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WARREN -- As Election Day nears, Trumbull County Clerk of Court candidates Republican Randy Law and Democrat Jennefer Holland are emphasizing their distinct experiences and priorities for leading the office with each candidate pitching a different vision to voters.
Holland, who has worked in the clerk's office since 2007, says her candidacy builds on nearly two decades of firsthand experience, having risen from an entry-level clerk to her current role as chief juvenile clerk. "I've always wanted to keep learning and advancing," Holland said. "Karen Infante Allen (the current clerk) did a tremendous job, and my goal is to ensure a seamless transition while continuing to modernize services, like expanding e-filing in the Domestic Relations Division."
Law, a former state representative with private-sector experience, highlights his outsider perspective as an asset. He believes in adopting best practices from other counties and ensuring that the office operates with businesslike efficiency. "It's about getting the biggest bang for the taxpayer's buck," Law said. "Government needs to provide the most efficient, up-to-date services, and that's what I aim to do."
Holland sees things differently, however, noting that while certain operations, like the auto title department, can be run with a business mindset, other areas require more compassion.
"We're dealing with people's lives, criminal cases, domestic violence, divorces," she said. "You can't run every department like a business. It's about treating people with respect during their most difficult times."
Law also discussed ideas for community outreach and public education about the clerk's role, which he believes many residents don't fully understand.
"People expect us to do a good job, but they rarely interact with these offices day to day. It's important to be visible and accessible in the community," he said.
Meanwhile, Holland's focus is on leveraging her experience to maintain what she called the high standards already set by the office. She also wants to reapply for limited authority deputy registrar status to generate revenue through the auto title office, helping it remain financially independent. "The title office has been in the black for over 15 years, and I plan to keep it that way without relying on county subsidies," Holland said.
The campaign has not been without controversy. Law has faced criticism for unpaid taxes and liens, which Holland argues reflect poorly on his ability to manage public resources. "We all face hardships, but it's essential to show voters you can handle responsibility, especially when seeking an office that requires financial oversight," she said. Law maintains that these issues were either resolved or caused by administrative errors, saying, "Once I was made aware of them, I took care of them immediately."
Both candidates stress the importance of keeping the office nonpartisan. "When you're elected, you serve everyone, not just your party," Law said, emphasizing merit-based hiring. Holland agrees, adding, "Party affiliation has no place in the clerk's office. We're here to serve the public, the judges, and law enforcement, regardless of politics."
With cybersecurity increasingly critical, both candidates pledge vigilance. Holland highlighted the training courses she and her staff have taken through the Supreme Court of Ohio to guard against breaches. Law discussed the need to work closely with IT experts and follow state guidelines to stay ahead of potential threats. "You have to seek out the best information and remain vigilant because the bad guys are always a step ahead," Law said.
The winner of this closely watched race will replace Karen Infante Allen, who is retiring after serving as clerk of courts. Voters will decide on Nov. 5 who is best suited to lead the office into the future.