Commissioners Say Goodbye to Administrator, Recorder

The Marion County Commissioners said goodbye Tuesday morning to Marion County Recorder Mary Jo Osmun, who is retiring, and County Administrator Lenora Mayes, who was laid off due to budget reductions.

Tuesday was the last day of work for both individuals who have served Marion County for years. Mayes said her future plans include running for Marion County Recorder.

Both women were thanked for their service by several in attendance, including Ralph Hill who is often critical of county government officials.

Karen L. Douglas, who has worked in the Recorder’s Office for 21 years, was appointed by the Commissioners as acting Recorder until the Republican Central Committee appoints the official replacement. Douglas told the Commissioners that, considering budget constraints, she would not be hiring anyone to replace her and would run the office with one less person.

Douglas is running unopposed on the Republican ticket for Marion County Recorder. It would be expected that the Central Committee will officially appoint her to the position and she will then be running in the General Election as an incumbent.

The Commissioners issued the following proclamation honoring Osmun:

WHEREAS; Mary Jo Osmun has served the citizens of Marion County in the Office of the Marion County Recorder from June 1978 to January 2012, a period of over 33 years; and

WHEREAS; Mary Jo Osmun has served in various capacities in the Recorder’s Office, including Customer Service Manager and Chief Deputy Recorder, and for the last eight years as the Marion County Recorder; and

WHEREAS; Mary Jo Osmun is a tireless worker and lifetime supporter of good county government whose conscientious and dedicated public service has enhanced the quality of life for the citizens of Marion County; and

WHEREAS; her service has been hallmarked by steadfast integrity, honesty, and dedicated commitment to the citizens of Marion County; and

WHEREAS; Mary Jo Osmun has retired from her position as Marion County Recorder on January 31, 2012.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; that the Board of Marion County Commissioners hereby recognizes Mary Jo Osmun, Marion County Recorder, for her years of exemplary and dedicated service to Marion County, congratulates her on her retirement, and wishes her the very best in the years to come.