The City of Greenwood was well represented at the 92nd Annual Arkansas Municipal League Conference as Greenwood City Clerk/Treasurer Sharla Derry returned home with multiple certifications, leadership appointments, and one of the state’s highest honors for municipal clerks.
Derry announced that she received her Master Arkansas Municipal Clerk certification during the conference, a designation recognizing advanced education and professional achievement in municipal government. She also completed the requirements for Level III Advanced Arkansas Municipal Education Certification through the Arkansas Municipal League.
Adding to the list of accomplishments, Derry was elected Vice President of the Arkansas City Clerks, Recorders and Treasurers Association (ACCRTA), further expanding her leadership role within the organization.
The conference’s most prestigious moment for Derry came when she was named Arkansas Clerk of the Year for 2026.
“I was so humbled and grateful to receive Arkansas Clerk of the Year — an achievement that has me floating on cloud nine,” Derry said.
While the duties of a city clerk often take place behind the scenes, Derry explained that the role is vital to the operation of local government.
“I think the gist can be summed up that a clerk works to preserve a city’s operational history while also doing anything possible to make sure the entity is following the law, both the state’s and its own local laws,” she said. “It’s a big task, a big ask, and is often contentious. It takes bravery and thick skin.”
City clerks serve as record keepers for municipal government, maintaining official documents, preparing agendas and minutes, administering elections, overseeing records retention and helping ensure compliance with state laws and local ordinances.
Derry credited those who came before her for helping pave the way.
“Overflowing thanks I extend to those that paved these paths to show us that it can be done and is worth doing,” she said.
Greenwood Mayor Doug Kinslow was also recognized during the conference as he concluded his term as president of the Arkansas Municipal League. Derry praised Kinslow’s leadership and his efforts to showcase Greenwood on the statewide stage.
“Big kudos to our Mayor Doug Kinslow for making his year as the League’s president a memorable and fun one that reflected so glowingly on our city and area of the state,” Derry said.
Reflecting on the conference and the recognition received by Greenwood officials, Derry expressed gratitude to the citizens who entrusted them with public service.
“Greenwood has been well represented, I assure you,” she said. “We thank the voters for placing trust in us that we have been the right choice.”
The achievements mark a significant milestone for both Derry and the City of Greenwood, highlighting the city’s continued involvement and leadership within municipal government across Arkansas.
