After 23 years in the elected position as Carroll County Recorder, Marilyn Dopheide surprised many with her announcement that she will be retiring effective at the end of this month. She presented her plans to the Carroll County Board of Supervisors at their meeting Tuesday morning, saying that she had been considering this move for some time. All of the supervisors expressed their regrets over her decision, but also wished her well in her future endeavors. Neil Bock says he had a discussion with Dopheide prior to the public announcement, saying he wished she would have finished her term, which is up for reelection this coming November. Dopheide had offered a recommendation that Deputy Recorder, Kathy Schwaller, be appointed to serve for the remainder of that term. However, Carroll County resident, Ken Snyder made a request for a special election.
Carroll County Auditor’s Office Real Estate Deputy, Ashten Wittrock had expressed an interest in running for the position. The supervisors did begin discussions on the possibility of a special election. Gene Meiners says he, personally, does not believe they need to hold one, citing the high cost when there is just a short time until mid-term elections in November. The earliest potential date for a special election would be mid- to late February and Auditor, Kourtney Irlbeck, says it could cost around $7,000, but that, she says, is probably a low figure. It would also require about 1,055 petition signatures for a candidate to be successful with a request. Meiners suggested a detailed conversation on the subject. Dean Schettler agreed that he would have liked to see Dopheide complete her term as well.
Again citing just months to the next election, Schettler says he agrees with the appointment process. Meiners adds that if the discussion was taking place at the beginning of the term, this would be a completely different conversation. The issue of a special election was tabled for the time being, and the supervisors will be holding discussions with any potential candidates. Dopheide’s letter of resignation was officially accepted by the board.
