Madison – Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today named Maribeth Witzel-Behl as Madison’s new City Clerk. Witzel-Behl, who currently serves as the Interim City Clerk, will replace Ray Fisher who retired earlier this year.

“Maribeth has done an outstanding job as Interim City Clerk, working to prepare us for a challenging new state election system while also making major improvements to the operations of the Clerk’s office,” said Cieslewicz. “She has the skills and vision to build on those efforts, and continue to modernize the operation of this vital part of city government.”

Witzel-Behl has served as Interim City Clerk since May. Prior to that, she worked as License Clerk in the City Clerk’s office for two years. Her background also includes seven years working as a legislative aide in the State Capitol.

“The City Clerk’s office is dealing with an unprecedented number of changes in state and federal law,” said Witzel-Behl. “I am honored to be entrusted with the responsibility of helping the City of Madison meet this challenge.”

The City Clerk’s office plays a key role in Madison city government. Its most important function is to conduct all of the city elections. This will be more challenging than ever this year due to shortcomings in the State’s new voter registration system being developed by Accenture. In addition to its election-related responsibilities, the office is also responsible for administering the City’s campaign finance and lobbying ordinances, as well as regulating a wide variety of City licenses.

Witzel-Behl’s appointment is subject to Common Council confirmation. Her salary will be $66,570 per year.