Vote for Gregory Winterbottom

Last June when two candidates were challenging the reelection bid of Lee Branch, the incumbent county recorder, we urged the election of Gregory Winterbottom.

We have seen nothing since the primary to change our minds that a change is in order in the recorder’s office. And Winterbottom, who is the Easter Seals regional director in Orange County and a former aide in county and state government, is still the best choice. He has the attitude, experience and ability the recorder’s office needs.

Last year a county administrative office management report listed numerous inefficiencies in the recorder’s office, including “rude behavior” toward the public. Many judges who relied on the incumbent in his dual duties as county clerk-recorder were also unhappy with that office’s performance.

The duties were split by the Board of Supervisors; a new clerk was appointed and Branch retained the role of recorder. That doesn’t change the fact that he was found lacking in both roles. And while the latest county administrative office report showed improvement, no one really expected less after all the commotion the first report caused.

It took a critical report, a split of duties by the county board and election opposition from two challengers to put the office back on the right path. What cannot be forgotten is the lack of leadership and attention to detail that led to the poor performance in the first place. We think Gregory Winterbottom is best suited to provide the courteous and efficient service that residents should be getting, and we urge his election as county recorder.