The democratic process is best served when voters have a choice in each race at the polls. That won’t be the case this year for the offices of Garfield County Clerk and Recorder, Assessor, and Coroner.

However, this newspaper feels complete confidence in endorsing the unopposed incumbents, all Republicans.

County Clerk and Recorder Mildred Alsdorf is seeking election to her seventh term in office. Jovial and cooperative, Alsdorf is dedicated to serving the public in an efficient and friendly manner. She has never faced a challenger because she does a darned good job.

County Assessor Shannon Hurst is facing voters for the first time, after winning appointment to the post in August 2001. But Hurst is no stranger to the office. She worked at almost every desk in the office for the previous 18 years. Hurst is hooked on information, and making it easily available to the public.

County Coroner Trey Holt is seeking his third term in office. Like Alsdorf, he’s never faced an opponent. As the owner of funeral homes in Glenwood Springs and Rifle, he’s in a natural position to serve as coroner, and his staff backs him competently.

No one is running for the county surveyor’s post, and it’s no wonder. The job calls for a lot of work and very little pay. The state Legislature should consider abolishing the elected office and allow county governments to contract for the service.

– Post Independent Editorial Board

Members of the Editorial Board are Publisher Valerie Smith, Managing Editor Heather McGregor and News Editor Dennis Webb.