10/22/2026
As printed in this week's North Cass Herald. Go get a copy and share this with your friends!
Why I'm Running for Cass County Recorder of Deeds
By Art Ruiz
I've spent decades working in Cass County as a Realtor, community volunteer, and Belton's Director of Economic Development, where I helped bring $75 million in new investment to our community. I know what it means to show up, work hard, and be accountable for results.
I'm running for Recorder of Deeds because I believe Cass County taxpayers deserve an elected official who makes this office their first priority.
Mike Medsker has held this position for nearly 16 years while also operating his own insurance agency. Running a successful insurance business takes considerable time and attention. So does serving as Recorder of Deeds.
The Recorder's position pays approximately $88,000 annually, with benefits bringing total compensation close to $100,000. Taxpayers have every right to ask whether they're receiving the full-time leadership they're paying for.
I've spoken with insurance agency owners who describe running their businesses as a full-time commitment. That raises a fair question: How does someone give both responsibilities the attention they deserve?
Scripture tells us in Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16:13 that no one can serve two masters. To me, the principle is simple. When you accept public office, the people who elected you must come first.
The North Cass Herald has also reported on financial difficulties involving Medsker's insurance business and the loss of his home through a sheriff's sale. I don't believe experiencing financial hardship makes someone a bad person. But I do believe elected officials owe the public transparency and accountability.
This campaign has also become personal for my family. While I was on vacation, my granddaughter called to tell me she'd been fired from her part-time job. She was told it was because I was running against Mike Medsker, a friend of her employer. Hearing my granddaughter say she'd lost her job because of my decision to run for office was heartbreaking. No one should have to pay a personal price for a family member's political involvement.
Exodus 20:16 reminds us, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor." I believe honesty, fairness, and decency should matter in politics just as much as they do in our personal lives.
As a lifelong Realtor, I understand the importance of accurate property records. I want to build on the Recorder's Office team's work, modernize older records, improve public access, and provide professional, dependable service.
I'm not running for a title or a second paycheck. I'm running to do the job.
And if the people of Cass County elect me, they won't have to wonder which job comes first.
