EXCELSIOR SPRINGS – Clay County Deputy Assessor Tracy Baldwin, 48, Kearney, a Republican, plans to step into the seat being vacated by his boss, Cathy Rinehart, a Democrat. Bruce Cantwell did not return the questionnaire. All answers are from Baldwin. BACKGROUND Question: What are your qualifications for office? A. “Lifetime resident, 11 years in the Clay County Assessor’s Office and the last three years as the deputy assessor.” Question: Why are you running for office? A. “I have enjoyed my work in the Assessor’s Office and want to use the experience I have to improve the assessment department.” ISSUE QUESTIONS Question: By law, a person running for assessor needs no special skills, like an MBA, to get elected. Is that in the public’s interest? A. “Yes, as long as the citizens research, ask questions and learn about each candidate and elect the best candidate for the job. Special skills can come from experience as well as an education.” Question: Do you support the proposed Clay…