Passport Applications Will No Longer Be Processed Locally –
State Department Says No Need
Marshfield, MO — 01/17/2023 — The Webster County Recorder of Deeds office was notified by the Department of State today that there is not enough demand to continue to offer Passport Processing services at the courthouse.
Passport processing had been provided by the Circuit Clerk’s office but they discontinued at the end of December. The Webster County Commission and Stan Whitehurst, Webster County Clerk had asked incoming Recorder of Deeds Stacy Atkison if his office would be willing to provide the service. All of the above-mentioned elected officials wanted to keep the service local for our citizens. According to the state department, this is not feasible. See the reply dated 01/17/2023:
“Based on the volume of passport applications accepted in your surrounding area and the current availability of acceptance facilities, it has been determined that there would not be justification to designate a new facility at this time. The facility you are requesting to replace issued 161 applications in 2022. 2022 issuance data for the closest facility, which is located within 25 miles of your office, showed that facility issued 221 applications. The second closest facility, which is located within 31 miles of your office issued 82 applications in calendar year 2022.
Passport Services only designates new facilities in areas where a critical need has been identified, because of the expenses associated with the designation of new acceptance facilities (administration, training, and oversight).
We sincerely appreciate your interest in the program. If there is a change in circumstances in your area, please re-submit your request for consideration.
Thank you,
Deborah W Lemoine
Customer Service Manager”
The Webster County Recorder’s office will continue to monitor the situation.
