March 19, 2024

Clarke County Treasurer Lynn retired, Smith took office April 1

Former Clarke County Treasurer Debbie Lynn retired after her last day March 31. Lynn began her career at the Treasurer’s office in 1995 and became Treasurer in 2009.

“I am very blessed to have the opportunity to serve the wonderful people of Clarke County. I have made so many great friends over the years,” said Lynn.

The current staff of the Treasurer’s office is what Lynn calls her ‘biggest accomplishment’. She is proud of their customer service skills and she is confident in how the office will continue to run even as she begins her retirement journey.

“My husband David and I plan to do a little traveling and I am going to take up the sport of golf again. Of course spending more time with our grandchildren will be on the top of my list of things to do,” said Lynn. “...For me, it’s simply time to stop and smell the roses.”

Just as Lynn had been a stickler for customer service as Treasurer, the newly appointed Clarke County Treasurer Jessica Smith is excited to serve.

Smith began working part time in the driver’s license department nearly 10 years ago and became first deputy when Lynn was Treasurer. When Lynn decided to retire Smith applied for the position and was appointed by the Clarke County Board of Supervisors.

“I just wanted to serve Clarke County,” said Smith. “I was one of the last babies born in the hospital here, I’ve lived here all my life, even both of my boys have graduated from here. I love Clarke County and I look forward to continuing to serve to constituents of Clarke County.”

Smith will now be in charge of collecting property taxes as well as having driver’s license and motor vehicle duties in her office. She also has reports and state credits to account for. Smith is excited for her journey as Treasurer and to serve Clarke County in this capacity.

Moving into Smith’s former position as first deputy treasurer is Brooke Caldwell. Caldwell was appointed to first deputy at Monday’s Supervisor’s meeting.

Tyra Audlehelm

Tyra Audlehelm

I grew up in Osceola and live here still with my husband and son. I graduated with my Bachelor degree in Journalism and Mass Communications in 2017. I have work at the OST since January of 2018.