POTSDAM, New York (WWNY) – After 15 years as court clerk for the town of Potsdam, Sherri Snyder has resigned.

“I’m discouraged with the town of Potsdam,” Snyder said.

Her resignation was accepted at the town’s most recent board meeting and took effect last week. Her letter thanked colleagues and co-workers but also said: “As far as the town, I would like to thank you for the free heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, migraines, unfair wages, and a hostile work environment. That won’t be missed.”

Wage concerns cited

Snyder said wage increases for court clerks in recent years have not kept pace with other town positions, adding they have not seen a pay hike since 2024.

“Our wages were not showing the same increases as brand new employees with zero experience and outsourcing their jobs. It just saddens me that dedicated employees get overlooked,” Snyder said.

She said contract offers made were discouraging, and she feels her union let her down. She also said she paid more for health insurance than other town employees.

“I had the same health coverage and have for years as the Teamster male union counterparts, and I pay double for the same health coverage. And it’s not all about money, but fair treatment is essential in a workplace,” Snyder said.

The town’s response

When asked about the difference in health insurance costs Monday, town Supervisor Marty Miller was not able to definitively say why Snyder would be paying more. He said different health plans offered by Teamsters come with different prices.

Miller thanked Snyder for her years of work and said he wishes her well in future endeavors. He said he hopes the town and court clerks can come to an agreement soon.

“We just haven’t met what their needs are right now, according to them, but it’s a work in progress, and that’s why it’s negotiations,” Miller said.

Deputy court clerk Margaret Brusso has taken over Snyder’s role.