Green retiring after serving 33 years as SFC Circuit Clerk
Bette S. Green, St. Francis County Circuit Clerk and ExOfficio Recorder, is announcing today her impending retirement at the end of her current term, which ends Dec. 31.
Green began her career in public service in 1972, working for the late SFC County Clerk Dorothy C. Bernard. In 1974, Green moved to the SFC Circuit Clerk’s office under the late clerks Cecil McFall and W.C. “Bill” Gatling, respectively. After spending 15 years as chief deputy circuit clerk, Green was elected to the office in 1989 and has held the seat for the last 33 years.
While her actual retirement date will be Dec. 31, Green thanks the citizens of SFC for their support during her years of dedicated service and commitment to county government.
“I want to thank the wonderful people of this great county for allowing me to serve you as your circuit clerk for the last 33 years,” Green said. “Being elected to county government is a privilege, not a right. I am humbled that you have seen fit to allow me that privilege for all these years. I’ve met so many great people in our community and across our state. I’ve made so many life-long friends. God has truly blessed me.”
During her years of service, Green has seen many changes in the way the work is done, with the most significant changes caused by computers.
“There were many changes from the time I started, especially once I was first elected. I have always strived to be progressive in our office and the implementation of computers has really made things more efficient. They have vastly changed the daily operation of the office. When I started, we used typewriters, paper and pens. While not everything has changed, computers have made many positive changes.
“Some of our most recent changes center around computerized records,” continued Green. “In late 2019, we partnered with Fidlar Technologies to provide the option of e-recording. Erecording allows us to record digital deeds. We still accept paper deeds, but this gives the public another option to record their deeds. Additionally, we just started this year working with the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts on the EFlex system. This system allows for what is called ‘e-filing,’ or the digital submission, acceptance and filing of documents in court cases. We’re excited about the increased efficiency this is bringing to our office.”
The e-recording and e-filing systems are just two of the many enhancements that have been made possible through the more than $350,000 in grant funds Green has secured for the office over the last three decades.
Other than being the custodian of court and land records, Green’s responsibilities include conducting jury orientations and notifications, collecting court-ordered child support payments and conducting commissioner sales ordered by the court.
Green, who was married to the late H.N. Green, has one daughter, Sara Harris.
She closed by again expressing her appreciation to the community.
“I am truly blessed,” added Green. “I have my faith. I have a staff that is dedicated, qualified, knowledgeable and capable. I have had the pleasure to work with so many insightful judges, exceptional lawyers and hardworking court staff. I have the love and support of my family, friends and community. I thank each and every one of you for your kindness. God bless you all.”