Experience is the main point of focus for the candidates for the Putnam County Clerk’s race.

For Tracy Bridges, it is 22 years experience in county government and currently serving as the county’s recorder, while Debbie Ensor has 29 years experience in the clerk’s office, serving as the first deputy.

“I have 22 years experience in county government, eight years in office management and staff management. I am a life-long resident of Putnam County and am really passionate about the county and the people who live here,” Bridges told the Putnam County Post.

On the other side of the ballot, Ensor started in the auditor’s office in the 1990’s as a claims deputy before moving to the auditor’s office in 1993.

“I worked under Marty Watts and have her support. I have worked under three clerks and have been first deputy for last 20-something years,” Ensor told the Putnam County Post.

Bridges was elected as recorder in 2014, replacing her mother, Opal Sutherlin, who retired after more than two decades in county government.

“It was really great. Mom was the clerk for eight years, as well. It was big shoes to fill. I was a little more progressive and ready to advance things than mom. We were able to move to more electronic services, and it has expedited services,” said Bridges, who added the electronic recording process is something she is proud of having accomplished during her tenure as recorder.

Ensor also touted the digitizing of records in her office as something she is proud of.

“We have gone paperless and a new state-wide system that I was the main point person of. We have cleaned up a lot of files going digital,” Ensor said.

Both candidates touted their respective experience as a reason why voters should select them in next week’s Republican primary.

“I have the past experience. I haven’t worked in the clerk’s office but have worked in several offices around the clerk’s office. The state won’t let you fail and I have no doubt in my ability. I have the ability to manage people, meet state guidelines, follow budgets and the management experience,” Bridges said.

For Ensor, she touts her experience in the clerk’s office and having been the point person on several changes in systems and practices within the office.

“We have gone paperless and a new state-wide system that I was the main point person of. We have cleaned up a lot of files going digital. Our clerk’s office runs very smoothly. There are no problems in here that we have, we are very busy and very streamlined and keep it together. I would try to get some more revenue into the county with court costs and fees that we are not getting paid. I am very experienced, knowledgeable, dependable and honest. I have been here for 29 years and can do everything in this office,” Ensor said.