Jill Golden-Palmer, deputy clerk since 2015, aims to have an even greater impact on her community in her new role as Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder.
"I think you could say that the county clerk position chose me," Golden-Palmer told Southeastern Illinois News,
She was first introduced to the clerk's office while looking for employment close to home after her tenure at the Bechtel Corporation.
Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder Jill Golden-Palmer
"The lady that had previously worked as the deputy was retiring," Golden-Palmer recalled. "I received word of her retirement, called for an appointment to interview and was hired. After working for about three years, my boss Beth (Wargel) decided she would also retire. I liked my job, liked working with people and decided to run for county clerk."
Golden-Palmer went uncontested in the election last fall and officially took office on Dec. 3, 2018.
"The daily routine here at the county clerk's office allows me to wear many hats," she explained. "We look up marriage licenses for people, record new licenses for couples to be married, sign death certificates, keep grants up to date, run multiple payrolls, record board minutes, run elections, early voting, tax redemptions and more."
Fortunately, Golden-Palmer's diverse professional background has prepared her well for the demanding role.
"I have worked various jobs as a waitress, as a secretary and bookkeeper for fertilizer companies, a teacher's aide in Alaska, and a document-control technician for Bechtel Corporation," Golden-Palmer said.
She holds an associate degree in computer programming, and bachelor's and master's degrees in anthropology.
As for goals in her new role, Golden-Palmer puts digitizing land, birth, marriage and death certificates at the top of her list.
"I would like to become more of a part of the community," she added. "To see what needs the community has and try to improve upon those needs."
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