Letter: We should retain our local incumbent officials

By Jack D. Jones - 10/29/2008

At a time when our one vote doesn't seem to count that much anymore in the national elections, especially with the influence of ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) and illegal voter registration and outdated electoral votes, our one vote does count in local elections.

We need someone for sheriff in our community with good judgment, experience and an understanding of the problems in our community. Sheriff John Walsh has a long record of these capabilities and is a dedi-cated public servant who understands the laws. He works closely with federal law enforcement personnel and is highly res-pected for his professionalism. We can ill afford to go down a path of off-the-wall philosophies in law enforcement. The sheriff has always been one of the lowest-paid officials in Butte-Silver Bow, which I never have understood as well. We need Walsh to continue to serve this community, and the problems require someone with his capa- bility and long experience.

I equally credit the same attributes to Paul Babb. Babb does not back off to tough decisions and deserves our support as well. He has helped to diversify the business environment in this community. The airport problem will require some new thinking to encourage air service and make our airport safe with radar capability. Radar is more important than the nickel and dime parking lot in my view. The recreation potential of southwest Montana is closely related to airport service of commercial airlines. In the best interest of Butte-Silver Bow, re-elect Babb as well as Walsh.

Jack D. Jones 3014 Irene St.

Butte