Byrum to take role as recorder

A new recorder has been selected.

Jay County Republican Party members appointed Angie Byrum as the next Jay County recorder Thursday.

She takes over the position from Melanie Upp, who has turned in her resignation Dec. 31. She will serve as recorder for the remainder of Upp’s term through the end of 2026.

She also plans to run for the role in the 2026 election cycle. 

“I think it’s a great honor to represent the Jay County residents, and I’m looking forward to it,” said Byrum, who has worked as Upp’s first deputy for the last three years.

Byrum has spent a decade working in Jay County Courthouse offices. She served two years in Jay County Assessor’s Office before shifting to Jay County Treasurer’s Office for five years.

She talked about hopes to encourage more residents to sign up for Doxpop’s Property Alert service, which notifies property owners any time a document is recorded that references their name or parcels they own. The alert system alerts a property owner so they can take legal action against property fraud. (Those interested can visit watch.doxpop.com to sign up or call the recorder’s office for more information.) 

Byrum filed for the position shortly after Upp’s announcement about her resignation last month. She was uncontested.

Several tables at John Jay Center for Learning were filled for the Jay County Republican caucus and meeting Thursday. Jay County Republican Party chair Jenae Blasdel said the turnout was the largest she had seen for a caucus to appoint one individual to office, noting the party’s support for Byrum was evident.

Also Thursday, Jay County Sheriff Ray Newton and Jay County auditor Emily Franks announced they will run for re-election in 2026. 

Blasdel also shared plans to host Republican Party election night festivities next year at Portland Elks Lodge.