Republican central committee picks Debbie Snyder as next Linn County Register of Deeds

Deputy Register of Deeds Debbie Snyder has been chosen by the Linn County Republican Central Committee to replace the retiring register of deeds. (Ashlee Mitchell / Special to the Journal)

By Roger Sims

rsims@linncountyjournal.com

MOUND CITY – Debbie Snyder held a prepared statement in her hand as she sat at the back of the room during a caucus of the Linn County Republican Party Central Committee on Sunday, Oct. 19. The purpose of the caucus was to appoint a replacement for retiring county Register of Deeds Kristy Schmitz.

If Snyder planned to speak to the committee to promote her nomination before the vote. She didn’t get the chance.

As soon as party chair Becky Johnson turned to the business of selecting Schmitz’s replacement, Snyder got a nomination followed quickly for a second. Johnson asked three more times for nominations, and after no one offered another name, a motion was made to declare Snyder the new register of deeds by acclamation.

The vote to approve her nomination was unanimous with 20 of the 23 precinct committee members voting, according to Johnson. Not all of the committee members were present. The nomination is now headed to Gov. Laura Kelly’s office, where it is expected to be approved.

Following the vote, Johnson gave Snyder the floor to read her statement.

She said she has worked for the Register of Deeds office for the past 11 years. She is currently the deputy register of deeds. Prior to that she worked in the County Treasurer’s office for two years.

She said that working in that office, she gained valuable experience in county operations, public service and accurate recordkeeping.

“Being born and raised right here in Linn County, I take great pride in the work we do for our residents,” she said. “This county isn’t just where I work – it’s my home.”

Snyder noted that she and her husband Ron Snyder have been married for 42 years and have three sons, all of them now with their own families.

“We’re blessed with six grandchildren, and they’re a reminder of why maintaining integrity, transparency and accuracy in county records in county records truly matters,” she added.

Snyder said that because of her experience she was confident she could ensure a smooth transition of leadership and continue to offer the exceptional service that citizens and come to expect.

“Over my years in the Register of Deeds office, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the laws, procedures, and attention to detail this position requires,” she said. “I’ve built strong working relationships with local title companies, surveyors, real estate professionals, and county staff.”

“My commitment to this community and my years of hands-on experience make me confident that I can continue to uphold the integrity and trust that this office represents,” Snyder added.