HOULTON, Maine — Two candidates are seeking election to be the Registrar of Deeds for southern Aroostook County. The Register of Deeds records land transactions such as deeds and mortgages, as well as maps and land surveys and is based at the Aroostook County Courthouse in Houlton.
Melissa L. Richardson
Residence: Houlton
What political party do you belong to? Republican
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned? I was appointed as acting Registrar of Deeds earlier this year because of my prior work experience in the office.
What is your career background? I have worked in the Registrar office in different capacities for the past five years.
What made you decide to run for the office of Registrar of Deeds? I wish to continue serving as the southern Aroostook Registrar of Deeds covering towns from Caribou to Weston to Sherman. I was appointed by Governor Paul LePage this past February.
What sort of special training do you have that you feel would be well suited for this position? I am trained in the BrownTech Computer System used in the Registrar office. I have attended special training seminars overseeing the daily operations of the office. Also, I am a member of the Maine Registry Association and attend their meetings relating to efficient operations of the office. I have experience working with the County Commissioners and the County Administrator in preparing the annual budget.
What do you see as your primary goal, if elected? To continue the effective
and efficient operations of the southern Aroostook Registry of Deeds office. A large part of this involves working with law offices in regards
to their clients and also
assisting members of the public when coming into the office on their own. This
is a political position only because one has to be elected to it. There is no political motivation in serving any member of the public. All should be and will be treated with no thought of consideration of political affiliation.
Why should people vote for you? I have close to six years’ experience in this office, including being the current Registrar. I believe I am best qualified and have shown my commitment to the office. It will be my privilege to continue to serve.
Nichol Roy
Residence: Houlton
What political party do you belong to? Democrat
What other political offices have you held? If none, what other offices, honors or titles have you earned? I am a certified nurse’s assistant, have my behavior health professional certificate and am a former office manager.
What is your career background? I have worked as a secretary for a local dentist. I also have been the office manager for a construction company. After having my children I wanted to be able to stay at home and raise them. I helped my sister at her daycare. I am currently employed for RSU 29 as an Education Technician.
What made you decide to run for the office of Registrar of Deeds? I felt it is a good time in my life to take on a new career. My kids are getting older and I can focus on learning the job.
What sort of special training do you have that you
feel would be well suited for this position? Having worked in an office in the past I
feel that experience will help me greatly in this position.
I feel my people skills will also be a good asset.
What do you see as your primary goal, if elected? If I get elected my goal is the make the change go smoothly, have the office run well and treat the taxpayers with the courtesy and respect they deserve.
Why should people vote for you? I would like the people to vote for me because I feel I am very competent to fill the position. I am from Houlton, born and raised. I have an investment in our town and community, I plan to stay in Houlton for the rest of my life.
