South Kingstown Appoints New Town Clerk

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The Town of South Kingstown officially has a new Town Clerk. The position was vacant after Dale Holberton stepped down after serving the town for more than 39 years.

On Tuesday, the town announced that Susan Flynn will take Holberton's place. Flynn has served as deputy town clerk for the past 20 years, and took over the position on Feb. 5.

According to the town charter, the Town Manager's selection must be approved by the town council. On Monday, the council unanimously voted in Flynn's favor.

As town clerk, Flynn is responsible for serving as the town council's clerk, clerk of the probate court and the clerk of the board of canvassers.

Town Manager Robert Zarnetske said Flynn was the most qualified candidate they considered.

"After reviewing the resumes submitted by candidates for the position and after discussing the role with Susan, I am absolutely certain that Susan is the best person for the job," he said. "In the time I have known her, Susan has shown a strong work ethic, a can-do attitude, and a great regard and respect for the public we serve. I am delighted that Susan has agreed to join the ranks of the Town’s senior management team."

Flynn graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in journalism and is a certified municipal clerk. She is also a member of the Rhode Island City and Town Clerk Association, the New England Association of City and Town Clerks and the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. She has worked in the South Kingstown town clerk's office since 1992.