Board to serve our members and advance the field of municipal recorders and professionals in Oregon.

MEET OAMRS 2024-2025 EXECUTIVE BOARD & REGION DIRECTORS

Vice President

Scott Stauffer, CMC, City of Milwaukie

Secretary

Christie Teets, CMC, City of Molalla

Treasurer

Alex McHaddad, City of Elgin

Immediate Past President

Nanci Sandoval, CMC, City of Umatilla

Region I Director

Lisa Scholl, MMC, City of St. Helens

Region II Director

Nicole Madigan, City of Milwaukie

Region III Director

Gloria Tucker, CMC, Port of Newport

Region IV Director

Winnie Shepard, CMC, City of Medford

Region V Director

Vacant

Region VI Director

Jen Gray, City of Hood River

Region VII Director

Karen Howton, CMC, City of Island City

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A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT OUR STATE

For those who do not know much about Oregon, here are a few fun facts. Our states history has a great mixture of indigenous cultures, European exploration, and American westward expansion. For thousands of years, diverse indigenous tribes, including the Chinook, Nez Perce, and Klamath, thrived on the land, developing societies and deep spiritual connections. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers glimpsed the Oregon coast. Later, French, British and American fur traders ventured into the region. The early 19th century saw the Lewis and Clark Expedition explore the Oregon Country, opening the region to further settlement. In the Mid19th century, thousands of pioneers embarked on the Oregon Trail, seeking new opportunities in the fertile Willamette Valley. The Oregon Treaty of 1846 resolved a boundary dispute with Great Britian, and in 1859, Oregon became the 33rd state of the Union.

We invite you to discover Oregon’s stunning natural beauty, from the rugged coast to the majestic mountains and High Desert. Experience Portland’s vibrant culture, the state’s commitment to sustainability, and the friendly laid-back lifestyle. Hike or camp in the Cascade Mountains, surf or build sandcastles on the Oregon Coast, and explore the plains of Eastern Oregon and the Columbia River Gorge’s waterfalls. Our State has something to offer everyone!

WHAT’S OAMR DOING? BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE

OAMR is embarking on the third year of our Strategic Plan, and we are committed to helping our members and organization thrive. OAMR’s Committees have started to meet to plan for the year to come, and the Executive Board and Committee Chairs will gather on January 13, 2025, to redefine our strategies and set goals. We will review and update job descriptions, explore opportunities to create valuable resources for new and incoming board members, prioritize member engagement and professional development, advocate for interests of municipal recorders and professionals, and strengthen partnerships with other professional organizations.

Our Events and Fundraising Committee is hard at work planning our 2025 Mid-Year Conference, March 13th-14th, 2025, and 2025 Annual Academy and Conference, September 23rd-26, in Eugene at the Valley River Inn. Registration for our Mid-Year Conference will be open the end of December on our website, www.oamr.org.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW OAMR MEMBERS

OAMR welcomed 12 new members this fall, and we thrilled to have them apart of the team.

• Briana Parra, City of Halsey

• Chelsea Hollis, City of Tillamook

• Madeline Moya, City of Portland

• Rhonda Bryan, City of Reedsport

• Amanda Chavez, City of Lake Side

• Kenzie Nagel, City of Dundee

• Crystal Weber, City of Philomath

• Amy Johnson, City of Turner

• Beau Hart, City of Sutherlin

• Sarah Hartenstein, City of Antelope

• Myra Russell, City of Independence

• Elisha Shulda, City of Clatskanie

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OAMR’S NEWEST CMC & MMC RECIPIENTS

Between the months of September and December, we have had four members received their CMC and two members receive their MMC. A big congratulations goes out to the following members for their hard work and dedication:

• Rachael Gangelhoff, CMC, City of Gresham – Received 10/9/2024

• Stacey Stockhoff, CMC, City of La Grande – Received 10/24/2024

• June Hinojosa, CMC, City of Bandon – Received 10/30/2024

• Mindy Robert, CMC, City of Cottage Grove – Received 12/11/2024

• Kayla Duddy, MMC, City of Redmond – Received 10/30/2024

• Heather Pierson, MMC, City of Woodburn – Received 11/6/2024

SAVE THE DATE | OAMR’S 2025 ANNUAL ACADEMY & CONFERENCE

Join us for OAMR’s 2025 Annual Academy & Conference, themed “Defying Gravity”. This theme symbolizes our commitment to overcoming challenges, innovating, and reaching new heights in our profession. The conference will take place from September 23-26, 2025, in Eugene, home of the University of Oregon Ducks! This event will feature inspiring keynote speakers, informative workshops, and networking opportunities. We invite you to learn more about OAMR and the incredible work we do for municipal professionals across Oregon.

