Original release courtesy of Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders

The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) presented Independence City Recorder Karin Johnson, MMC, with the 2024 City Recorder of the Year award. Ms. Johnson received the award at the association’s Annual Banquet held at Wildhorse Resort and Casino in Pendleton, Oregon, on September 26, 2024.

The guidelines for Recorder of the Year state any OAMR member, City Manager, or Mayor may submit a confidential nomination to acknowledge recorders and recognize their excellence and professional accomplishments. The nominee must have made an outstanding contribution or performed outstanding service to OAMR, to the profession of Municipal Recorder, or to an individual city during the association fiscal year. This award recognizes outstanding service and performance over and above the person’s job description. Some possible strengths might include areas such as Public Relations, Records Management, Legislative or Council Procedures, or even a special project.
Ms. Johnson has been an active member of OAMR since 2000. She has served as a member and chair on numerous committees, served as region director, and served as President in 2010-2011 again in 2022-2023. She received her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation in 2004 and the prestigious Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation in 2009 from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC). She was also recognized as an Athenian Fellow by IIMC in 2017.
Ms. Johnson has worked at the City of Independence since May, 2000 and plans to retire at the end of this year.

During the award presentation, OAMR President Nanci Sandoval thanked Ms. Johnson for being an inspirational leader, role model, beacon of hope, mentor, and, most importantly, a friend. Some of the words from her nomination are, “Ms. Johnson’s leadership has been nothing short of exceptional. She has demonstrated a remarkable ability to guide others through uncertainty, fostering collaboration and consensus even under challenging decisions. Her calm, thoughtful approach to problem-solving has earned the respect of her peers, and her clear vision for the future has helped to set a positive course for the entire organization. She has shown a talent for bringing people together, creating an atmosphere where ideas are freely shared and everyone feels heard, even though we may not always agree.

Ms. Johnson’s commitment to developing future leaders within OAMR is also notable. She has consistently mentored others, empowering new organization members to step into leadership roles confidently. This willingness to invest in the next generation of leaders is a testament to her dedication to the long-term success of OAMR, ensuring the organization remains strong and vibrant for years to come.

In addition to her leadership skills, her communication abilities have been outstanding. She has consistently provided clarity during complex situations, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and engaged. Her ability to listen and respond thoughtfully has been critical in addressing concerns and building colleague trust. This level of transparency and openness has been vital to OAMR’s ongoing success and has helped create a culture of inclusivity and innovation within the organization.

Ms. Johnson’s contributions extend far beyond her recent role. Over the years, she has been deeply involved in various aspects of OAMR, including her work as Chair of the Professional Development and Leadership Committee and her long-standing membership on the Northwest Clerks’ Institute Education Committee. In addition, she has represented OAMR on the IIMC Foundation Development Committee and is a recognized Paul Craig Athenian Fellow.

In 2021, OAMR urgently needed leadership during a crucial transition. As the organization worked through the aftermath of the pandemic and began its first-ever Strategic Plan, there was a significant need for someone to take on the role of First Vice President. She helped guide the organization forward by successfully planning her second OAMR Annual Conference. She took on the challenge with a strong background as a past president, knowing the obstacles ahead and how to navigate them effectively.

In her most recent role as Immediate Past President, she has continued to be an invaluable resource to the current leadership, offering historical perspective and support during the ongoing implementation of the Strategic Plan. Change is never easy, and she has led OAMR through some challenging discussions, demonstrating resilience and commitment.

Given her many years of service, her unwavering dedication to the profession, and her contributions as City Recorder, she is a highly deserving candidate for the 2024 OAMR Recorder of the Year Award.”
Congratulations, Ms. Johnson!

OAMR is a professional organization dedicated to promoting governmental relationships and providing educational and training opportunities for over 200 Oregon city recorders statewide.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Lisa Scholl, MMC, OAMR Publications Committee, 503-366-8216
City of St. Helens