The Whatcom County auditor has hired a chief deputy, filling a position that had been vacant for almost a year.

Chief Deputy Auditor Diana Bradrick, who started Oct. 8, oversees day-to-day operations of the Auditor's Office, which administers elections, issues vehicle titles and registrations, and keeps property and marriage records. Bradrick's salary is $71,198 a year.

Auditor Debbie Adelstein was the last person to hold the chief deputy position, resigning at the end of 2011 after being elected auditor. Adelstein said she wanted to re-evaluate the position's duties before filling it.

Part of Bradrick's job will be to assume some of the responsibilities of Elections Supervisor Pete Griffin, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Bradrick worked most recently as department administrator in the Island County Auditor's Office.

Reach RALPH SCHWARTZ at ralph.schwartz@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2298.