ALASKA ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPAL CLERKS ANNUAL CONFERENCE

I recently had the pleasure of attending the Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks Annual Conference December 8-11 in the stunning Anchorage Alaska. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, learn from the experienced Alaska Clerks, and share best practices. I am excited to bring new ideas and perspectives to OAMR.

As we look forward to the new year, I am filled with excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead for OAMR. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous new year.

Warm Regards, Kayla M. Duddy, MMC, President Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders

Greetings from CCAC!

Cheers to 2025, Region IX! I hope you all enjoyed the holiday season and festivities with friends and loved ones. The past few months have flown by for me with all the conference travel and elections / reorganization work. Having a few weeks off to enjoy the holidays and relax with my family was perfect!

During the last week of September, I had the pleasure of representing CCAC at OAMR’s Annual Conference in Pendleton, Oregon. It was a great week packed with wonderful education, networking, and comradery. Oregon clerks are a fabulous group! It’s always a treat to meet clerks from other areas and see how other associations put on their conferences. There are usually some ideas to take back to the CCAC Conference Committee as well! Congratulations to Nanci Sandoval on her year as President of OAMR, and a big congrats to Kayla Duddy on being sworn in as President for the next year!

In December, I also had the privilege of attending AAMC’s Annual Conference in Anchorage. It was my first time to Alaska, and I have to say, I was so impressed by the Alaska clerks! What an awesome group of dedicated people. I loved watching April finish her Presidency and see the joy on her face during the week. Congrats to Dani Snider who was sworn in as President, and to Kim Lane who won Clerk of the Year and was sworn in as 1st VP.

I have about 4.5 months left of my presidency and one more out-of-state conference (WMCA in March), and I have to say, the best part about all of this are the friendships forged. If any of you have ever considered running for a leadership position, please do. It’s a lot of work and a lot of responsibility, but the rewards are worth it. I have met some truly great people along this journey that I’ll hold dear for a lifetime.

I know it can seem intimidating and daunting, and if it does, start small. Volunteer on committees, get your feet wet, take on a board position, then when you feel you’re ready, step into leadership!

Here are a few updates from CCAC:

2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Our annual conference will be held April 29-May 2, 2025 in San Jose, California at The Signia by Hilton. The Conference Committee has finalized the slate of education sessions, and I’m really excited about the lineup. This year’s education will feature general sessions in addition to breakout sessions geared toward beginners and intermediate / advanced. There will be breakout sessions on minutes, communication, legislative body services, and a

featured general session will discuss the importance of election integrity. The conference will be worth an estimated 3.5 CMC/MMC points. If you’ve ever wanted to come to one of our conferences, please join us!! It will be a terrific week! You can check out the 2025 Conference webpage here.

CCAC NAME CHANGE!

I announced in the summer issue that we were working on a name change for CCAC to be more inclusive of our membership. Well, we did it! Ballot Measure 24-A passed in November with flying colors, and we are actively working on filing the remaining required legal documentation to officially change our name to – the California Municipal Clerks Association (CMCA)! In December, members voted on our new logo and I am proud to present it to all of you here. Lots more to come on this – we have a whole slew of changes and updates to make now, but it’s happening!

What an exciting opportunity to showcase our fantastic Region and commemorate the launch of our new branding/logo! Get ready to express your pride by ordering your preferred items, including t-shirts, crewnecks, hoodies, notebooks, tote bags, caps, and much more, all available in a variety of vibrant colors.

SHOP NOW

Region IX CMC Certifications

FROM JULY THROUGH NOVEMBER 2024

Diane Cathcart, CMC Deputy Clerk

Estkarlen P. Magdaong, CMC City Clerk

Brandy Warnecke, CMC Deputy Clerk III

Monica Cisneros, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Fallon Martin, CMC City Clerk

Magdalene Tatum, CMC Senior Board Analyst

Annette Rehms, CMC

Executive Assistant

Jamie Young, CMC City Recorder

Arlette Burkhart, CMC Acting City Clerk

Katey Hobbs, CMC Administrative Assistant

Jennifer Joki, CMC City Clerk

Tammy C. Mueller, CMC Public Records Analyst

Hannah Scholl, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Kim Sullivan, CMC

