Support Urged for Matt Stroe

Dear Editor,

As an elected official or department head, you are not only a leader of your department, but you also set the tone of the employees within your department. As a past Walla Walla County Commissioner, I have worked closely with all (12) elected officials and numerous department heads on all aspects ranging from budgets, union negotiations to employee issues. Just as in contract negotiations or budgetary issues, emotions can become heated. This election of Walla Walla County Sheriff has demonstrated this same atmosphere.

As a Whitman College Alumnus, I have a relationship and closeness with that community and know what Matt has accomplished in his position as head of security; this is not a crowd control position at a sporting event. It carries a tremendous amount of responsibility in today’s environment. Matt has grown his department to protect our most valuable assets…our children! Matt has the professionalism, budgeting skills and most important the demeanor and respect from those who he works with.

Knowing Matt from when he was employed by the county and now with Whitman College, I can say that he would frown upon employees of his department using social media in a negative way against any individual; his philosophy being that all employees uphold to a high standard as they are the peace keeper in the community as well as role models. They are a representative of the community.

I have not seen where candidate Crider, currently serving as undersheriff, has demonstrated this type of leadership within his department.

Matt Stroe, without a doubt, would be a leader of the sheriff’s department that would serve Walla Walla County now and in the future. I ask that you join me in voting for Matt Stroe as the next sheriff of our county.

Perry Dozier

Waitsburg