By Maureen Tobin , Communications and Engagement Director

n December 9 , 2020 , the City of Morgan Hill ‘ s first appointed city clerk took the Oath of Office . Since the City ’ s incorporation in 1906 , Morgan Hill has had an elected city clerk something that was common in the past . In 2018 the residents of Morgan Hill voted to change the city clerk position from elected to appointed . This change ensures that the person filling the city clerk role will have the certifications , experience , and technical knowledge that have become critical for this key role . With the term of the previous elected city clerk ending in December of 2020 , the decision was made to appoint Michelle Bigelow as Morgan Hill ’ s first appointed city clerk .

Michelle has worked for the City of Morgan Hill since 2008 when she started as an office assistant II in the Building Department . Over the past 13 years , Michelle has worked diligently to qualify for several promotions . During this same time , she has become a valued City teammate and a community resource . Often in the background and never motivated for recognition ,

Michelle focuses to do the right thing for the Morgan Hill community . Most recently , Michelle has served the community as the council services and records manager / deputy city clerk , assuming most of the city clerk responsibilities over the past few years .

“ This change ensures that the person filling the city clerk role will have the certifications , experience , and technical knowledge that have become critical for this key role .”

While working full time and raising her two sons , Michelle worked hard to obtain three certifications which are recognized as the gold standard in the city clerk field : Certified Municipal Clerk , Master Municipal Clerk , and California Professional Clerk Certification . Michelle also serves as the Region 14 Director for the City Clerks Association of California , a role that allows her to provide leadership for the region , coordinate training opportunities , and mentor her peers working to obtain their certifications .

Michelle has played a key role in many important city initiatives such as transitioning to City Council districts , Engage Morgan Hill , the City website refresh … just to name a few . Most recently she has been providing support for the communication and engagement function with a specific focus on improving the City ’ s process for informing and engaging its residents about development projects , a process that the Morgan Hill community has loudly demanded must change .

Michelle ’ s formal responsibilities include being the elections official , a legislative administrator , and the City ’ s records manager always ensuring transparency to the public . However , what will likely be most noted and appreciated by Morgan Hill residents is Michelle ’ s passion for working with and engaging the community . Morgan Hill is fortunate to have Michelle Bigelow as its first appointed City Clerk .

GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN WINTER 2021 gmhtoday . com

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