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We are continuing our celebration of the 55th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks week. Today, we are honored to spotlight Carey O'Connor, the Village Clerk Treasurer of Wilson, NY. Join us for a glimpse into Carey's journey and her invaluable contributions to her community:
Answering the Community's Call
Carey's journey into municipal governance paved by her diverse experiences in a number of community activities. Transitioning from managing her husband's business to becoming Deputy Clerk Treasurer and eventually assuming the role of Village Clerk Treasurer, Carey's dedication to serving her community has remained unwavering. Reflecting on her path, Carey shares, "I love working and playing in my community where I was on the PTA, a room mom and volunteered as a cheerleading coach for our local youth football group for 7 years. I have been the Village Clerk Treasurer now for 3 years after the previous Clerk Treasurer, retired after 30 years!"
A Day in the Life
Carey's daily routine revolves around ensuring the smooth operation of Wilson's local governance. "We manage the Village pocketbook, handle water/sewer billing, and attend all meetings for the Board of Trustees," Carey explains, highlighting the multifaceted nature of her responsibilities. Beyond the administrative tasks, Carey finds fulfillment in directly assisting residents, whether addressing concerns or guiding them through bureaucratic processes.
Rewarding Resident Interaction
For Carey, the essence of her role lies in helping village residents. "When we have residents upset about something, we like to help them solve the problem. When we do that and they leave with a smile on their face, it makes our entire day, sometimes week, worth it!" Carey emphasizes, underscoring the personal connection she fosters with each individual she assists. From resolving billing discrepancies to providing information on local services, Carey's dedication to addressing residents' needs is unwavering.
Navigating Challenges Together
Collaborative problem-solving is key to overcoming obstacles in the municipal clerk's office. "We communicate often," Carey notes, highlighting the support network provided by the Niagara County Municipal Clerk's Association in navigating challenges effectively. Whether adapting to changes in regulations or addressing resource constraints, Carey approaches challenges with resilience and a spirit of cooperation.
Embracing Technological Advancements
Wilson's office has eagerly adopted technological advancements to improve efficiency and accessibility for residents. "When I first started, believe it or not, they were still handwriting checks!" Carey explains. Over the past 8 years, there has been a slow transition to adding more software to assist in municipal operations. While it's been a gradual process, Carey eagerly notes, "We are currently switching to new accounting software, through gWorks and look forward to making it easier to have everything, including our water/sewer billing software, all in one place." With these advancements on the horizon, Carey enthusiastically emphasizes, "One day, we will talk about how things used to be done!"
Championing the Clerk's Office
Carey underscores the indispensable role of the Clerk's office in local government. "Local government is like the plankton in the government world, without us, big government would never work!" Carey remarks, emphasizing the office's pivotal role as the face of the community. As a trusted liaison between residents and government officials, Carey's office fosters transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard and valued.
A Journey of Continuous Improvement
Carey cherishes each day as a municipal clerk, driven by the opportunity to learn and assist residents. "My accomplishment is holding my head up high in our community, and being there for everyone." Carey asserts proudly, reflecting on her enduring commitment to serving Wilson's residents. Whether celebrating community achievements or navigating challenges, Carey's dedication leaves an indelible mark on the fabric of Wilson's vibrant community.
Carey O'Connor's work as the Village Clerk Treasurer of Wilson, NY, embodies the spirit of dedication, service, and community engagement. Her unwavering commitment to addressing residents' needs, navigating challenges, and embracing technological advancements underscores the vital role of the Clerk's office in local governance.
Stay tuned for more insightful stories as we continue to honor the tireless efforts of municipal clerks across the nation.