I think the sheriff should get an additional 10 deputies. He needs at least that to bring the department up to the right ratio of citizens to police.

I suggest the “teabaggers” and Democrats and Republicans get together and find a way to dedicate more money to the Sheriff’s Office, something like a levy vote as we do for the library and hospital. Figure out how much money is needed, and put together a levy to pay for additional officers.

Here is my challenge to the leaders of the Tea Party, of the Republicans and Democrats, who will make the first call and who will stand up for the Sheriff’s Office?

Deputies cost money, are you willing to pay a little extra each year? I am.

I thank our commissioners for their hard work, shaving 25 percent out of a budget is painful. They have given up thousands of dollars of their own income to help the county. We should be able to tax ourselves a small stipend to help the Sheriff’s Office.

Jay Brand

Oak Harbor