Recorder resigns

Jay County Recorder Melanie Upp is resigning.

Upp recently alerted officials to her plans to leave office, with her last day set for Dec. 31. Her term isn’t set to expire until the end of 2026.

She cited ongoing health issues as her reason for resigning from the role. She talked positively about working with the public over the last three years, saying she’s enjoyed it immensely.

“I appreciate the support of all the voters, and I just thank them for helping me to be able to enjoy my job,” she said.

She also spoke highly of her first deputy Angie Byrum and part-time clerk Laura Ferguson, saying she’s been blessed to have them.

Jay County Republican Party Chair Jenae Blasdel emailed notice of a caucus to fill the vacancy Tuesday morning. Plans are to host a Republican caucus at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at John Jay Center for Learning to elect a new recorder.

Upp recommended Republicans elect Byrum to fill the role, saying she knows every step of the job. She and Byrum have worked together at Jay County Courthouse since Upp took office.

“She’s more than qualified to do it,” said Upp. “When we came in here, we had an agreement that I would know everything she did, and she would know everything I did so we could work well together. And that’s what we’ve done.”

Upp’s term has been highlighted by a partnership with Doxpop for its Property Alert service, which began in early 2024. The service alerts property owners any time a document is recorded that references their name or parcels they own. 

She talked at that time about a problem with fraudulent deeds being created and recorded, causing property owners to lose their land without notice. Doxpop’s Property Alert service allows users to sign up for notifications — options include a text message or email, as well as providing information to their county recorder — when their name or property is officially recorded. The alert system serves to quickly alert a property owner so they can take legal action against property fraud. Simultaneously, it also allows property owners to know when other legitimate documents have been filed in relation to their property. (Those interested may visit watch.doxpop.com to sign up or call the recorder’s office for more information.) 

Upp’s term was also dampened by a major water leak in the courthouse — it stemmed from deteriorated pipes on the third floor — in September 2024. The resulting water damage forced her office to relocate to Jay County Commissioners’ room on the second floor for several months while repairs were made.