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Clerk of Courts for Rock County wins re-election

JANESVILLE — Rock County Clerk of Courts Eldred Mielke said he is ready to get back to work for four more years.

"I'm glad the voters accepted me," Mielke said. "I appreciate them showing their confidence in me to return me back to the office."

In Tuesday's election, incumbent Democrat Mielke, 73, of 10323 N. Highway 26, Milton, defeated Republican challenger Kerry Schlittler, 52, of 17907 W. Highway 11, Brodhead.

Mielke has held the office since being elected in 1996. Schlittler is a Rock County sheriff's sergeant.

The clerk of courts office keeps and maintains the books and records of the small claims, civil, criminal, traffic, family, juvenile and probate actions as directed by state statutes.

Mielke said he wants to keep a quality staff, help judges and provide good customer service in his next term. He said he looks forward to going to work every day.

"Right now, I'm just glad that the election went my way," Mielke said.

Mielke campaigned on the idea that organizing the court files to help people find open records was his top priority. He also said helping judges is important. He touted his experience in the office throughout his campaign.

Schlittler campaigned on the ideas of improving the office's technology and productivity. He touted his management experience and education. He said the office needed to be more efficient to save tax dollars.

Days before the election, a memo to Rock County employees was sent to remind them that political activity is banned during working hours. Officials said the memo was sent after a letter supporting Mielke circulated in his office.

A clerk of courts employee was asking co-workers to sign a letter to the editor supporting Mielke, officials said.

Mielke said he didn't know anything about the letter. No grievance was filed regarding the activity, and no one has been disciplined.

Political activity is not allowed during working hours to protect employees from feeling pressured to vote a certain way, especially if they work in an office with an elected official in charge.