With her friends and family by her side, Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk Melissa Harrell (R – Murfreesboro) announced on October 14 her plans to seek re-election. Harrell has served Rutherford County the last eight years as Circuit Court Clerk and has since turned over $5 million in excess fees for Rutherford County.

 

“Rutherford County is my home, and I am humbled for the opportunity to give back as Circuit Court Clerk. Together, our office has worked incredibly hard to become more efficient and keep Rutherford County open for business. Our work is far from complete, and I hope to work over the coming four years to keep the momentum we have worked hard to build,” said Harrell.

 

Prior to her time in the Court Clerk’s office, Harrell owned her own small business for twenty-four years. When asked about her motivation to first seek public office, Harrell alludes to her late father and brother’s impact on her life. “In the top right corner of my campaign logo, there are a set of angel wings,” stated Harrell. “Those are symbolic of my father and brother who may not be here with us anymore, but who showed me the value of hard work, and I believe would be so proud to see the work I’m doing for our county. I do all that I do for my family and hope to leave this community better than I found it, as they did for me.”

 

As Circuit Court Clerk, Harrell has led several initiatives resulting in more efficient processes and better customer service. An updated computer system saved Rutherford County $2 million in collected fees and operating expenses, combined with new internal control procedures to safeguard the county’s money have Harrell’s office consistently operating under budget. The Comptroller of the Treasury has consecutively reported a clean audit for the Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk’s office under the leadership of Melissa Harrell. Something that no other clerk has achieved in 30 years prior to her election.

 

In an ever-growing county, office management and control are crucial to success and financial stability. Harrell saw the need for change and has continued to deliver for Rutherford County. She cleaned up internal control procedures by adapting a top-tier statewide court computer system used by over 85 counties to streamline local government and save Rutherford County money while protecting against fraud. Her office also worked to publish a web inquiry system offered to the county free of charge to locate case information and updates on court dates, costs, etc..

 

“I plan to continue the momentum over the next four years when I am re-elected. I am always accessible and would certainly appreciate your support at the polls.” Harrell concluded in her remarks on Thursday night.

 

Early Voting for the 2022 Rutherford County is April 13 – April 28, and the Primary Elections are held on May 3, 2022. The deadline to register to vote is on April 4, 2022. For more information on elections and voter registration, please visit http://election.rutherfordcountytn.gov/am-i-registered.