With racks of bound volumes containing the records of Barton County property ownership as a backdrop, Glennda French received the oath office as the new Barton County register of deeds from County Clerk Bev Schmeidler Monday morning.

French replaces Pam Wornkey, who announced her retirement earlier this month. She was elected to the post by the Barton County Republican Precinct Committee Aug. 3.

“I’m excited to get started,” said French, who officially takes office Friday. “I’m looking forward to a smooth transition.”

A longtime Ellinwood resident, she has worked in the Register of Deeds Office for three years. She has served as the deputy register of deeds for the past year and  half.

The Register of Deeds Office is the place people come to record documents, research records and get their passport. Governed by state statute, the primary function of the office is the recording of real estate related documents, deeds, mortgages, assignments of mortgages or other interests in real estate, easements, or other documents involving real estate.

“It’s very, busy, very detailed work,” French said.

Wornkey was last reelected to a four-year term in the November 2020 general election.

French will fill out the balance of this term which ends in January 2025. She would then be eligible to run for election.

Saying thank you

On Tuesday morning, the County Commission plans to recognize Wornkey for her years of service.

Workney has been employed with the county since Feb. 14, 2008. Before joining the Register of Deeds Office, she has served the county in both the Sheriff’s Office and Central Kansas Community Corrections.  

After being appointed as the deputy register of deeds in 2009, she was elected as the register of deeds with her first term beginning in 2013.