MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Tone deaf, out of touch, uncaring, lack of empathy: all are terms often used to describe someone holding an important position but just doesn’t get it. And all of them accurately describe embattled Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert.
I have done at least three commentaries in recent weeks about Halbert and the operational mess in her office – a mess that has resulted in unreasonable delays in processing new license tags and renewals. I thought things had reached rock bottom when Halbert closed the offices for a week to catch up on the backlog.
But Monday, rumors were confirmed that Halbert is on vacation in Jamaica, and everyone should be incensed. The Tennessee Comptroller’s Office confirmed that Halbert is AWOL, and the trip shows an incredible lack of leadership and concern. Comptroller Jason Mumpower even said Halbert’s vacation speaks to the insincerity of her apologies and damages her credibility. You think?
I said last week, and I say again - it’s time to seriously discuss removing Halbert from office. I don’t say that out of meanness, but in the public interest. She has shown once and for all an inability to handle the responsibilities of a vital public service job. Whether her removal is through a recall or an ouster suit, all avenues must be considered despite her reelection three weeks ago.
The clerk’s office needs what it currently does not have: competent leadership.