As City Clerk, Ashley and her staff connect citizens to their government and maintain the recorded history of city government actions. The City Clerk's Office records City Council meetings' minutes, processes special assessments, records deeds and easements, updates and maintains the Russell Municipal Code Book, issues various licenses, processes special event licenses.
The City Clerk's Office assists the Governing Body in performing their legislative function by providing advance notice of all public meetings, providing public access to agendas to promote transparency and accountability in city government.
The City Clerk serves as the official record custodian of city records and is responsible for compliance with the Kansas Open Records Act by conducting research and providing information and copies of official city records for staff and citizens. The City Clerk administers the City of Russell Record Retention Policy and Schedule and serves under the administrative direction of the City Manager.
Under Ashley's leadership, the City Clerk's office will continue to provide high-quality information and services to the public, Governing Body, and City staff with the highest degree of excellence and professionalism.
Ashley graduated from Russell High School and attended North Central Kansas Technical College, where she received an associate degree in Business & Computer Technology and Business Management. She has private business and county government experience complimenting her new role as City Clerk.
Ashley is active in the Russell community through volunteer work and multiple fundraisers through Gamma Theta Sorority. Ashley is a member of St John Lutheran Church and has assisted with VBS and other youth programs. Ashley and her husband Brett have two children, Owen and Elsie.
Katrina Woelk remains the City Finance Director responsible for assisting with budget development, long-range financial planning, financial reporting and compliance, investments, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and large grants. The separation of roles and responsibilities will provide a focus for each department to efficiently and effectively respond to the increasing complexity and demand required of the City Clerk and the Finance Director.