Katherine L. Carr, CMC

Deputy Clerk-Treasurer/Permit Technician

Customer Service and Elections Coordinator

Suzie Abajian, Ph.D., CMC City Clerk

Mahealani Ah Yun, CMC City Clerk

Araceli Barajas, CMC

Executive Assistant to Board

Christine Cordon, CMC City Manager

Michael Garcia, CMC Assistant Board Secretary

Lesley Munoz, CMC Department Assistant

Lindsey Gann, CMC

City Recorder/Finance Director

Becky Jensen, CMC City Clerk

Anders Sorestad, CMC Deputy Clerk/Treasurer II

Rhonda Bolla, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Debra Fritz, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Jennifer Strawn, CMC Consultant

Lizabeth Vasquez, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Krista Miller, CMC

Recorder/City Manager

City and Borough of Juneau

City of Unalaska

City of Kodiak

City of Livingston

City of Ceres

San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District

Tualatin Valley Water District

City of Lincoln City

City of Fircrest

City of Federal Way

City of Mountlake Terrace

City of Issaquah

City of Auburn

Town of Woodway

City of Valdez

City of Glendale

City of Palo Alto

Omnitrans of San Bernardino County

City of Westminster

Sweetwater Authority

City of San Dimas

City of Bay City

City of Mount Vernon

City of Stevenson

City of Santa Rosa

City of La Verne

Test Record

City of Garden Grove

City of Lakeside

continued on page 22

Rachel Neuenschwander, CMC City Recorder

Caitlin Weaver, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Beverly Ann Rosete, CMC Borough Clerk

Dina Y. Lewis, CMC Assistant City Clerk

Tom Francis McGurk, CMC Associate Member

Sahara Meisenheimer, CMC Clerk of the Board Specialist

Jazmine Miranda, CMC

Assistant City Clerk

Stacy Ready, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Marta Rodriguez, CMC Senior Deputy City Clerk/ Division Manager

