Will remain executive director of TRACF, Three Rivers school board member

Three Rivers City Clerk Melissa Bliss told Watershed Voice Wednesday she has taken a deputy clerk position in St. Joseph County’s General Clerks Division. Bliss’ resignation as city clerk was announced during Tuesday’s city commission meeting. Her last day will be January 8, 2021.

“I have truly enjoyed my time with the city and I am thankful for the many opportunities that were provided to me as the city clerk,” Bliss said. “Over the past 10 years (as of February), I have worked on a number of community related projects and I’m proud to have been a part of some really great volunteer groups. At this time, I’m ready to pursue other opportunities and I’ve accepted a position with the county that will assist me in growing my profession as a clerk.”

Bliss will work in vital records, and will start on January 11, 2021. “I look forward to working at a larger organization and learning more about the services that are provided at the county level.”

Bliss said she will also continue as executive director of the Three Rivers Area Community Foundation, and will also begin the new year as a member of the Three Rivers School Board. “I’m excited to serve the community in this new capacity.”

In an interview with Watershed Voice Wednesday, City Manager Joe Bippus said, “the city is sad to lose Melissa.” 

“She has been a vital member of our team and has accomplished a number of projects for the community. We look forward to working with her in her new capacity at the county.”

Bippus said the city will advertise to find Bliss’ replacement, and “hopefully that will be accomplished in early 2021.” 

“Melissa’s duties will be spread across a group of people at city hall during the transition period with Leslie Wilson delegating responsibilities as the need arises.”

Alek Haak-Frost is executive director of Watershed Voice.