DAYTON—Columbia County Sheriff Joe Helm spoke at length in his report to the Dayton City Council last week.

Most notably, he reported about traffic stops and criticism he has received from some who say there have been way too many. Since January 1, the road deputies have made 748 traffic stops.

Helm said the stops are not only for safety reasons but also to prevent crime and drugs from entering the community.

According to the sheriff, Columbia County is a major drug route from the west coast to Lewiston.

Over the last few weeks, deputies have taken some “dangerous” drivers off county...