Help needed due to Deputy Prosecutor vacancy

DAYTON-During the brief public portion of the work session held on January 23, the Board of County Commissioners and Sheriff Joe Helm discussed Columbia County services for the Town of Starbuck with Mayor Zonia Dedloff and Town Council Members.

County Prosecutor Dale Slack was able to join the meeting and contribute after some initial discussion to clarify that the issue going forward is there needs to be a civil authority in place for their jurisdiction for such things as enforcing ordinances and criminal investigation. He suggested they consider hiring a lawyer to handle the civil work, but at a minimum hire one for a small fee for consultation about options on how to proceed. Slack is currently the only lawyer in the prosecutor's office. He recently lost the deputy prosecutor to another position and previously one other lawyer. He he is only able to manage what is absolutely required by law of him at this time.

Chairman of the Commission Ryan Rundell added that he understands that there needs to also be a memorandum of agreement or an interlocal agreement for County services similar to what the City of Dayton has with the County. Slack affirmed this.

Helm offered assurance that the Sheriff's Department has been and will continue to be responsive to calls for Starbuck, as well as patrolling the roads. However, because of laws restricting law enforcement there are limitations placed on investigating crimes where probable cause and evidence is required. He emphasized the need for citizens to report and cooperate with investigations rather than withhold information for fear of retaliation by neighbors. An example provided by Helm was when they were called out to investigate a recent burglary where no one wanted to make statements and they were not able to do their job. Instead, a reward was advertised in the community, the items were returned, and no one was held accountable.

Resident Don Jackson talked about how society has changed where once there was a strong law enforcement presence. Helm affirmed that there used to be many more reserve deputies, but they are establishing a Sheriff's Posse Program of volunteer citizens to be trained in crime watch, in court security, and to assist at community events

Rundell suggested the parties and officials involved hold an informal meeting with only Commissioner Jack Miller who is the Starbuck liaison. The BOCC will meet next for a public hearing on January 30 at 1:30 PM.