Welcome!
Year in Review:
2008
In reflecting on 2008 as my first
year as Recorder of Deeds, I think it is important to offer a report
on the status of office operations and upcoming matters of
significance:
·
We have cut our 2009
budget by 9% over previous year anticipated expenditures, and
without curbing any services to submitters and the public. Our
office continues to be self-reliant, and contributed over $ 2.3
million to the County’s general fund in 2008. We anticipate
contributing approximately $1.9 million in 2009.
·
During my first year, I
have accepted speaking engagements to various title insurance,
municipal, real estate and legal organizations, both in and beyond
Chester County. These speaking engagements offer submitters and the
public the opportunity to hear first-hand about the particulars of
the recording process in Chester County, and our continuous efforts
and focus on improvement.
·
Our website has been
expanded and now includes detailed information on obtaining a Name
Search Certificate, recording Military Discharge Documents,
registering to eRecord documents, and information on the process of
becoming a Commissioned Notary Public. The office also recently
published a FAQs guide offering basic information in an easy to read
Q&A style. These upgrades offer our submitters and the public easy
access to valuable information on recording in our county.
·
We have now completed
the upload of all previously recorded subdivision plans. This
project began in 2001, and has involved scanning over 20,000 plans
(dating back to 1905). These plans are available for viewing, as
digital files, readily accessed through the Record Search Library
computer system.
·
Perhaps most
significant for the long term, a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a
new recording system was drafted, finalized and issued this year by
our Office. As a further cost saving measure, the RFP was completed
in partnership with Lancaster County. Responses have been received
and the review process has begun. Further updates on the RFP will be
forthcoming in the next issue of Good Deeds.
On a personal note, my first year has
been a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. I especially thank
the staff (every single one of them!), and wish to extend all of
those who use the office a happy, healthy 2009.
Thank you and I look forward to
working with you during 2009,
Ryan Costello
Recorder of Deeds
Chester County, PA
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