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On the Issues
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Endorsement ... |
These are the top issues Scott Hilliard will address as Sheriff of Merrimack County:
PROBLEM: Efficiency and fiscal responsiblity in the office of the sheriff needs to be addressed.
SOLUTION: One of my most important goals as sheriff is to address this issue by implementing a regional approach to problem-solving by working effectively with all law enforcement in the county, including the county attorney, the Department of Corrections, the Office of the Commissioners, and the County Delegation. This approach saves money and increases efficiency by better utilizing the talents of law enforcement officials.
Additionally, I have outlined plans for an organization called REST - Regional Emergency Support Team - which will assist local communities during any county disasters.
PROBLEM: As of September 1, 2005, there are 375 outstanding warrants held by the Office of the Sheriff. Many of these warrants are for alleged sex offenders, "deadbeat dads," and illegal drug users. The lack of response to the warrants for these offenders has contributed to the rise in illegal drug use across the county.
SOLUTION: These arrest warrants must be acted upon in an efficient, timely manner. I plan to act on these warrants by having law enforcement personnel actively pursue each accused offender until all arrests are made.
PROBLEM: Drug abuse - specifically among teens - has risen dramatically over the past two years. From 2002 to 2004, there was a
30 percent increase in drug-related emergency room deaths. In 2003,
2.3 million 12- to 17-year-olds nationwide (that's 1 in 10) abused one controlled prescription drug.
Ninety percent of sheriffs interviewed for the National Association of Counties reported methamphetamine-related arrests in their counties over the past three years, and most considered meth to be the most serious problem their departments face. (Source: National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University.)
SOLUTION: A countywide, regional approach from law enforcement coordinated by the sheriff is the best way to effectively address the growing drug abuse problem in Merrimack County.
The role I would take as sheriff is to bring together law enforcement agents from different communities, pooling their resources to determine the best approach to apprehending drug ring leaders, dealers, and buyers. This helps small towns that have limited resources, and also makes the best use of county funds.
PROBLEM: County services need to increase to the level that county taxes have increased.
SOLUTION: The overall solution to this issue is better management of existing personnel, allowing them the opportunity to apply their talents and knowledge by getting out to the different communities as much as possible. This results in better services to these communities and the most effective use of county tax dollars. These services include handling warrants, transporting prisoners, assisting communities with emergencies, and helping local law enforcement.
Additionally, better use of county vehicles is very important in toeing the line on county spending.
PROBLEM: Citizens need highly responsive personnel in the office of the sheriff.
SOLUTION: As sheriff, I would bring stronger leadership to the office, taking a hands-on approach that includes promptly addressing phone calls, e-mails, and other inquiries from citizens and officials of Merrimack County. Additionally, I intend to set up Town Meetings to meet citizens in person and address their concerns.
Anyone who wishes to contact me right now can reach me via e-mail at scott@hilliardforsheriff.com.
"Uniting law enforcement and citizens to improve our overall quality of life."
- Scott Hilliard
Contact Scott
via e-mail
