Our very own President-Elect, Domonique Clemons, gave us a peek behind the scenes of his work as Clerk/Register for Genesee County. Initially appointed to that role in 2022 to fill the remainder of a term left vacant by his predecessor, Clemons was elected to a full term in 2024. The combined county clerk/register of deeds office has three major divisions: vital records, elections, and deeds.
Domonique provided an overview of the main priorities he has for his work and examples of how they are addressed in each of the divisions. The priorities are:
Build effective staff culture
Improve services
Ensure access and transparency
In practice, this includes things such as regular teambuilding and professional development activities for staff; implementation of new record management software and cross-training staff; fee waivers and community birth certificate events to eliminate cost barriers to vital records; and partnering with the Genesee County Jail to ensure that every person discharged has a state-issued ID when they leave.
Together, the measures have resulted in streamlined services. Clerk Clemons shared that the average wait time to be seen is 5 minutes (longer on Mondays because that is the day concealed pistol licenses are processed). In the last two
fiscal years, the clerk/register of deeds office found enough efficiencies to be able to trim $300,000 from the budget without cutting staff or services.
With regard to elections, Clerk Clemons shared that Michigan has the most decentralized system of administering elections of any state. In the United States, the federal government has no role in actually running elections or counting votes. Most elections are run at the state or county level (depending on each state's law), but Michigan is different. Our system is even more diffuse, with every city or township clerk running the local election with results reported to the county clerk.
He also provided information about new fraud alert programs to address fraudulent title claims. Genesee County property owners can now sign up for free fraud alerts at PropertyFraudAlert.com or by calling 800-728-3858. This ensures they will be notified should anyone submit a deed claim.
Clerk Domonique Clemons and President Nick
A Wealth of Cultural Traditions This Week
We have a bounty of cultural traditions occurring this week- each with its own meaning, history, and customs.
Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year, celebrated in many parts of Asia, starts on the first new moon of the lunar year. In 2026, that was yesterday- February 17. In China, this is marked by a week of holiday celebrations, although some people celebrate for up to two weeks, culminating with the Lantern Festival on March 3. This is the year of the Horse.
Fat Tuesday/Ash Wednesday
This week is the beginning of Lent, the solemn 40-day period before Easter that symbolizes the weeks Jesus spent in the desert fasting. Christians who observe Lent may give up certain things they enjoy and focus on reflection. The first day of Lent (today) is known as Ash Wednesday, and Christians may attend special services and wear an ash cross on their forehead. The day before, known as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, is the last day of indulgence before the period of fasting begins.
Ramadan
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is also based on the lunar calendar and also started on February 17 this year. Marked with fasting during daylight hours, prayers, and breaking the fast with loved ones, Ramadan is the holiest time of year for Muslims because it commemorates the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, being revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. In fact, observing Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam (along with the declaration of faith, making the Hajj pilgrimage, giving alms, and praying five times daily).
Thirsty Thursday- February 19
Our next hangout at a local pub is just around the corner. Meet us at Churchill's from 5-7 pm on February 19!
Health and Welfare
Lynne Hurand shared that she spoke with Richard Gibbs, who was a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Flint but moved away a few years ago. He is doing well and reports that joining his new local Rotary Club was a great way to get connected with his new community.
Service Opportunity
Save the date of February 28 for the Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed build at 9 am. It will take place at the Signs by Crannie warehouse at 4145 Marketplace Pl. and should wrap up by 1 pm.
You do not need to register in advance- come, wear closed-toe shoes, and be ready to sand some wood and stain some beds!
Proposed Slate of Board of Directors
President Nick introduced the current slate of directors nominated for the 2026-27 Rotary Year. Please note that there was a change announced on February 13: Marissa Pierce has decided to step down, which means Dawn Hibbard will move up and be nominated for President Elect. Casey Lester was nominated from the floor to complete the slate.
