The City Clerk is elected at-large from the community to a four-year term concurrent with the Mayor.  In addition to serving as the official keeper of all City records, the Clerk prepares City Council meeting agendas, ensuring public notice is given pursuant to the Open Meetings Act, and attends all meetings of the City Council keeping a full record of their proceedings.  The City Clerk serves as the Freedom of Information Officer and is responsible for administration of the Freedom of Information Act.  The Clerk also serves as the Local Election Authority, making available and receiving petitions for candidacy to election for the Offices of Mayor and City Council.

In addition to the duties of the Office of City Clerk, currently, Karen Buzzard also serves as City Collector.  The City Collector is responsible for keeping accurate financial records of all accounts; preparing the payroll for all City employees and officers; coordinating the preparation of the annual State of Illinois report and independent City Audit; and oversees utility billing.

Karen Buzzard, MMC:  Karen Buzzard was originally appointed City Collector in February, 2008.  She was elected to the Office of City Clerk in April, 2009, reelected in April, 2013, 2017, and again in April 2021.  Her term expires April, 2025.  Karen was recognized by the Municipal Clerks of Illinois (MCI) as a Registered Municipal Clerk in August, 2015.  In February, 2016, after successfully completing extensive educational programs, Karen attained the designation of Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC).  In October of 2018 Karen was elected by her peers to the MCI Institute Training Committee where she served a four year term developing training programs for the clerks in Illinois.  In August of 2019 she was inducted into the Athenian Leadership Society.  In March 2021 Karen attained the designation of Master Municipal Clerk (MMC), the highest designation bestowed by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

Contact City Clerk Karen Buzzard

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