The Massachusetts primary is next Thursday, Sept. 8. Four candidates are running in the Democratic primary for Register of Deeds; a fifth independent candidate will appear on the November general election ballot. The Gazette emailed customized questionnaires to each announced candidate for office asking them to answer two general questions: why Martha’s Vineyard voters should elect them and what their qualifications were for office. County office candidates were also asked why the job they are seeking should matter to local voters.

Laura Johnson Hairston
Oak Bluffs Democrat Statement
Register of Deeds Candidate

Statement

I would be honored if Dukes County voters elected me. I have 23 years of professional experience relative to the Registry. I will leverage my experience in technology, project management, process management, finance and leadership development to effectively transition to the Registry. I am a hands-on leader committed to becoming thoroughly knowledgeable in all aspects of the Registry. I am committed to excellence, accurate and timely execution and providing outstanding customer service. My years of professional experience have prepared me to support this vital service to the residents of Dukes County. I will engage my team and the public, collaborate with my Registry peers and stakeholders to identify additional opportunities and best practices. I will lead, foster communication and inclusion while upholding the trust and confidence the voters instilled in me. I commit to serve and protect the integrity of the records entrusted to me. I would be honored to have your vote.

Qualifications

I have a bachelor of arts in English from the University of Virginia and a master’s certificate in project management from George Washington University. I have over 20 years of senior leadership experience. In my former roles, I developed and executed innovative plans supporting resource, data, budget, operational, and technological challenges. My focus always was providing the customer with the very best product and service possible, in a timely and accurate manner. Most of the projects I supported were process oriented. Collaboration is very important to me. My goal was always to have open lines of communication with my team, cross-functional partners, as well as, customers. I met or exceeded my budget goals and schedules demands. Invested in my employees’ development and careers. A leader is only as successful as her team. I am currently raising my children and have been working as a real estate manager since 2008. I have worked in the community as a volunteer throughout my life.

Importance of Registry

Voters should care about the Registry of Deeds. It documents your proof of ownership and safe guards your asset. It identifies you as the rightful owner and protects your rights. Whether there is a deed, mortgage, or lien it identifies who has a true interest in the land or priority if there is a lien. It is in your best interest and the generations that follow to get a copy of your deed referencing your book and page number from the Registry. This is your proof of ownership and peace of mind. You will save yourself a lot of time and money in the future. You will avoid a possible legal battle to secure what is yours. The Registry will have a permanent record of your property rights. There is a team waiting and willing to help you in the Registry. I would greatly appreciate your vote and the opportunity to be there to assist you as Register of Deeds.