Editor:

When I started as a deputy clerk in 1972, I knew nothing about the job. I was blessed to have one of the best clerks in central Virginia train me, and for five years I slowly learned the operation of the office.

When Buckingham County was formed in 1761 from Albemarle County, we were under British rule and the first clerk at that time was David Bell. There have only been 11 clerks since that time. A father and son served as clerk a total of 88 years, and a husband and wife served a combined total of 56 years. The clerk is a constitutional officer, and the term of office under the state constitution is eight years. The other constitutional officers (sheriff, treasurer, commonwealth attorney and commissioner of revenue) have terms of four years. The Code of Virginia sets forth 800 statutory duties and responsibilities of the clerk. That is the main reason why a clerk’s term is eight years, because there is so much to learn and to know.

When you go to the polls to vote in November think very carefully who you choose. This election is not a popularity contest. It will be the most important decision you will make for Buckingham County for the next five years.

There are 120 clerks in the State of Virginia. Each Clerk has a designated chief deputy, based on seniority. My chief deputy, Diane Blackburn, was appointed clerk until the next election. Most clerks in Virginia will tell you that a well-trained, experienced chief deputy will make a very good clerk. I believe Mrs. Blackburn is the most qualified because of her years of service and experience in the clerk’s office. Diane Blackburn is my choice to be the next clerk of Buckingham County.

Malcolm A. Booker Jr.,

Retired Clerk of Buckingham County