Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
SILVER LAKE - Citing stress, tension and feelings of mistrust from town council members, clerk-treasurer Fern Strong Tuesday, near the end of the council's meeting, announced her retirement, effective April 30.
Town council members Mabel Enyeart, Wilbur Brake and Stanley Williams said they had no prior indication of Strong's decision. She has been town clerk for 14 years.
Strong read from a letter addressed to Mike Miner, Kosciusko County Republican chairman, and recommended Teresa Howell, deputy clerk since 1990, as her replacement.
Enyeart assured Strong there were no feelings of mistrust.
"I trust you and I always have," the council president said.
"Well I feel you do mistrust me," Strong said.
Neither Williams nor Brake had any comment.
The clerk-treasurer's replacement will be decided by caucus.
