Challenges, difficulties, stressful moments, but good outweighs rough times, Shaffer says

It was an emotional evening Monday for longtime Millersburg's clerk and fiscal officer, who is retiring at the end of April.

In her final duties, Karen Shaffer, a notary public, swore in her replacement, Bobbie Curry.

Shaffer shared some of the memories she made over her 33 year career serving Millersburg, wearing many different hats in her role as clerk, tax officer and fiscal officer.

She began working for the village in April 1991 after being appointed to the position. The village clerk was an elected position at the time, so she would have to run for her spot in the November election.

Working without computers

Every aspect of the job was done manually back then as there were no computers, she recalled. There were big ledger books for accounting, typewriters for minutes, checks and other documents.

"All I remember thinking was, what did I get myself into," Shaffer said. "Looking back, I'm grateful I had the experience and doing the daily tasks manually. ... It taught me so much and helped me to understand how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together."

In 1999, she took on the role of income tax administrator and in 2001, the offices of clerk and treasurer were combined. In 2024, the elected clerk position was dissolved and the appointed fiscal officer position was established.

"There have been challenges, difficulties, and stressful times over the years for the village, but the accomplishments, achievements and successes far outweigh the rough times," she said.

A number of staff members over the years

Shaffer said that during her 33 years on the job she had worked with nine different administrative staff members, two solicitors, two police chiefs, five administrators, eight mayors and 24 council members, as well as numerous other village employees.

"Thank you to everyone who has ever been a part of the village people during my time here," she said. "Thank you for your support and dedication to the village, your caring ways and friendship. Each one of you are appreciated. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with such a talented and dedicated group of individuals. You are my village people.

"And thank you to the residents of the village for having trust and confidence in me and supporting me through eight elections," Shaffer continued. "Without you, my career here would never have happened. I'm grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. I enjoyed my time here, but my work is complete. and now it's time for me to begin the next chapter of my life."

A smooth transition from Shaffer to Curry

She added she is proud of what was accomplished during her time with the village, and knows the village will continue to thrive. She was committed to ensuring a smooth transition.

"I'm confident you have a great individual in Bobbie Curry stepping into this role," Shaffer said. "She will do a wonderful job."

Councilman Brent Hofstetter thanked Shaffer for her for the time she spent explaining things to him and weeks later explaining it to him again.

"Thank you very much for your patience with me and your service to the village," Hofstetter said.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Millersburg village clerk retires after 33 years of service