Boulder County has a critical election on Aug. 8 when voters will select their candidate for County Clerk and Recorder. I urge a vote for Hillary Hall.

I was Boulder County's Chief Deputy Clerk and Recorder under Charlotte Houston for 26 years. A large proportion of my time was spent planning for and directing election activities. I also had the privilege of working with other county clerks and their staffs and am well aware of what it takes to successfully lead this important office.

As everyone knows, the final results in the county's 2004 election were delayed for three days due to a myriad of problems in the clerk's office. The Boulder County Commissioners asked me to serve on an Election Review Committee (ERC) to offer recommendations so that such problems would not occur again. Our committee of nine members met for oversix months before issuing a final report.

The chair of the ERC, Dick Lyons, along with the otherfive members who are publicly supporting a candidate, are supporting Hall's candidacy.

Hall also served on the ERC, where she demonstrated a deep understanding of elections issues as well as the collaborative leadership and technical skills needed to successfully manage any organization.She has 20 years of management experience in the private sector including successfully leading a number of private enterprises.

Hall also has been committed to her community, most recently serving as one of the finest chairs the Boulder County Democratic Party has had. She recognizes the problems facing the county and she brings a fresh perspective and the strategies needed to solve those problems.

I know Hillary Hall; I know her opponent; and I know the issues we face. I am strongly supporting Hillary Hall for this critical office and hope you will join with me in electing her and restoring public trust and confidence in our local government.

Linda L. Flack,

Former Chief Deputy Boulder County Clerk & Recorder

Boulder