Naples Daily News: Clerk’s role as ‘public trustee’

Guest Commentary 

BY DWIGHT E. BROCK, Clerk of the Circuit Court Collier County

The Constitution of Florida defines the role of the Clerk of the Circuit Court as “Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, Auditor, Recorder and Custodian of all County Funds”.

In addition, provisions of the Florida Constitution establish the clerk as an elected “public trustee” whose responsibilities are central to a system of “checks and balances” in local government. Examples of those duties include ensuring taxpayer’s money is managed according to law, conducting internal audits of county government, providing assistance to citizens needing access to the courts, maintaining court documents and providing access to public records.

Sunshine Week, March 13-19, 2011 is fast approaching and there is no better time to remind citizens of their right to access public records and/or attend public meetings.

Read: http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2011/feb/23/guest-commentary-clerks-role-public-trustee/