Letter: Writer endorses Neil Kester for Augusta County sheriff

I have lived in this area for nearly 20 years, working as a family practice physician assistant. For the past seven years, I have worked at the State Medical Examiner’s Office. As you know, we have four candidates running for the upcoming Augusta County Sheriff’s election. Three of these candidates (Derek Almarode, Todd Lloyd and Donald Smith) are all employed by the current sheriff’s office administration, while the other candidate (Neil Kester) is employed with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries as a conservation police officer.

This upcoming election is very important for all of us. Although I live in Staunton, I have intentions of moving to the Augusta County area by the end of the year, so this election does directly affect me.

Let me start off by saying that as a whole, the officers of the sheriff’s department are caring and dedicated people. I know firsthand, because I have worked directly with them on medical examiner cases. This election is about finding the best leader to resolve the current issues within the sheriff’s department and finding someone who will strengthen the organization. I believe that someone from outside of the department, with a new vision, and a great deal of experience is the right person for this position.

Take a look at the current sheriff with the Rockingham Sheriff’s Department, Bryan Hutchinson. He was employed with the Virginia State Police for many years before being elected to his current position. I have been told by many citizens who live in that area that he has improved the Rockingham Sheriff’s Department tremendously. Sometimes it takes someone from the “outside” to evoke change. Therefore, my choice for the new Augusta County sheriff is Neil Kester.

I have known Neil for nearly 18 years. He is very dedicated, has strong values, morals and ethics. He cares about the citizens of Augusta County. He has the most consecutive years law enforcement experience; more so than any of the other candidates (23 years) and is building a great team of individuals to assist him when he is elected to this position. A true leader is not afraid to ask for help and surround himself with strong people in order to better an organization. One of these individuals is retired Staunton Police Chief, Butch Wells, who not only was a great leader, but also was responsible for obtaining and keeping accreditation at the Staunton Police Department.

If you have any questions about who is the best candidate for the upcoming Augusta County Sheriff’s Department election, I ask you to study Neil’s agenda on his website at www.kesterforsheriff.com. I know without a doubt he will do a great job for the citizens of Augusta County. He has my full support and confidence. I hope you will feel the same way and vote Neil Kester on November 3rd.

– Letter from Barry L. Munsey/Staunton