Two candidates invited, only one likely to show
To the Editor:
The sheriff is our highest elected official in Jackson County and has the duty to “keep the peace and enforce laws.” Jackson County citizens deserve the opportunity to meet with both candidates to ask questions, so they can make an informed decision.
Both candidates were contacted with Doug Farmer accepting and Rick Buchanan requesting a neutral location, sponsor and moderator. Mr. Buchanan’s requests were fulfilled by using the Sylva Library and not having a sponsor or a moderator. After fulfilling Mr. Buchanan’s requirements, he continually requested changes and ultimately “respectfully declined” to attend an open community forum for all Jackson County Citizens to have the opportunity to ask him questions. I sincerely hope Mr. Buchanan changes his mind and joins the Jackson County Sheriff’s Forum on Thursday.
Please join the Jackson County sheriff candidate(s) on Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. in the Sylva Public Library Community Room located at 310 Keener St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the forum starts promptly at 6 p.m. This forum is not sponsored or moderated by any political party and is open to all citizens of Jackson County and to both candidates.
Keith Blaine
Jackson County
