A longtime employee has been appointed clerk for the Dawson County commission.

Danielle Yarbrough will assume the position previously held by Davida Simpson, who has accepted a role with the county's finance department.

Simpson will replace Sherry Boatfield, who is transferring to the county's human resources department.

All personnel changes will become official Jan. 1.

Commission Chairman Mike Berg congratulated the women on their promotions.

"Danielle brings many years of county experience and a wealth of knowledge," he said.

Yarbrough has been employed with the county since 1999, when she became a 911 dispatcher for the sheriff's office.

A year later, she was promoted to administrative assistant for then Maj. Kevin Tanner and was responsible for human resources and accounts payable for the sheriff.

Shortly after Tanner was named county manager, Yarbrough became his administrative assistant in that office.

"Danielle's background with the county and her education has well prepared her for the responsibilities of the county clerk," Tanner said. "She is both knowledgeable and capable and is an asset to the organization.

"This change will also aid in cost savings for the county by combining the positions of administrative assistant with county clerk."

The clerk is responsible for keeping records, maintaining and updating county codes, recording official minutes and corresponding on behalf of the commission.

She will continue in her duties as Tanner's administrative assistant.

Simpson served as interim clerk beginning in June 2007 and received a full-time appointment in September of the same year.

Berg said Simpson's transfer is a good fit for the county.

"Davida has done an outstanding job for the board of commissioners in the role of county clerk," he said.

"We are excited that she will be purchasing director, where she can expand her knowledge leading another department in our county."

In her new role, Simpson will oversee purchases and provide necessary support within county government to ensure the lowest possible costs while maintaining top service.