Oktibbeha County supervisors will discuss the vacant chancery clerk’s position at its Monday meeting, but they will likely delay appointing an interim clerk until after funeral services for Monica Banks, who had held the position for the past 20 years.
Banks, 58, died Friday at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle in Columbus after an extended illness, Lowndes County Coroner Greg Merchant said.
District 1 Supervisor John Montgomery, District 2 Supervisor Orlando Trainer and District 4 Supervisor Bricklee Miller all acknowledged the need to appoint an interim soon. The trio, however, said they would prefer to wait at least a week until making such an appointment as a way to honor Banks and show her family respect as it grieves.
“There has to be a succession in all forms of government, from the president on down. There does need to be that discussion, but we need to pay our respects first,” Montgomery said. “Monica was a joy to work with and always had a smile on her face. My heart goes out to her family, and we’ll truly see what she meant to this county in her absence.”
Supervisors are expected to name an interim clerk this month, and a special election to permanently fill the position could follow within a year.
Miller, Montgomery and Trainer also said Sharon Livingston, a deputy clerk over land records, is a likely interim replacement for Banks, as Livingston stepped in for Banks in times of absence and during board meetings.
All three supervisors, however, tempered their comments by saying any interim candidate must be motioned forward by a board member and approved with a majority vote.
“Our county lost a dedicated public servant and pioneer that helped pave the way for women in government. For all that knew Mrs. Banks, who were inspired by her example and who share the passion for service guided her every day she lived, I ask you to keep the family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve the loss and honor the memory of this cherished lady,” Miller said. “Sharon has been there a long time and has the experience. Right now, that’s what the office needs.”
The Dispatch could not reach Livingston by press time.
The chancery clerk’s office closed Friday after employees learned of Banks’ passing. Trainer said it is unlikely the office will re-open Monday.
Banks was the first African-American elected to a countywide office in Oktibbeha County. She had served as chancery clerk since 1996.
The Oktibbeha County Federation of Democratic Women and the Mississippi Democratic Party issued statements Friday describing Banks as a trailblazer of local politics for both African-Americans and women.
“Oktibbeha County and the state lost a friend today,” the Mississippi Democratic Party’s statement read. “Monica leaves a legacy to be cherished and remembered often.”
Century Hairston Funeral Home is handling Banks’ arrangements.
Carl Smith covers Starkville and Oktibbeha County for The Dispatch. Follow him on Twitter @StarkDispatch
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