Town of Blacksburg Adopted Operating Budget FY 2027

TOWN CLERK

NARRATIVE

The Town Clerk serves as a liaison between Town Council and the general public. As an appointee of Town Council, the Clerk is responsible for creating and preserving the public record and ensuring that information on local government activities is made available to citizens upon request. The Clerk's Office supports an open, accessible government that provides a communication link between the citizens and the local governing body. FY 2026 ACCOMPLISHMENTS  Maintained and coordinated the annual update of historic archived Town Council minutes to ensure continued online public access.  Served as the State Designated Records Officer for the Town of Blacksburg, collaborating with the Library of Virginia and town departments to ensure compliance with state mandated public records management requirements, including training and participation in the electronic records destruction program.  Fostered clear and effective communication as the Town’s FOIA Officer by responding to information requests and conducting research on a wide range of topics.  Completed the annual review and update of the Town’s public records, including both electronic files and paper documents housed in the Town Clerk’s vault.  Coordinated state-mandated annual filings of Statements of Economic Interests for Town Council members and Real Estate Disclosures for members of the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Town Manager.  Facilitated the annual appointment process for town-affiliated boards, commissions, and committees, as well as Town Council membership assignments for the 2025–2026 term. FY 2027 OBJECTIVES  Continued professional development through the Virginia Municipal Clerks Association and the International Institute of Municipal Clerks conferences.  Sustain high standards of records management in accordance with responsibilities as the State Designated Records Officer and FOIA Officer.  Pursue continuous professional education through active membership and engagement with relevant municipal and records management associations.  Represent the Town Clerk’s Office in community outreach efforts, supporting town sponsored events and coordinating special activities, recognitions, and official presentations for the Mayor and Town Council.  Improve online accessibility and electronic communications to increase efficiency in the annual boards, commissions, and committees appointment process.  Advance the digitization of public records to enhance transparency, efficiency, and access for the public and town staff.

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