Klickitat Co. Sheriff Songer against state bill to ‘modernize’ sheriff’s office

The bill would set eligibility requirements, duties and responsibilities of all law enforcement executives, whether sheriffs, police chiefs or marshals subject to the same requirements and standards whether appointed or elected. It would also curtail some of the activities of volunteers and posse members, including a restriction on carrying firearms.

On the positive side, Commissioner Todd Andrews noted the good working relationships between law enforcement agencies in the area.

“I spoke with both police chiefs,” he said. “They say interagency cooperation, even with tribal, has been really good.”

To which, Songer replied, “It’s gotta be that way. If you don’t have that cooperation, the only person that benefits is the bad guy.”

Fiscal manager to leave

And the county prepared to say farewell to Fiscal Services Manager Jennifer Neil, who has taken another position and will be genuinely missed. She was at her last commissioner meeting and showed commissioners a mockup of a tri-fold brochure on the county budget and budget process that she said she would finish before she left.

“This is just one of a lot of examples of how she’s made the information understandable and transparent and available,” said Human Resources Director Robb Van Cleave. “I’ve worked in a lot of governments, and that’s rarely the case. I think she’s done a tremendous job.”