Sheriff’s race: Fortney best of county’s recent sheriffs

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, October 24, 2023

I have worked for all six of the living sheriffs and truly believe that the Sheriff’s Office has never had a better administration. The continued attacks on current Sheriff Adam Fortney’s leadership and character, prove that he is doing his elected job well because his opponent cannot bring up anything else she would do differently, in fact if you look at what she says she wants to do, it is already being by the current administration.

For those that want change in law enforcement, who is more likely to bring it: the individual who is touting the support of the men who have controlled the Sheriff’s Office from 1995 until 2019, or the individual who has listened and led through last few turbulent years?

Actual leadership is making tough decisions like disbanding units because of a staffing crisis so patrol deputies have backing units and can perform their jobs safely. Character is sitting those individuals down, looking them in the eyes and explaining why you made the decision, then allowing them to be upset and not holding it against them when they curse and vent.

Traits of a good boss or elected official are passionate, willing to listen and open to change. Adam Fortney has these traits!

As someone who was born and raised in Snohomish County, works for the citizens of Snohomish County, and more importantly raises his family in Snohomish County I encourage everyone to vote for Adam Forney for sheriff.

James Chelin

Lake Stevens