SAFFORD — For the second time in 30 days, the Graham County Board of Supervisors were called on to replace a retiring elected official.
During Monday’s meeting, the board voted unanimously to appoint Polly Merriman to serve the remaining term of Graham County Recorder, through Dec. 31, 2024.
Prior to her appointment, Merriman served in the Recorder’s Office as the voter registration specialist and deputy Recorder, and has worked for the county for more than 20 years.
“Elections . . . have become such an item and importance to us, we have to be very diligent on what we do with our elections; it’s ever changing constantly,” said Supervisor John Howard. “It’s so important that we have somebody in that position that has the experience and the knowledge to do this.”
The position came open upon the retirement of Wendy John. John has served Graham County for 30 years.
The Recorder’s Office records documents in the county, primarily property deeds and other public records.
The Recorder’s Office is also responsible for the voter registration rolls, as well as verifying signatures on mail-in ballots and coordinating early voting locations with the Director of Elections.
On Feb. 21, the Board of Supervisors appointed Cindi Orr to serve the remainder of the term for Graham County Treasurer, following the retirement of Mary Bingham.
As with Merriman, Orr will serve until Dec. 31, 2024.
