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Register of Deeds reports on elections, property‑fraud alerts and veteran 'Honor Rewards' program
Summary
Register/Clerk Justin reviewed 2024 operations including elections workload and early voting statistics, urged property-fraud alert signups and described the Honor Rewards veteran discount program and passport services that generate revenue for the county.
Justin, the county Register/Clerk, presented an annual review covering the clerk’s office, elections, register of deeds, vital statistics and customer programs. He said the office has 42 staff and highlighted a recent case-management and records-system implementation and the Family Justice Center consolidation.
On elections, Justin reviewed turnout patterns across the year and noted a 75% turnout in the November general election with about 40% of ballots cast absentee. He reviewed early‑voting participation and lessons learned from capacity planning for the 2024 cycle. He described a new, more robust election-results website and steps taken to avoid past performance issues.
On property records, Justin flagged a rise in property-fraud risk and encouraged residents to register for a free property-fraud alert service (propertyfraudalert.com/miottawa) and said the county has seen a 166% increase in signups. He explained that Michigan law currently limits the clerk’s ability to require ID for recorded documents and said the office is advocating for legislative changes to strengthen protections.
Justin also described the Honor Rewards program, which offers discounts through participating local businesses for veterans who register discharge paperwork; he said roughly 600 veterans are enrolled and nearly 400 businesses participate. He indicated the passport service and register-of-deeds operations contribute revenue to the general fund.
