Local clerks honored during National Municipal Clerks Week

Last week, communities across the nation recognized the essential work of city clerks during the 56th annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week, celebrated May 4-10.  

Established in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan and reaffirmed by President Bill Clinton in the 1990s, the week celebrates the dedication and professionalism of municipal clerks. In Morgan County, the vital contributions of local clerks are being highlighted through stories of service, commitment and community. 

Dawn Estes, Falkville  

Estes

Falkville City Clerk Dawn Estes has held her position for more than 14 years. A Falkville native, Estes reflected warmly on the moments that make the job meaningful. 

“It’s in these simple, genuine moments that I’m reminded why I love what I do,” she said, citing community events such as the dedication of Jack McCaig Park and celebrations surrounding Mayor Ken Winkles’ recovery from a stroke. 

Estes, a former librarian, loves reading and treasures time with her husband, Neil, their three grown children, and her beloved Chihuahua, Ollie Bama. 

Kim Cryer, Eva  

Cryer

Adventurous and community-focused, Kim Cryer has served as Eva’s City Clerk since November 2024. She also volunteers with the local fire department and recently completed EMT training. 

Cryer shared a humorous moment about being sprayed while helping change a sewer pump, saying everyone “had a good laugh” about it. 

With eight children—and one more joining the family through marriage this fall—Cryer emphasizes service over routine. “You really need to do this job for the love of the community… I still learn something new every day,” she said.  

Regina Long, Somerville  

Regina Long

Regina Long has served the city of Somerville for more than 20 years as city clerk, court clerk and magistrate. She is especially proud of her role in restoring the historic Somerville Courthouse, the oldest original courthouse still standing in Alabama. 

She encourages new clerks to seek training and build relationships. “Above all, connect with the other clerks in our area. We have a great group who are always ready to help,” she said.  

Long enjoys gardening, spending time with her grandchildren, and taking road trips with her husband, Ray Long, who is the Morgan County Commission Chairman. The couple aims to spend a night in all 50 states. 

Rita Lee, Hartselle  

Rita Lee

With 24 years of service, Hartselle City Clerk Rita Lee was named Alabama Clerk of the Year in 2018. 

“I was honored just to be nominated by my district, but to win the statewide title was a very humbling yet proud moment,” Lee said. 

Lee advises others in the field to “develop a thick skin” and stay fair. “Not everyone is going to like you if you’re the rule enforcer,” she said.  

She enjoys reading, traveling, shopping, Alabama football and life with her daughter and three beloved cats. Though now in Hartselle, she regularly visits her family in Blount County. 

Shannon Weissend, Priceville  

Shannon Weissend

Priceville City Clerk Shannon Weissend has held her position for seven years, following a variety of roles within the city. She believes training is key to success. 

“Make sure to take advantage of any training opportunities that are offered,” she said. 

Weissend values the friendships she’s made with coworkers and finds joy in her family. Her daughter is studying to become a teacher, and she and her husband enjoy camping and watching their son play baseball. Their home is also shared with three dogs and a cat. 

Larry Madison, municipal attorney for Hartselle, Falkville and Eva, and municipal court judge for Somerville, offered praise for the dedication of Morgan County’s clerks. 

“These dedicated ladies strive diligently every day to serve our local governments as well as the public,” Madison wrote. “They serve a vital role in municipal administration… These ladies are truly deserving of our highest praise and deepest appreciation. I know they have mine.” 

Municipal Clerks Week offers a moment for communities to thank the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep local government running smoothly.