Jill Theriot, CMC Administrative Assistant

Adriana Trujillo, CMC City Clerk Technician

Rachael Gangelhoff, CMC City Recorder

June Hinojosa, CMC City Recorder

Beverly Ann Rosete, CMC Borough Clerk

Andrea Alexander, CMC City Clerk

Candace Clark, CMC Assistant City Clerk

PeggyAnne Nimb, CMC Deputy City Clerk

Lisa Sokolik, CMC City Clerk

City of Central Point

City of Lake Stevens

Aleutians East Borough

City of Fremont

Orange County Transportation Authority

City of South San Francisco

City of La Mesa

City of Moreno Valley

City of Lake Elsinore

City of San Jacinto

City of Gresham

City of Bandon

Aleutians East Borough

City of Lancaster

City of Needles

City of Bainbridge Island

City of Stanwood

Region IX MMC Certifications

FROM JULY THROUGH NOVEMBER 2024

Tawnia Pett, MMC Executive Assistant/ Clerk of the Board

Debra Barham, MMC City Clerk

City of Garden Grove

City of Pasco

Victoria A. Hahn, MMC Governance Manager F & A Federal Credit Union

Faviola Medina, MMC City Clerk Services Manager

Angela Robles, MMC Clerk of the Board

Kayla Duddy, MMC Deputy City Recorder

Jozi Plut, MMC City Clerk

Heather M. Pierson, MMC City Recorder

Allison M. Morrison, MMC Clerk of the Board

City of Carlsbad

Chino Valley Fire District

City of Redmond

City of Belmont

City of Woodburn

Snohomish County Public Utility District #1

New Region IX Members

FROM JULY THROUGH NOVEMBER 2024

Kaitlin Allen City Clerk/Administrative Services Manager

Monica King City Clerk/Treasurer

Jennifer M. Krembs Town Clerk

Russell Pethel Administrator/Clerk

Sherrie Rodriguez, CMC Deputy Clerk

Kristine Kennedy Borough Clerk

Regina Blankenhorn Executive Coordinator

Claire Cooper, CMC Retired City Clerk

Brooke Dudra Deputy Town Clerk

Roxana Flores Deputy City Clerk

Ana B. Gonzalez, MMC Retired City Clerk

Joe Guerrero Administrative Officer

Victoria A. Hahn, MMC Governance Manager

Rhiannon Lewis-Stephenson Deputy City Clerk

Allison Markey Senior Administrative Assistant

Jaclyn Miramontes Manager of Administration

Monica Molina-Connolly Executive Assistant

Emily Owen Administrative Assistant

Becca Parrish Utility Billing Clerk

Cindy Hicks Deputy Clerk

Alicia Stevens Records Management Coordinator

Tamara Valdez Deputy Clerk/Executive Assistant

Claudia Garcia Records Manager

Araceli Sandoval Assistant Clerk

T'Ana Allen Deputy City Clerk

Yajaira Maldonado Deputy Clerk of the Board

Yvette Rodriguez Deputy City Clerk II

City of Ephrata

City of Nooksack

Town of Friday Harbor

King County Flood Control District

City of Royal City

Borough of Haines

City of Tustin

From the City of Petaluma

Town of Yucca Valley

City of Temple City

From the City of Woodland

City of Long Beach

F & A Federal Credit Union

City of Arcata

City of Palmdale

San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission

City of Big Bear Lake

Contra Costa Transportation Authority

Town of Yachats

City of Omak

City of Camas

City of Moses Lake

City of Chula Vista

City of Ukiah

City of Culver City

Inaldn Valley Development Agency

City of Jurupa Valley

continued on page 24

Christina Aguilar Administrative Assistant

Erika De La Cruz City Clerk

Jessica Chen Deputy City Clerk

Pam McGill Administrative Assistant

Erika Castellano Sr. Administrative Assistant

Blair Hutchison City Clerk Technician

Chantal Eaton Deputy City Clerk

Valerie Acevedo Records Clerk Technician

Amy Wilson Deputy City Clerk

Keely Royas Assistant City Clerk

Alissa Kolodzinski City Recorder

Brooklyn Osterhage City Recorder

Phillip Wood-Smith Deputy City Clerk

Jennifer Marshall Deputy City Clerk

Shelli Quantrell Clerk/Treasurer

Nicole Anderson Deputy Borough Clerk

Ashley Appel Deputy City Clerk

Colette Gilmour Deputy City Clerk

Melissa Jacobsen City Manager

Jana V. Lekanoff City Clerk

Corazon F. Rocili City Clerk

Salina Cano Public Works Permit Technician II

Manuel Cruz Nieto Deputy City Clerk

Michelle Guillen Office Specialist

Ryan Haworth Deputy City Clerk

Jennifer Hy-Luk Board Services Officer

Candice Kwok Smith Board Support Officer

Cynthia Lopez Senior Records Specialist

Jennfier Macias Management Analyst

Tom Francis McGurk Associate Member

Guadalupe Montejano

Billing & Collections Supervisor

City of La Habra Heights

City of McFarland

City of Milpitas

City of Mountain View

City of Palm Desert

City of Roseville

City of San Mateo

City of South San Francisco

City of Taft

City of Ventura

City of Ashland

City of Brookings

City of Seattle

City of Tukwila

City of Zillah

Ketchikan Gateway Borough

City of Homer

City of Cordova

City of Homer

City of Adak

City of King Cove

City of Jurupa Valley

City of Huntington Park

City of Colton

City of Dana Point

Inland Empire Utilities Agency

Santa Clara Valley Water District

City of Chula Vista

City of Redlands

City of Dinuba

continued on page 25

Jennifer Perales-Gallardo City Clerk Specialist

Vanessa Uribe Administrative Assistant

Kimberly Herring City Recorder/Executive Assistant

City of Yorba Linda

City of Shafter

City of Dallas

Jennifer Mirabile Ciity Recorder/Human Resources Coordinator City of Veneta

Quinn Glebe Deputy City Clerk

Amy Grace City Clerk/Treasurer

City of Kirkland

City of George

Megan Read Deputy Clerk to the Board of Commissioners Island County

Aimee Rosse Deputy City Clerk

Layla Tromble Deputy Clerk to the Board

Samantha Van Laer Deputy City Clerk

Azure Dominguez Administrative Assistant

Staphany Arriola Management Analyst

Jacquelyn Blancett Deputy Town Clerk

Victoria Castreje Deputy City Clerk

Jenna De Long Deputy Clerk

Stephanie Gross Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk

Oscar Mojica Deputy City Clerk

Ashley Nash Administrative Assistant II

Gisela Peralta Administrative Assistant II

Lea Perez Administrative Assistant

Olivia Rodriguez Management Specialist

Megan K. ScarboroughEckel Clerk of the Board

Sandra Vences Assistant Clerk of the Board

Amber Weaver Acting City Clerk

Marisa Wellng Office Records Specialist

Beau Hart City Recorder

Crystal Weber City Recorder

Vicki Lundgren

Accounting/Administrative Assistant

City of Bothell

Island County

City of Longview

City of Kodiak

City of Pacific Grove

Town of Paradise

City of Eastvale

City of Los Gatos

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

City of La Quinta

City of Suisun

City of Atwater

City of Eastvale

City of La Quinta

Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District

San Diego Community Power-A Joint Power Authoreity

City of Fort Bragg

City of Santa Clara

City of Sutherlin

City of Philomath

City of Edgewood

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