Nanci Sandoval, Umatilla city recorder since August 2014, was installed as the Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders president for 2023-24 during a banquet held Sept. 23 at Spirit Mountain Lodge, Grand Ronde.
City Manager David Stockdale said before she was nominated and took the oath of office, Sandoval was honored as the 2022 recorder of the year by her peers. Being selected as president of the statewide organization, Stockdale said, is worthy of praise.
“We should all be very proud that we are able to have Nanci, with her multi-faceted and ‘I can make that happen’ talents and attitude here in Umatilla,” he said. “It provides a heightened level of confidence from the community about the skills, talents and abilities of our staff.”
Sandoval said her responsibilities have changed as the city of Umatilla grows. In addition to creating city council packets and maintaining meeting minutes, she oversees elections, serves as the city’s public information officer, manages records and the city’s social media, creates newsletters and coordinates information technology, as well as other assigned duties.
Stockdale said Sandoval’s bilingual skills are especially helpful since nearly 50% of the city’s residents either report English as their second language or they don’t speak it at all. She ensures that documents are available in both English and Spanish.
“City recorders are the gatekeepers to not only records … but to several other laws related to cities,” he said. “Nanci is a natural-born community leader and a living testament of what perseverance, preparation and perspiration can yield for one’s self and for their community.”
Sandoval said her days are never dull and always filled with something different. She especially likes assisting each of the city’s departments.
“As a municipal recorder, I find great satisfaction in being at the heart of the administrative processes that keep our municipality running smoothly,” she said. “I enjoy the sense of responsibility and the opportunity to support the local community.”
While she doesn’t reside in Umatilla, Sandoval said she spends many hours in the town. She has coached in Umatilla and often recreates in the area, including fishing, kayaking, walking, playing softball or visiting and supporting the local businesses.
Sandoval is uncertain how much time serving as the association’s president will take. However, she said she is surrounded by dedicated individuals from across the state who are committed to working together.
“I am enthusiastic and grateful for the opportunity to serve the community and contribute to the growth and prosperity of Umatilla and the recorder profession,” Sandoval said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with the recorders around the state while continuing to focus on all the new things Umatilla is currently working on.”
