By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler had to do something few, if any, clerks have done before her: hold an election in a temporary workspace during the HVAC renovation project at the courthouse. Schmeidler was named the county clerk in October 2021, after her longtime predecessor Donna Zimmerman announced her retirement. Now back inside the courthouse, Schmeidler recently filed for candidacy to retain her position so she can continue work on some ongoing projects.
"We received an Election Security Grant from the state, and we're still working on implementing the improvements that we were able to do because of that grant," she said. "I'd like to see all those through. Also, I strive to conduct fair and just elections and to make sure the people's voices are heard. We have a great team in the office and we work well together. I really enjoy coming to work every day."
Schmeidler began working for Barton County in 1994. She worked in Communications, the county attorney's office, and the Records Department before moving to the clerk's office nine years ago. She was appointed to the clerk's job by the Barton County Republican Committee when Zimmerman retired after 26 years in the office.
"I always thought that probably helped me out with those different experiences in different departments," Schmeidler said. "It helps me understand the county a little bit better and has helped me in my job as the county clerk."
The deadline to file for candidacy in the Aug. 6 primary election was Monday at noon. Alicia Straub, a former Barton County commissioner and current Kansas senator, has also filed to run for the county clerk position.