Custer County Clerk seeks $144K grant for electronic recording upgrades and document scanning

Custer County's Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) made a significant move during their January 30, 2025 meeting by approving a grant application aimed at enhancing the county's electronic recording capabilities. Clerk and Recorder Kelly Campus presented the request for funding from the Electronic Recording Technology Board, seeking $144,850 to purchase a new scanner and cover maintenance costs for the county's recording system.

Campus explained that the $3 surcharge fee collected for document recording is split between the county and the state, with the latter portion supporting smaller counties in upgrading their technology. This grant application marks Campus's third attempt to secure funding, highlighting the ongoing need for improved recording systems in the face of increasing digital demands.

The new scanner is expected to address existing gaps in the county's online document archive, referred to as the "black hole," where some documents were missed during initial scanning efforts. The BOCC's approval of the motion to support the grant application underscores their commitment to modernizing county operations and ensuring efficient public access to records.

Discussion among commissioners also touched on the financial implications of the grant, with concerns raised about the sustainability of funding beyond the current budget cycle. The county typically allocates between $15,000 and $18,000 annually for recording expenses, but the grant would help recoup some of these costs.

As Custer County continues to adapt to technological advancements, this grant approval represents a proactive step towards enhancing public service and operational efficiency. The board's collaborative approach in supporting grant applications reflects a unified effort to secure necessary resources for the county's future.