Editor,

I have been watching the race for Island County Sheriff carefully.

My father and brother were in law enforcement, and I have worked closely with local and federal law enforcement agencies in my two primary careers.

My graduate work was in public administration. That should give me some background to make a decision as to which candidate I would hire if I were hiring for this position.

Both candidates have good resumes, but I believe Rick Felici is more qualified for the sheriff position.

He is a senior manager in the department and has worked extensively with the Sheriff Mark Brown in managing the department.

He has solid experience with budgeting, a critical need for this position, and has considerable personnel management experience.

The other candidate does not have that background.

Based on this, I am voting for Rick Felici. I urge you to do the same.

Gary Nienhuis

Oak Harbor