April 6, 2024
To the Editor:

On April 4 I attended a Sheriff Candidate Forum in Ann Arbor. It was a full house to hear how the candidates stand on several issues.

The moderator asked questions pertaining to accountability, transparence, collaboration with other agencies, how to handle controversial incidents involving officers, and how to foster a positive work environment. There was discussion on the challenges to attract more law enforcement officers, diversity, and what it means to have community policing.

When the opportunity was provided I asked for input on how they would stop the cost of contract policing from continuing to spiral out of control. Our local deputies not only take care of the City and are present for a school emergency, but respond in our four townships in cases of emergencies. We simply cannot put any more tax burden on City residents and businesses to pay for police coverage in our area. I made it clear that they all have great ideas on creating an outstanding Washtenaw County Police Department (WCPD) but if it was unaffordable it would force the southwestern corner of Washtenaw County to become a “police free zone.”

How much on-site police coverage the City taxpayers can continue to provide is very much dependent on whether the Public Safety millage is renewed, the County Board of Commissioners, and the policies of WCPD. Who we elect as our next Sheriff is critical to our future safety.

Candidates are:

Derrick Jackson — www.Jackson4Sheriff.com
Alyshia Dyer — dyer2024.com
Ken Magee — MAGEE4SHERIFF.COM

The three candidates have very different backgrounds, experiences, and qualifications. I highly encourage everyone to research them and make an educated vote in the August primary.

Pat Vailliencourt
City of Manchester

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