The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

A contract with the county sheriff for police services in Sisters is an idea favored by both candidates for Deschutes County sheriff.

During a candidate's forum last week at Sisters Elementary School, candidates Greg Brown and Larry Blanton both indicated some kind of an agreement with the sheriff's office would be favored to help curb police service costs to the city.

A written, unsigned, question from the audience asked if either candidate had any idea on how the county can help reduce police costs in Sisters.

The writer referred to current budget woes under study by the city council. The council is seeking ways to trim costs to keep expenses in balance with city revenues.

To this Blanton replied, "You may not want to hear this, (police services) are very expensive." He said small police department budgets are difficult.

"You don't know where you are going to be with a budget." He alluded to circumstances that can add substantially to overtime, such as a homicide investigation, and other situations requiring unanticipated police work.

"A contract with the sheriff is a real possibility," Blanton said

Brown advocates combining police and sheriff services in the Sisters area, presumably, including regions outside the city limits.

"It may be time to sit and talk with the citizens of Sisters. I propose, after I am elected, to form a study group to see if this is time (for a city/sheriff agreement.)

Brown said, "The bottom line would be a savings (to the city) with better service."

Both candidates are lieutenants with Deschutes County Sheriff's Department. Blanton is command patrol lieutenant and Brown is administrative command lieutenant.

Blanton has been with the department since 1985 and Brown joined the department in 1973.

Blanton campaigns with emphasis on his relationship with the rank and file of the department and management of a 60-deputy force. Brown boasts a masters degree and bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

He emphasizes his experience as a deputy, his background in administration and his involvement in community activities.