Shawndra Taggart, who has more than a decade of experience in the Jefferson County clerk’s office, officially announced her candidacy for reelection as Jefferson County clerk.
Taggart was first elected in 2016, running unopposed in the Jefferson County Democratic Primary. She again ran unopposed in the 2018 primary and was elected to a four-year term, following the passage of Issue 1 — a constitutional amendment approved by Arkansas voters to extend the terms of executive county officials from two to four years beginning in 2018.
“Her leadership has been marked by a commitment to operational efficiency, public service, and staff empowerment,” according to a news release.
Taggart, who began her service in 2004, has worked in every department of the clerk’s office, including serving as chief deputy county clerk.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“When I first announced my candidacy eight years ago, my focus was on improving the overall efficiency of operations within the office of the county clerk,” said Taggart. “I felt a sense of duty to implement changes that would empower our personnel to perform at higher levels, while providing citizens with the quality service they rightfully deserve — with greater efficiency.”
Throughout her tenure, Taggart has focused on boosting efficiency, reducing staff turnover, and improving office morale.
“Her efforts have contributed to a more responsive and effective office for both the judicial system and the citizens of Jefferson County,” according to the release.
A 1998 graduate of Pine Bluff High School, Taggart earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She also holds dual Master of Arts degrees in human resources management and business administration from Webster University.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Jefferson County,” she said. “If granted the opportunity to serve again, I will continue to work hard, serving the citizens with honesty and integrity, and continue pursuing improvements that enhance service delivery while reducing taxpayer cost.”
Taggart also listed her community and civic engagement experience including:
Board Member, Children’s Advocacy Center
Member, NAACP
Member, Jefferson County Democratic Women and Central Committee
Member, Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Club
Member, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Delta Omega Omega Chapter.
Taggart is a mother of two and a grandmother.