SchmokinJoe asks Genevieve Serna…

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Your Advertisement on the Radio for the Humboldt County Office of Elections

Hi Genevive, I heard a Public Service Announcement that you did on behalf of your job at the Humboldt County Office of Elections that provided listeners with information about voting. Could you explain how your role in the Humboldt County Office of Elections effects your role as a candidate and as an elected official. This provides an opportunity for voters to hear your name and relate to elections, even if it is not explicitly about the election you are running in. How do you keep your responsibilities as a candidate and your responsibilities as a public servant in the office of elections seperate?  Can you provide us with your ethical and legal viewpoint in this instance?

— SchmokinJoe

Response

Genevieve Serna

Thank you for this question. In addition to the many hats I wear, I am currently an Administrative Analyst with the County Office of Elections. While there is no legal provision prohibiting a County Employee from running for a public office there are a number of activities in my role that I’ve recused myself from during the election period to maintain an appropriate separation. These include limiting my role in processing ballots and abstaining from representing my office at outreach events in Arcata. Additionally the county office does not have a role in filing candidacy or financial paperwork for city offices. All of my filings as a candidate were handled only through the Arcata City Clerk. Our Office and myself as both a candidate and public servant are fully committed to an elections process that is built on the highest level of integrity and trust. www.SernaForArcata.com