Portsmouth Appoints Town Clerk On Permanent Basis

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Town Clerk Jennifer West was appointed to the job on a permanent basis at Monday's town council meeting.

The council took no time to discuss West's appoint before the vote. Her appointment was unanimously approved.

“I would consider this the world’s longest [job] interview,” Town Administrator Richard Rainer said before the vote. “She’s passed.”

Previously, the town clerk for Porstmouth was decided by voters. In the November, 2016 election, residents approved a ballot measure which made the position appointed rather than elected. West defeated incumbent Joanne Mower in that same election.

Previously, the town clerk position held a two-year term. With the term up, town officials needed to make the decision.

West at the meeting told Newport Daily News she's happy with the decision and hopes she does a good enough job that residents would have voted for her anyway.

“I’m glad all are pleased with the work that I’ve been doing. I’m looking forward to being a permanent staff member, not having to be the only elected official in (Town Hall) anymore,” West told Newport Daily News.

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