Deschutes Co. sheriff reviving citizens’ advisory panel

Deschutes County Sheriff Shane Nelson is re-forming the Citizens’ Advisory Panel. This committee will provide guidance and insight for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and be used as a sounding board for agency programs, procedures and the revamp of our strategic plan, Nelsons aid Friday.

“We had a Citizens’ Advisory Panel 20 years ago when we were preparing our stable funding measure. Not only did the Sheriff’s Office see the benefits from the panel, but the community benefited from having their voice heard on how to have their Sheriff’s Office funded for the foreseeable future,” Nelson said.

Members will serve as an information-gathering resource and advisory body to the Sheriff’s Office on matters pertaining to proactive public safety and the prevention of crime.

In addition, this committee will bring concerns of the community to the Sheriff. The Citizens’ Advisory Panel will be formed representing citizens from all areas of Deschutes County. With the guidance and direction of the Citizens’ Advisory Panel, insight will be gained on delivery of future services.

Citizen participation is fundamental to achieving successful law enforcement. Involving citizens in the planning process has many benefits. Committee members learn the limitations–as well as some of the frustrations–that public Safety professionals experience in confronting various problems.

“We are so fortunate in Central Oregon to have excellent community relationships,” Nelsons said. “We want to keep building and sustaining the partnerships with the community.

“Since I became Sheriff in July 2015 , I have had on-going conversations within the Sheriff’s Office about bringing the panel back. Based on the national climate of law enforcement relationships, we felt now was the right time to ensure our partnership with the community stays as strong as it is.”

Interested persons can pick up an application at the main Sheriff’s Office in Bend at 63333 West Highway 20, Bend, OR 97703. Application deadline is October 14 .

Additional information and an on-line application can also be found at https://sheriff.deschutes.org/ (Click on “Community” then “Community Program” and then select “Citizens’ Advisory Panel”).