Newcomer Kayla Semmel is challenging Democrat incument Joann Behrens for the office of prothonotary.

The prothonotary’s office is responsible for and maintains the filings and records of civil actions on the first floor of the courthouse.

The county treasurer, controller, recorder of deeds, sheriff, prothonotary and clerk of courts will receive a 3 percent increase for an annual salary of $63,770 in 2020 and a 2 percent increase or a total of $65,045 in 2021.

We asked candidates to talk about the qualifications and priorities if elected. Here’s what they said.

Joann Behrens

Background: I am a lifelong resident of Carbon County, having graduated from Jim Thorpe Area High School in 1977. I’m married to Josiah “Cy” Behrens, Penn Forest tax collector, and together we have two children. I began my career in the prothonotary’s office as a clerk in 1979. I advanced through all the job positions in that office including acting Prothonotary in 1993. In 2003 I ran for, and was elected, prothonotary.

Q: What qualifies you for office?

A: With over 40 years of service in the prothonotary’s office and my working relationship with offices of the court, members of the bar and the general public, I am uniquely qualified to be the prothonotary of Carbon County. The knowledge I’ve gained through that service and the yearly continuing education I attend at the annual Prothonotaries & Clerk of Courts Conference is an asset only I can bring to the position.

Q: What are your top priorities if elected?

A: My top priorities are to continue to provide accurate documentation for the civil court system and to the degree possible under the law, provide assistance to anyone in need, and effectively run the office for each and every taxpayer. I will continue my efforts to efficiently run the office with a minimum of staff allowing my office to be self-supporting with fees collected at no cost to the county general fund.

Kayla Semmel

Background: I graduated magna cum laude from Moravian College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a certification in education. I was the poverty programs coordinator and trained student volunteers for programs such as the Bethlehem Emergency Homeless Shelter and New Bethany Ministries. After graduation, I returned to Carbon County and utilized my degree to serve the families in mental and behavioral health. I, husband Daniel, our daughter Zaviah and our two Pomeranians live in Mahoning.

Q: What qualifies you for office?

A: My education and management experience make me a well-rounded qualified candidate. I grew up in a family-owned small business, and the principles I’ve learned of hard work, integrity and accountability are ones I plan to bring to the office. I will be full time in the office when business is being conducted because being a hands-on leader is what makes an effective team. I am the motivated and dedicated choice for the job.

Q: What are your top priorities if elected?

A: I plan to utilize my management experience to improve the systems within the prothonotary’s office to make the services more convenient, accessible and efficient for the families and professionals of Carbon County through exploring e-filing and credit card payments. I’m also very passionate about creating a working environment that is held to the highest standards of integrity, commitment and respect for the families and professionals the office serves.