The Editor:
I want to highlight an important issue that impacts all Whatcom County citizens that was just debated by the county council: Electing vs. appointing the county sheriff.
This idea that was proposed earlier this month by councilmember Todd Donovan would take away the power of voters and give it to politicians. Currently, candidates for sheriff are required to go and meet the public, knock on doors, attend community meetings, etc. and are connected to the community. Changing this to an appointed position by the county executive and county council removes this. The sheriff provides a check and balance on other elected officials, which is why protecting the independence of the office is critical.
Thank you to all of the citizens who voiced their opinion before and at the council meeting and a special thanks to the four councilmembers who voted against this idea that ensures that this important positions remains in the hands of all Whatcom voters: Councilmembers Buchanan, Byrd, Elenbaas and Kershner.
Dann Mead Smith
Birch Bay
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