Judith Wells will retire effective July 1 as Isle of Wight County’s treasurer after serving in the role for 20 years.

The treasurer is an elected officer required by the state constitution and tasked with collecting tax revenues and local fees. 

According to a county news release, Wells joined the Isle of Wight County Treasurer’s Office in 1984 and was first elected treasurer in 2003.

Under Wells’ leadership, the office has achieved and maintained accreditation from the Treasurer’s Association of Virginia since 2012.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve the people of Isle of Wight County as chief deputy and as treasurer since 1984,” Wells said. “Words cannot fully convey my appreciation for the many talented staff and chief deputy who worked tirelessly in conducting the duties of the office. I am forever grateful for having had this special privilege.”

According to Assistant County Administrator Don Robertson, a judge will likely appoint Chief Deputy Treasurer Dahlis Atkins in Wells’ place until the November election. Atkins has qualified to be on the ballot. No one else has filed qualifying papers.

Virginia law requires a nominating petition bearing the signatures of 125 registered voters in the county for a treasurer candidate to get their name on the ballot. The deadline to file the petition is June 20.