- March 14, 2025
Gail Wadsworth
AGE: 66
FAMILY: Three children, three grandchildren
QUIRKY FACT: Almost 700 skydives
BIO: Gail Wadsworth grew up and lives in Flagler County. She gained her higher education at Florida State and Stetson University, where she received her bachelor’s. Wadsworth has been an educator, accountant and CFO; currently, she is the state certified clerk of the circuit court. Although her elected office consumes much of her time, she relishes that role of county historian. Wadsworth also enjoys travel, arts and varied service clubs and volunteer opportunities. She is seeking her fourth and final term.
How does the clerk impact residents?
By definition: “The clerk of court and ex officio clerk of the board of county commissioners, auditor, recorder and custodian of all county funds” builds and maintains records — the history — for its constituency. ... I will continue to use technology to fulfill my commitment to keep all of us “online, not in line.”
What is the biggest challenge facing the clerk in the next four years?
County and state funding challenges and the paperless initiative. ...
The clerk’s office is funded by the state, Flagler County and by fees generated through our operations. Unfortunately, these funding sources are fueled (in part) by our economy, which has taken a downturn. As a result of this reduction in funding, we have learned to do more with less.
As your custodian of the public record, we recognize the importance of a paperless office. Over the last 12 years, my office has moved large portions of our data storage and daily operations away from paper and toward a more “paper-free” environment; for example, our Official Records Department has been paperless since 2002. ... We have instituted E-filing in our courts division (which is currently active) as well as E-recording (recording division) and “real time” virtual auction capabilities (foreclosure and tax deed auctions), both of which will be online in the coming year. Each of these practices will allow our customers ... to perform much of their clerk-related business from their home or office.
What makes you the most qualified for this office?
Your clerk’s office has been on the leading edge of paper to paperless. Additionally ... of 20-plus audits, we have received unqualified audit opinions. ... Experience counts. ... Knowledge of complex and changing legislation and laws, long-term relationships with state and local officials, attorneys and others that navigate the court and records systems daily.
