As the Barrington Township Clerk, Dan Fitzgerald has made the branch of government closest to the people more effective and transparent while delivering better results.

The Township Clerk is often viewed as the minute-taker, but their role in our Township Board meetings goes beyond that. Dan helps keep the order of the meetings, explains votes and procedures, and ensures every detail from the meeting is noted because taxpayers deserve to know what they’re getting from their government. Having previously served as a Township Trustee, Dan saw how the meetings could be run more smoothly and knew how the minutes could be improved for more transparent viewing by residents.

The Township Clerk isn’t a position the public often deals with, but it plays a vital role in how effective and transparent our township government runs on behalf of taxpayers. The Township Clerk is the local official who keeps the “trains on schedule,” responds to FOIA requests, and provides residents information on elections. They must be organized, articulate, and punctual.

Having such a crucial role, Dan is committed to being Township Clerk and doesn’t miss meetings. He’s always available and accessible, and works proactively to remind Board Members and the public what is coming next so everyone is prepared. The Township Clerk has no voting rights—it’s about getting things done for residents, not getting involved in politics.

As Township Clerk, you must also be able to pivot when unexpected things arise and Dan’s experience has given him the confidence to lead no matter the situation. In one instance, for example, a Board Member wanted to call a special meeting to address a sensitive issue. It’s the Township Clerk’s role to coordinate such a meeting with the Township Supervisor and Trustees, which Dan did expeditiously.

Dan has become a trusted local leader who helps our Township Board meetings run smoothly, while also providing the public with the pertinent information they need to know from each meeting. In his role as Township Clerk, he is also the go-to person for answering questions about upcoming elections. Dan has made it easier for residents to find out how to register to vote, where to vote, and when early voting and Election Day voting is available.

Since becoming Township Clerk, Dan has increased and improved communication to residents. Dan’s succinct and clear meeting minutes allow taxpayers to know what is occurring at board meetings. And he provides updates to residents through the quarterly Barrington Township Reporter newsletter.