Clerk of Courts Mary Smithson, Coroner Dr. Joe Campbell, Register of Wills Don Petrille and Treasurer Tom Panzer, all Republicans, announced that they would support each other through their party endorsement process and through the general election
By Tom Waring
The Times
Four incumbent Republican Bucks County row officers announced last week they would each seek re-election to their posts.
Clerk of Courts Mary Smithson, Coroner Dr. Joe Campbell, Register of Wills Don Petrille and Treasurer Tom Panzer announced in a joint statement that they would support each other through their party endorsement process and through the general election.
“Bucks County government is a model of efficiency and service that works for all of its citizens. This is a result of tireless efforts by hundreds of people, led by a team of dedicated elected officials committed each day to ensuring Bucks County’s well-being. The four of us bring our diverse backgrounds and experience to a team that has created, and now preserves, the quality of life that attracts people to Bucks County, and keeps us here,” the statement read.
“In order to keep Bucks County the best place to live, work and raise a family, we are proud to announce we are running for re-election in 2019. We will seek the Republican endorsement and nomination for our offices together as a team, and will continue to support our whole Republican ticket in this election. We are a proven team of leaders that has consistently delivered for Bucks County. We look forward to campaigning together and sharing our story about our accomplishments in county government.”
The primary election is May 21. The general election is Nov. 5.
The clerk of courts is responsible for handling all criminal filings in Bucks County and collecting restitution benefiting crime victims and their families.
The coroner is the chief medical examiner for Bucks County.
The register of wills and clerk of the Orphans’ Court is responsible for probating wills, collecting inheritance tax, issuing marriage licenses and processing guardianship and adoption cases. Bucks County’s register of wills office has seen an approximately 20 percent increase in cases since 2011, while decreasing expenses more than 13 percent.
The treasurer receives and disburses over $500 million toward all county government operations and helps to manage the $775 million retirement fund. The office also issues hunting licenses and dog licenses to the general public. ••
