10/04/2026
Hi everyone! Today I wanted to share a little bit of who I am and why I'm running for Val Verde County District Clerk.
I am a proud wife, a proud mother of three and a lifelong Val Verde County resident. I have dedicated over 15 years to public service, including 11 years with the District Clerk’s Office and over 4 years with the County Auditor’s Office.
I am running because I believe our community deserves accountability, accuracy and service you can count on. I want to bring those values into the District Clerk’s Office so our judges, attorneys and especially the people of Val Verde County are better served.
A little about my journey...
I graduated from Del Rio High School in 2003 and was fortunate to receive a softball scholarship. That scholarship allowed me to continue playing the sport I love while pursuing my education. I graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, with the goal of working in social services.
After college, I began my career as a mental health case manager. At the time, it was MHMR, now known as Hill Country MHDD Centers. That experience allowed me to serve people through crisis intervention, support services and by helping individuals and families through some of the hardest moments in their lives. It taught me the importance of compassion, patience, listening and treating every person with dignity.
After becoming a first-time mom, I knew I needed to make a career change so I could be more present for my daughter. That decision led me to the District Clerk’s Office.
I accepted a part-time position, thinking it would only be temporary. I ended up loving the work and realized I could still help people, just in a different way.
Over my 11 years there, I worked my way up from a part time clerk to Chief Deputy. I gained firsthand experience in the daily operations of the office, including maintaining official court records, processing civil and family cases, jury management, court fees and payments, registry accounts, court costs, legal processes, reporting, and working closely with judges, attorneys, law enforcement and the public.
In 2021, I was given the opportunity to join the County Auditor’s Office. It was a big change, but I was ready to grow professionally and expand my knowledge. I am truly grateful for that opportunity because I believe it has made me even more prepared to lead the District Clerk’s Office.
In my current role, I review what county departments collect, make sure funds are properly reported and verify deposits with the Treasurer’s Office. I also prepare audit reports for Commissioners Court and provide findings, observations and recommendations when needed. I have gained additional experience with budgets, expenditures and financial accountability.
Having experience in both the District Clerk’s Office and the Auditor’s Office has given me a perspective that I believe is valuable. I understand how the District Clerk’s Office operates, and I also understand the importance of accountability, accuracy, transparency and proper reporting.
Outside of work, my family, faith, and commitment to serving others are important parts of who I am. I have volunteered as a youth sports coach in volleyball, basketball and softball. Coaching has given me the opportunity to mentor young athletes, teach teamwork and encourage them to work hard and believe in themselves.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know a little more about me, my experience and why I am running. I hope to earn your trust, support and vote. ❤️
Mary Jane Ross
Candidate for Val Verde County District Clerk