Transparency is the foundation of trust. To best serve our community, we must be willing to listen, communicate, and learn from each other. One of the ways to make this happen is to ensure the public has meaningful opportunities to be heard. Just as in any city, we need to be conducting regular meetings with our community members.

Internally, I will meet with every member of the Sheriff’s Office and seek their input on how we can improve. Command staff will be expected to meet regularly with those they supervise to address questions and concerns. Mistakes can and do happen. When they do, we must be willing to review, accept accountability and find solutions to prevent it from happening again. This may involve additional training, policy changes, or, in some cases, discipline for intentional wrongdoing. Accountability strengthens organizations, builds trust, and provides for an opportunity to grow.

I will ensure the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office becomes a state-accredited agency once again. Accreditation requires a thorough and honest review of our policies, procedures, and daily operations to ensure they meet current best practices and legal standards. At the Chehalis Police Department, I work closely with our Accreditation Manager to keep policies updated and compliant. I have the experience and knowledge to lead the Sheriff’s Office through this process because professionalism, accountability, and public trust matter.