The Town Clerk’s Office is central to the day-to-day operations of Burns town government. As a public office, the Clerk maintains official records, issues licenses and permits, supports transparency in governance, and ensures that essential documents are accessible to residents. Whether you’re looking for town laws, meeting minutes, or want to file a record, the Town Clerk is here to serve you.

By state law, the Town Clerk acts as the custodian of all town records, attends Town Board meetings, and ensures accurate documentation of proceedings and ordinances. The Clerk also issues licenses and handles filings required by law, helping ensure Burns operates with accountability and clarity.

Key Responsibilities

• Records & Archives — Custodian of all town records, books, maps, and official documents; maintains and preserves historical and active files.

• Town Board Clerk — Attends all Board meetings, records minutes, and enters local laws and ordinances into the official “ordinance book” immediately upon adoption. 

• Legal & Public Filings — Files all certificates, oaths, proofs of publication, petitions, resignations, local laws, and other documents required by town or state law. 

• Licenses & Permits — Issues licenses and permits under state or local law (e.g. dog licenses, marriage licenses, peddler permits, etc.), and collects fees as prescribed by law. 

• Financial Duties — Records daily receipts, deposits funds, disburses fees to appropriate taxing jurisdictions, and often acts as a cash control officer.

• Vacancies & Appointments — Notifies the county clerk of town office vacancies, files required certificates of appointment, and helps manage deputy appointments when needed. 

• Public Notices & Sign-Board — Maintains a sign-board (and electronic equivalent where applicable) at the Clerk’s office entrance for posting legal notices and official announcements. 

Working with You

The Clerk’s Office is your first point of contact for official documents, access to Town Board records, license applications, and certified copies. If you need a certified document, ordinance, or help navigating local filings, the Clerk is here to assist.

All requests are processed in accordance with New York State laws, and many documents may be obtained for a nominal fee or by following public records procedures.