![\"Long-time](\"http:\/\/www.greenstreetdata.com\/PS\/owego\/files\/2019\/09\/Dougherty-1024x610.jpg\")
Prior to her role at the Legislature, Dougherty worked for ten years in law offices and also as a village clerk in Candor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Tioga County legislative clerk wears many hats and performs tasks that nearly redefine the traditional word clerk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The legislative clerk provides administrative support to the County Legislature, such as organizing meeting agendas, recording minutes and legal notifications, along with publishing the legislative proceedings, resolutions, and local laws, just to name a few. The Legislative Clerk also processes all vendor payments to ensure they meet County guidelines, and audits those purchases to ensure they meet controller guidelines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dougherty chuckled as she described one aspect of her job, \u201cI have written so many resolutions. There should be a Pulitzer Prize for that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dougherty was appointed to the Deputy Legislative Clerk in September 1986 and, subsequently, the Legislative Clerk position in January 1988.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dougherty explained that she has watched the Legislature grow and change, \u201cFrom being elected every two years and then going to staggered terms.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She was appointed Tioga County\u2019s first Auditor in March 1989 and has held that role continuously since then. In addition, she has participated in the New York State Clerk\u2019s Association. An orientation program that Dougherty helped develop for new department heads and legislators is still in use today. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dougherty has been a building coordinator at 56 Main St. since its inception, and previously held the roles of State Aid Coordinator and Performance Management Coordinator, among other roles. Dougherty has also worked closely with Towns and Villages throughout the county, which included the training of Village of Owego employees on an accounts payable system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During Dougherty\u2019s tenure, the task of upgrading two financial systems took place and a County Manager was put into place and then rescinded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When asked what aspects have made improvements in the county, Dougherty replied that there have been many; however, \u201cThe building of a new jail and the opening of the Health and Human Services building have made a considerable difference in the county.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for the many challenges in 33 years, Dougherty said, \u201cBeing displaced from 56 Main Street after the 2011 flood was one of the most difficult time periods.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Amy Poff, benefits manager, offered these words about Dougherty, \u201cI have worked with Maureen for many years, and she is a great resource. Often when I have a question on a county topic, my first phone call is to Maureen,\u201d and she added, \u201cMaureen takes great pride in her work helping operate Tioga County government.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rita Hollenbeck, chief accountant and budget officer and Tioga County Treasurer, offered these remarks, \u201cMaureen is the foundation of the entire county structure. I really don\u2019t think it\u2019s possible to replace her dedication, loyalty, integrity and fairness. Unequivocally Maureen has served the county and its residents proficiently and with 100 percent commitment. For many years to come all the processes and procedures she developed and implemented will be used by county employees and legislators alike,\u201d and added, \u201cHer example and leadership will be missed! These will be the toughest shoes to fill.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maureen Dougherty will be recognized at the Legislative Meeting on Sept. 10. An informal gathering in her honor will be held at the American Legion on Sept. 12.<\/p>\n\n\n\n