Deschutes Co. sheriff’s candidates Bailey, Vander Kamp talk DCSO budget, office tensions, lawsuit threats in KTVZ debate

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Deschutes County sheriff's candidates Captain William Bailey and Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp squared off in a live 30-minute debate Monday evening on NewsChannel 21, answering questions on issues ranging from homeless and drugs to the budget and potential lawsuits alleging political retaliation against Vander Kamp and his political supporters.

Here are all three segments of the debate, moderated by Lee Anderson.

Much like their first debate in February, the pair agreed on more than they disagreed, for example both saying they are involved with and expecting more progress in the issues related to homeless camping at Juniper Ridge, China Hat and other locations.

Bailey also defended such high-profile criticized purchases as a $3,000 slushy machine and $5,000 fitness tracker, saying, “We invest in tools to help do our job better,” including community engagement.

Bailey said DCSO carried over $4.4 million from last year’s budget, saying, while Vander Kamp said that came in part from not hiring the full number of needed employees: “That is not a win,” and calling for a more transparent financial system.

In a rebuttal period, Bailey pointed to flat transient room taxes, while Vander Kamp said, “I think learning how to tighten our belts, rather than asking for more money is the way to do that.”

As for the contentious campaign, Anderson asked the pair, “How can you ensure the public this ‘bad blood’’ won’t impact the department’s ability to be effective going forward.”

“It’s been a rough year – I’m not going to lie,” Vander Kamp said. “I believe we will have an opportunity for fresh blood and a new perspective. The office is in need of a change.” But he added that public safety must remain the focus: “We can’t let politics get in the way. … We have no choice.”

Bailey agreed that “the last nine months have been rough for the office,” and that when Vander Kamp announced his bid, “that immediately changed the whole vibe within the office, and it has been a challenge.”

But he expressed confidence it won’t last beyond the election: ‘We’ve been through stuff before, and we’ll get through this, no matter who wins. Kent and I will shake hands after the election is over. We will represent what should be adult conversations … (and) not tear each other down.”

Vander Kamp said, “I want to lead a sheriff’s office that’s innovative, collaborative, trusted and efficient, with a safe and supportive environment. … I want to support the heart, mind and soul of our deputies. That’s who deserves it, and where my attention will be.”

Bailey responded: “Everything Kent just said is already in place. There are individuals in the sheriff’s office who are unhappy. Every organization has that. … If Kent has heard of problems within the office, I’ve never been aware of them. They’ve never been brought forward, and we need people to communicate if they have concerns within the office, so we can fix those problems.”