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Clerk resigns over election debacle

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Contributed by: Lindy Eichenbaum Lent on 11/14/2006

Denver's Clerk and Recorder Wayne Vaden tendered his resignation to Mayor Hickenlooper today, effective Dec. 31 or upon the appointment of his replacement.

In response to the resignation, Mayor Hickenlooper issued the following statement:

"Wayne has been a valuable member of our team from the beginning. He dramatically reduced the backlog of title transactions waiting to be processed by the Clerk and Recorder's office. I hear regularly from local residents and the business community about how grateful they are for the enhanced customer service and expedited document processing times Wayne has introduced.
"I know that he has been frustrated by the difficulties he experienced at the Election Commission, and the manner in which he is accepting a share of responsibility without blaming others is a reflection of his strong character and commitment to Denver. We appreciate the service he has shown the city and wish him well in his future endeavors. In the meantime, we greatly appreciate his commitment to seeing the certification of this election through and offering support to our investigative panel."

__________________________________________________________

The following is the full text of Vaden's letter to Mayor Hickenlooper:

November 14, 2006

Dear Mayor Hickenlooper:

For the past three years it has been my honor to serve the citizens of the City and County of Denver as Clerk and Recorder and Public Trustee. I am particularly proud of the progress we have achieved in modernizing the Clerk and Recorder's office through the introduction of new technologies, which have increased efficiency and demonstrably improved service for our customers. It has also been my privilege to serve with so many dedicated men and women, in the Clerk's office and throughout the City, who server our citizens so ably every day.

Serving beside my colleagues in your administration has reinforced my belief that accountability is the underpinning of honorable public service. Consequently, I must also acknowledge personal disappointment over my efforts with the Denver Election Commission.

Serving as one of the three Denver Election Commissioners has proven to be a difficult and frustrating experience, which has led me to agree with the administration that a thoughtful and thorough re-examination of the entire organizational structure of the Denver Election Commission is essential. While it can be tempting to offer quick solutions, it is clear that the situation demands a more comprehensive approach. I will extend to the investigative panel any assistance or professional observations they might find useful.

I have also concluded that, although I am only one of three Denver Election Commissioners, I accept my fair share of responsibility for the problems experienced in the recent election. I hereby tender my resignation as Clerk and Recorder of the City and County of Denver, effective December 31, 2006 or upon the appointment of my replacement. Since the election Commission has not yet certified this election, I believe it is important that I remain until that task is completed.

It has been my privilege to serve you and the citizens of our great city. Thank you for providing me with this opportunity.

Sincerely,

Wayne Vaden

____________________________________________________________
Lindy Eichenbaum Lent is the communications director for the mayor's office

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