Denise Ericson Answers Questions on Campaign for Christian County Recorder
The following is an interview with Denise Ericson conducted by the Christian County Sun via email. Denise is currently seeking the office of Recorder of Deeds for Christian County as a Republican. She has several opponents in this race, including Linda Essick, Kelly Blunt Hall, Jim Gray, Sharon Stewart, & Dennis Clinton. You can find interviews for other candidates for county office in Christian County at the August 3 Christian County Election Central Resource.
SUN: Why are you running for Christian County Recorder of Deeds?
Denise Ericson: When this position was reopened, I decided that with my accomplishments and interest in the archives, this would be a great opportunity for me to work in an environment that I am comfortable with. After visiting with those who do business in this office, it was clear we need to improve the quality of service this office provides. I have confidence in my abilities to do this job, in challenging the staff to improve and set higher standards of excellence.
SUN: Now that we know why you’re running, why are you running as a Republican?
Denise Ericson: I am a conservative, always have been and always will be.
SUN: How do you think your experience has prepared you for the role of a county recorder?
Denise Ericson: I spent 15 years in retail management. Learning every aspect of the business was necessary in order to train employees in their jobs. I pushed for excellence in every department, worked alongside them when labor hours were short and addressed employee issues when needed. With a career change in mind I went back to school to hone my skills in business management and to study computer technology which led to a career in Commercial Real Estate Development. I worked directly with real estate transactions and lease agreements. I’ve been an office manager and a supervisor to a maintenance crew. I later was responsible for working with a 25M dollar capital expenditure budget where I negotiated with vendors and suppliers for services, ordered equipment for new construction and remodels. All of which has taught me the management and budgetary skills this office needs to succeed.
SUN: What is the first thing you would change about the way the Recorder’s office is run?
Denise Ericson: Improve moral by creating a team effort. It takes a team work to be productive and provide the services you expect and everyone must get on board.
SUN: What else would you change?
Denise Ericson: From visiting the office personally, I believe there is a need for change in the daily operations to make the office more efficient – Cross training the staff to prevent delays – Improve communication and I would like to see us implement e-recordings.
SUN: From talking with people around Christian County, what do you think are the most important issues to people in this county, both in this race & longer term?
Denise Ericson: After visiting with a number of title companies and other patrons, they all agreed they want to see improved customer service, better communication and improved technology. We can improve customer service and communication without spending a dime and we can make improvements on technology as county dollars allow. The citizens want to be proud of their elected officials and want them to be uphold their promises and their commitment to serving the communities.
SUN: What makes you different from all the other candidates for Recorder?
Denise Ericson: I have spent the last 25 years researching the archives in courthouses thru-out the mid-west and have been involved with genealogical and historical societies in their efforts to preserve our history. No other candidate has that kind of interest in the archives. I have worked my way up from a cashier to a management position and from and administrative assistant to a supervisor. I have proven my abilities and believe in excellence in the workplace.
SUN: Why should Christian County voters cast their ballot for you?
Denise Ericson: I have the proven leadership and management skills this office needs. Striving for excellence and being very meticulous have taken me far in my careers. With teamwork, I am confident we can make the improvements this office needs and prepare it for future growth.
SUN: Do you have a website where voters can find more information?
Denise Ericson: No, I did not set up a website but I can be contacted at EricsonForRecorder@yahoo.com.
