Turner’s Leadership Has Been Positive

Dear Editor,

I have a unique perspective on our Sheriff's Office; I've worked there since March 2011.

Prior to working there, I was very active in the Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue for many years. From first-hand experience, I felt change was needed.

Three years later and I have not been disappointed. I have found our Sheriff to be a very engaged leader who diligently puts in the long hours that positive change takes. He has the ability to make difficult decisions which he knows won't please everyone. I'm thankful that high ethical standards are at the forefront of his decisions and that his collaborative style of leadership keeps the organization headed in the direction to increase public safety. I have seen over and over again that he thinks outside the box and is willing to work with those who have a difference of opinion. I have experienced him being respectful to those with different opinions, even when they were not to him.

Some who would like to see our Sheriff fail have been critical of his spending. Proven best practices have been used, and projects put on hold, to save money throughout each year so that it could be applied towards needed equipment and training. This isn't a new concept; successful businesses and public agencies everywhere use this strategy. Our Sheriff has accomplished a lot and has stayed within budget while doing so.

I respectfully disagree with those that say the staff at the Sheriff's Office is fractured. The vast majority of us enjoy working well together and believe in the direction we are headed. The statements about the staff being fractured have actually driven the majority of us closer. Many of us are better acquainted now that we have felt the need to rally in support of Sheriff Turner. That being said, it is true that not everyone has embraced our new level of professional standards and high expectations. One of them is now running against Sheriff Turner in this election.

The changes we have experienced under Sheriff Turner's leadership have been much-needed positive transformations which benefit public safety. Based upon what I've personally experienced, I feel strongly that under Sheriff Turner's continued leadership, our office can and will meet the needs of our Walla Walla County community.

I whole-heartedly support Sheriff Turner for re-election. Please join me. Shanda Zessin Milton-Freewater