Dowling to retire after 37-year career

HARTINGTON – With the arrival of 2024, Dave Dowling has decided to be the Cedar County clerk no more.

The Hartington man soon will retire from his longtime role after a 37-year career. A celebration in his honor has been scheduled for 2-4:30 p.m., Jan. 5, inside the district courtroom on the second floor of the county courthouse.

“I just thought it was time,” the 70-yearold Dowling said of stepping down from the position. “I turn 71 in February. I just thought that was long enough. I like what I’m doing. I’m probably going to miss it.”

His last day on the job is Jan. 9, which also marks the first meeting of the county commissioners in the new year.

“I’ll be at the board meeting that day,” Dowling said. “That’s the reorganization meeting. Then they’ll appoint my replacement that day, also.”

Jessica Schmit, a staff member hired in August to work for Dowling’s office, is set to be appointed as his replacement in the county clerk position and finish his current term, which runs through December 2026.

Deputy County Clerk Darla Frank was asked by the commissioners whether she wanted to take over the county clerk position after Dowling retired. She declined.

Once Dowling retires and Schmit becomes the county clerk, the employees working in the office will be Schmit, Frank, staff member Amy Kleinschmit and staff member Charlene Sudbeck.

Dowling officially took over the county clerk position Jan. 7, 1987, replacing Ed Stevens........

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