There's a new Sheriff in town!

(file photo)

When Dave Earnst spoke at our board meeting I believe all of us felt a new day was dawning. He is a man who will tell it like it is and that is what is needed. I appreciate that candor.
 The Boone County Sheriff's Department is currently down by eight deputies from a normal force of forty. That is a twenty percent deficit in manpower patrolling our county. This is unacceptable and although Dave is currently saddled with the prior Sheriff's budget he plans to fight for more staffing next year to better cover his territory.
  Another thing that made me smile. I have made no secret of the fact to me it is ridiculous to have Sheriff's deputies standing at our front gate upon occasion checking those who stop there for seat belts. From now on that will not happen. Any seat belt checks will be at stop signs outside our gates where anyone could be driving through, not just Candlewick people. That was prejudicial in my opinion. Those days are over!
 He plans additional patrols in Candlewick at no cost to us. As he said, we pay the taxes and we deserve the coverage. He wants and expects calls from the residents regarding any suspicious activities or crime that are witnessed. He assured us there will be follow through. Dave is a strong advocate of community involvement in keeping our community safe.
 To put it simply, I was quite impressed with his presentation and openness. I expect the best cooperation between our Public Safety and the Sheriff's Department we have seen in years, if ever. 
Ken