Letter to Editor: Why I Should Be Your Next Sheriff

— from Ron Krebs —

My name is Ron Krebs and I am asking for your vote for San Juan County Sheriff. I would like to take this opportunity to express why you should vote for me.

This county is ready for a change in leadership. Your deputies, dispatchers, correction officers and countless residents have spoken out recently about the difficulties the department is experiencing. They are asking you to help elect someone who will work with them, communicate with them and bring direction and guidance back to the Sheriff’s Department. I am humbled by their trust in my vision and their support of my candidacy.

Ten years of management experience with a successful multi-million dollar franchise has provided me the knowledge to work with budgets, oversee personnel and understand the complex scheduling needs of our county. I will aggressively seek grants and alternate sources of funding to augment our budget utilizing the key support staff already in place.

Morale will be restored by improved communication, creating a standard to which everyone can be held accountable and the implementation of clear and practical policies.

School security is of paramount importance to me. The Sheriff’s Department will work hand-in-hand with the schools, providing the support they need to be safe, including clear emergency procedures. We will provide them with the support to be tough on drugs and alcohol. By spending time with our children in the schools, we will interact with them in a constructive way as they grow up providing positive reinforcement.

The drug problem on our islands is real. It is an area of great importance to our citizens. It affects us all. I will immediately reassess our efforts and use every resource at my disposal to identify the most effective path forward. In collaboration with other agencies I will develop an aggressive drug eradication program. A collaborative effort will be the key to a successful effort.

I will implement a Reserve Deputy program to help our staffing issues. This can be employed with little cost to the department. It will also provide additional opportunities such as an Animal Control Officer.

To make sure I am meeting your needs, I promise to have an open door policy, to return your phone calls and emails, to answer your questions and complaints. I will hold town hall meetings to address your concerns and give you a voice.

By voting for me, you can help make the Sheriff’s Office a place we can all be proud of.