McLean County Recorder Lee Newcom said the county won't save the money it expects to by eliminating the recorder position. (Photo by Laura Ewan/WJBC)

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON - McLean County Recorder Lee Newcom said he was surprised that county voters chose to eliminate his position, though he contends that supporters of the plan mischaracterized the issue.

"I know exactly how to make my office run at light speed and there are 1.5 positions in the office you can eliminate... but our records (will be) junk," Newcom said.

Newcom said the county won't save the money that county officials claim. County administrator Bill Wasson had estimated that the county could save up to $100,000 per year by have the county clerk's office assume the recorder's office duties.

Newcom said the county will have to hire an administrator to work under the county clerk - a position he would have no interest in.

"No, I wouldn't work with (County Clerk) Kathy (Michael). We're oil and water in terms of the kind of people we are and the kind of politicians we are," Newcom said.

Michael and Newcom are both Republicans.

Michael said the clerk's office will take the recorder's duties seriously and she's not sure whether she will need to add staff.

Newcom says he did not expect voters would eliminate his position.

"I've got a terrific record and everyone knows this office I took over was a absolute train wreck when I took over and now it runs perfectly. I (thought) I was pretty safe in this election, Who could have guessed that a year later it could all come apart?" Newcom said.

PODCAST:  Listen to Lee Newcom's interview on WJBC

The clerk's office will assume responsibilities for the recorder's office at the end of 2013.

Newcom said he didn't know what he would do after his position is eliminated.

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.