Clerk Karnes sworn in for new term, deputizes team members

Clerk Karnes begins his new term as Lee County’s Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller. He was sworn in on Jan. 6 and then had the distinct honor of deputizing team members who perform constitutional and statutory duties on his behalf.

The ceremony took place on the steps of the old Lee County Courthouse, and dozens of Clerk team members attended. Deputization ceremonies occur when a new clerk is appointed or elected to provide continuity in services for the public.

Clerk Karnes was recently reelected to continue his role of serving as Clerk & Comptroller. Deputization gives Clerk team members the legal authority to perform official duties and responsibilities on the Clerk’s behalf.

Karnes’ primary focuses in his next term will be to expand the county auditor role, increase transparency in county spending, elevate cybersecurity and continue to combat property fraud.