On New Year’s Day, Cayuga County will have its first new clerk in 20 years.
Brian Scanlan takes over the role from Sue Dwyer who was first elected in 2003. He told Finger Lakes News Radio that he’s excited to take on his new role.
“I’m excited and eager to get started and looking forward to working with the fine staff that we have at all four offices at the county clerk,” he said.
In November, the Democrat-backed Scanlan won a three-way race against Republican Chris Petrus and Conservative Kristine Lytle. Since then, he has been meeting with Dwyer and staff at the clerk’s office. He is thankful for their cooperation and believes it will result in a smooth transition.
“I’ve been working with staff and there’s a terrific staff in that office,” he continued. “I’m very fortunate that I have that coming in.”
As county clerk, Scanlan will oversee the Historian’s Office, Records Retention Center, the Recording Office, and the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Dwyer previously spoke to Finger Lakes News Radio about her time as clerk. When asked what advice she had for whichever of the three individuals who would ultimately succeed her, she said the most important thing a clerk can do is listen.
“I would say if somebody needs help, have them come into your office and sit down and listen to them because most of the time that’s what they wanted and they haven’t gotten it… please help people in any way you can,” Dwyer said.
You can read more about Dwyer’s 20-year stint as county clerk in the interview below.
