Deputy recorder files as candidate

Announcement creates rift, separation in recorder's office

The former Cole County deputy recorder has filed to run for the office's top spot.

Judy Ridgeway will face fellow Republican and current Recorder Ralph Bray. The primary election is in August and the general election is in November.

"I have been working in the recorder's office since 2000 and have researched all the technical advances that have taken place in the last 18 years, which brought the office up to the efficiency it has today," Ridgeway said. "I feel my experience and knowledge are important to ensure the permanent retention of local records. I've worked in all aspects of the office, and I am running because I know the job and care about making sure that the wants and needs of the patrons (are) accessible."

The county Recorder of Deeds Office is responsible for recording public documents and preserving them for historical retrieval and legal review. This includes real estate records, marriage licenses, tax liens and discharge papers.

Ridgeway said she had planned to submit her resignation as deputy recorder Monday. She said her plan was to let Bray know her intentions and stay at least for another 30 days to give him time to find a replacement and help with training.

However, Ridgeway said when she told Bray her intention to file for the election, he told her not to come back to work.

Bray said he told Ridgeway she probably should leave the office immediately instead of staying on a few weeks.

"I could tell she had thought about this for a long time," Bray said. "She asked if I wanted her to clean out her desk, and I told her that would probably be appropriate given that she's running for office. I was surprised because she had many years working in the office."

"I enjoyed my time working with her," Bray added. "She taught me a lot."