By Chris Frost
Eagle Times News Editor
SPRINGFIELD, VT — The Springfield Select Board received a letter from the Vermont Municipal Clerks and Treasurer’s Association (VMCTA) on Friday, Sept. 15, honoring Clerk and Treasurer Barbara Courchesne, who received an award at the VMCTA Awards Banquet.
Chair Kristi Morris said Courchesne completed the requirements as a Certified Vermont Treasurer and has received her certification.
“I hope that will be hung proudly in her office,” said Morris. “The Association Certificate Program was established to increase the proficiency of Vermont municipal clerks and treasurers, strengthen the quality of local government and afford clerks and treasurers the recognition to conduct the affairs of local government, and provide a vehicle where clerks can attain the status of Certified Vermont Clerk and Treasurer.”
He said the VMCTA Certification was introduced nine years ago so Vermont Clerks and Treasurers could continue their education and receive recognition for their efforts.
“The certification program includes components of years of service, related municipal experience in the community and involvement in the VMCTA,” Morris said.
Board Member Michael Martin said the recognition is an honor for the town of Springfield.
“Barbara Courchesne has been professional, conscientious and above reproach,” said Martin. “In every instance I have had the opportunity to work with her, I’ve been pleased with the professionalism and the service I’ve received as a select board member. I believe she provides that same service to everybody who walks through the door.”
Martin added that Courchesne is one of the best town clerks in Vermont.
Town Manager Jeff Mobus said the treasurer is a “critical component of the checks and balances of the financial operation of the town.”
“The finance department prepares all the documents, but finance cannot expend any funds; only the town treasurer can expend funds,” said Mobus. “A lot of communities have had issues with their treasurer. We’ve never had that.”
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