PAULA SCHERMERHORN



Delaware County Employee of the Month
June 2012

Paula began her employment with Delaware County on July 16, 2007 as a part-time Clerk for the Board of Elections.  On June 16, 2008, her hours were increased to full time and on August 24, 2008, she was appointed Deputy Election Commissioner by the Delaware County Democratic Committee.

Paula shares the responsibilities of the office with the Republican Deputy Commissioner, Robin Alger.  Paula’s job duties include registration of voters, maintaining and updating voter records, complying with all New York State and Federal laws, guidelines and procedures, instructing election inspectors, maintaining absentee ballots, military and federal voters, submission of several surveys throughout the year to the Department of Justice and to the New York State Board of Elections, and oversees the creation and layout of the ballot process.

Elections Commissioner, Judith Garrison states, “Paula performs the extensive duties of her job—everything from loading voting machines into a van to making certain that the Board of Elections and the polling sites are complying with every detail of election law and the election cycle—with thoroughness, dependability and good humor.”

What Paula likes most about her job is serving and educating the public, including the petitioning and filing process for candidates for office.  She takes seriously the responsibility of ensuring that elections are conducted fairly, and knows that accuracy and attention to detail are especially critical.  Paula says she likes the clerical side of her job, emphasizing, “believe it or not, I take pride in creating a great spreadsheet!”

Paula lives in South Kortright and is an avid South Kortright Rams fan (her alma mater). She is mom to three children, Matthew (19), Chelsea (18) and Ben (11).  Paula enjoys cooking, socializing with friends and family, all sports and outdoor activities.  She is also a very competitive Wii golfer and plans to try her hand at the real thing this year.

Congratulations, Paula, and thank you for a job well-done.