There is a new clerk in Alger County.

Joel VandeVelde was sworn into the position by 11th Circuit Court Judge Brian Rahilly at the Alger County Courthouse on Tuesday, May 30. He replaces retired clerk Mary Ann Froberg in the role.

“I look forward to doing the best job I can,” VandeVelde said to a small crowd of friends, family and county staff. “I’m open to suggestions and want to work with everybody.”

VandeVelde served over eight years as the deputy clerk under Froberg and was responsible for a number of administrative procedures at the courthouse. He was often involved in a number of administrative and human resources roles for the county on top of more traditional clerk responsibilities like birth records and elections.

Rahilly selected VandeVelde after a number of applicants applied for the clerk position.

“He’s extremely qualified and heavily recommended by his coworkers,” Rahilly said.

VandeVelde had his first day in the role on Thursday, June 1.