Sheriff Scott Outlines Priorities at First Town Hall

By Roger Gitlin

More than 90 Del Norters attended Sheriff Garrett Scott’s first Town Hall. The event was held at the Veterans Hall last week.

Few people may realize the full extent of the services the Sheriff’s Office provides. Sheriff Scott covered the gamut at the Town Hall. Ten divisions and a staff of 67 handle a wide range of responsibilities — many of which the public may not even realize fall under the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office:

Administration, Patrol, Search and Rescue, Marine Division, Investigations, Correctional Facility, Civil Office, Animal Control/Dog Pound, the Coroner, and the Posse — championed by “Otis,” the ’55 Ford police car.

It is a tremendous workload, and tight budgets create ongoing challenges for the Department.

Sheriff Scott shared several short- and long-term priorities with the audience:

• Retention of staff and continued professional training
• Administrative training and incident management
• Across-the-board raises for all deputies
• Board of Supervisors support in budget allocations
• Re-establishing the Felony Investigation Unit
• Establishing a multi-jurisdictional team

It is a very big job.

Scott fielded many public questions, along with several comments reflecting appreciation for both his team and himself.

The Sheriff hopes he has earned your respect and appreciation for the work his staff performs 24/7, 365 days a year.

Law enforcement is tough, demanding work — often with little thanks.

Sheriff Scott plans to hold additional Town Halls in the future.