Northampton County Loses a Centurion

Ann Achatz

Widely considered considered one of the world's most brilliant military tacticians, Gaius Julius Caesar regularly screwed things up. When he landed in Britain, for example, nearly all the ships carrying him and his troops were destroyed, cutting off supplies and making quick evacuation impossible. He nevertheless always came out on top in any martial adventure. His legionnaires, often outnumbered and hungry, fought like hell, probably harder than any army. They adored him, and the feeling was mutual. He may not have been very familiar with the tribunes and legates at the top of his many legions, but knew every centurion by name. He understood that centurions, or middle managers, are the ones who make things happen. Every good officer knows that sergeants run an army. And on the County level, it's the row officers and division heads. Northampton County says good-bye to one of these centurions today.

Ann Achatz has spent the last 38 years working in the Recorder of Deeds Office. Since 1989, she's been the Recorder. She's worked under each of the County's six Executives, as well as three different Recorders. She's even put up with me, which is no easy feat.

Ann was instrumental in implementing a state-of-the-art electronic recording system called LANDEX. Over forty counties now use that system, widely regarded the best in the state.

She modernized the office, with an emphasis on making it as user friendly as possible. Many older record books have been scanned and are available on computer. In addition to making things easier for searchers and the public, this has conserved space.

She came up with the idea of charging $10 for a parcel check on every document recorded. This resulted in $400,000 pouring into County coffers last year. It will be more this year.

This reduces the need to generate revenue through real estate taxes.

"There have been many challenges, ups and downs," states Ann. "I have met many wonderful people who have supported me during my career and will miss each and every one of them."

The feeling is mutual, Ann.

Ann lives in Forks Township with her husband, John, and two very unusual cats.

Ann will be succeeded by her Chief Deputy, Andrea Suter. Although Director of Court Services Archie D'Isidore stated he might apply for the job, he never did. Suter will be sworn in on Thursday.

I'd say that Andrea has some big shoes to fill, but Ann's feet are only about four inches long.

If you have a chance, stop by and say good-bye to Ann today.