Schram prepared for WW Sheriff

To the Editor,

I was thrilled to see Richard Schram file to run for Walla Walla County Sheriff. He has been preparing for this role for years.

Throughout my eleven years on College Place City Council, I have watched Richard serve as a Sheriff’s Office representative and take on increasingly significant leadership responsibilities. He has worked under three sheriffs, learning what works and, more importantly, what doesn’t.

Richard understands how budgets and collective bargaining agreements work. He knows how to lead deputies from different backgrounds, and has made the effort to stay active, present, and engaged. He asks questions, listens, speaks up when something isn’t right, and knows how to pivot when plans inevitably change.

Richard also understands that the Sheriff’s Office doesn’t operate in a silo. He works to build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with other local agencies and understands what it will take to serve this demanding role well.

I have been proud to introduce Richard to people throughout the valley and am grateful for the opportunity to ask you to support him with me. He has done the work, gained the experience, and is ready to lead. Richard Schram is ready to be our Sheriff.

Heather Schermann

College Place, Wash.