It was with great interest that I read the letter from Nancy Workman, candidate for Salt Lake County recorder (Forum, Aug. 15). The contents of Workman's letter made two issues very clear.
First of all, she has a very limited knowledge of SB87. If anything, this legislation creates specific guidelines for the filing and enforcement of mechanics and materialmens liens on owner-occupied single-family residences. This provides an additional means of protection for the property owner against unscrupulous contractors and suppliers.Second, and most important, Workman shows a total lack of familiarity with Utah Code Annotated 17-21-6, General Duties of County Recorders. Nowhere in the code is a county recorder charged with being, nor are they empowered to be, a "full-time watchdog and work at protecting title to our property." If this were the case, it would stand to reason that the county governments would also assume the liability for affording such protection to the public. It is highly unlikely that any county government is willing to accept such a responsibility. The code is very specific. The essence of the county recorder's office is to record and index documents relating to real property.
The task of interpreting the content of public records and providing real property title protection is the function of real estate attorneys, title insurance agents and underwriters, and other real estate professionals.
Perhaps Workman is confused as to the job description for the office she is seeking.
R. Bruce Hancey
Vice president, Founders Title Co.