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The two candidates for Hillsborough clerk of court are among the most recognized names in county politics, and they are known for opposite reasons. Over her 30-year career in public life, Democrat Pat Frank has served her community and her state with an atypical level of competence, embodying what dedication to government service is about. Republican Chris Hart served eight years as a Hillsborough County commissioner, during which he accomplished little of distinction, largely because his poor communication skills blurred his agenda. Frank is a clear thinker with a sharp eye and a straightforward style whose exacting standards are needed in the county's top bookkeeper.
Frank, 74, a former School Board member, state legislator and county commissioner, has experience across many levels of government, giving her a rich view of the varied demands on the clerk's office. The clerk maintains court records and the county's legal books, provides auditing and administrative services for county offices and acts as the conduit between the public and government records. Attention to detail is vital in a clerk, as is recognizing the responsibility to make access to records easy and affordable.
Frank's plan for making the office more efficient, and for expanding online access to government and the courts, would bring much-needed improvements to customer service. She is mindful about the need to control court processing fees. Frank's long history as an advocate of open government instills faith that she will deliver. She is demanding, but Frank holds herself to the same high standards, and few can match her integrity and strong work ethic.
Hart, 60, is a retired Army officer and former commercial and community banker who served on the commission from 1994 to 2002. During his time on the board, Hart was a conservative voice, and he was known for being hard working and accessible. It's unclear what Hart would bring to the clerk's job. He talks about bringing business skills to the office, but he speaks in dense terms that call into question what he would do. Hart recognizes that the office often delivers poor service, and he is right that staff morale and training need attention.
Frank recognizes these problems, too, but she is adept at pairing problems with specific solutions. As the winner will succeed the longtime clerk, Richard Ake, who is retiring, it is important that voters choose someone who not only exudes competence but who has the record in elected office to match. The Times recommends Democrat Pat Frank for Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court.