When our sheriff, Dave Stanko, took office almost four years ago, the department was in disarray, according to an assessment by the Washington Association of Sheriff’s and Police Chiefs.  In their evaluation they found the sheriff’s department failing ten of the twelve standards, including jails, public records, property room management, training, health and safety, and administration of the department.

Stanko pledged to correct and improve the ten seriously deficient areas, and that is what he has done.  But, he says the job is not complete, and he is asking voters for one more term to finish the important work that has already resulted in so many positive reforms

In addition, Sheriff Stanko’s commitment to his initiative of “community policing” whereby deputies are encouraged to relate to citizens and their needs, is the only policing model that we should universally endorse, regardless of party affiliation. This new approach is clearly stated in a quote from Stanko himself, who said, “We develop our men and women in law enforcement with the courage and tenacity of a warrior, but most importantly the heart and mind of a guardian and protector.”

Most of the resistance to the sheriff’s leadership comes from some staff and employees’ resentment at being held to standards of accountability, but isn’t personal and professional responsibility something we should be endorsing?  After all, without it, all we have is business as usual.

Dave Stanko is the candidate with my support and vote.

Gail Chatfield

Port Hadlock