I really want to see Bob Chalk get elected as sheriff of Lake County. Why? Because I believe he is absolutely the best person for the job.

I worked with Bob when I was a Lake County Sheriff’s reserve deputy before I went on to a career with the California Highway Patrol.

I have worked with a great many people over the course of my law enforcement career. Some made a lasting positive impression on me that helped me mold myself into a conscientious and effective officer.

Bob was one of those people that led by example, and he showed me that law enforcement was an honorable and worthwhile career.

I know him to be honest and conscientious, I know he has integrity, and I know he has the public’s best interest at heart.

In short, he has the necessary knowledge, skills, ability, commitment and desire to make the Lake County Sheriff’s Department a much better organization than it is today.

His accomplishments as chief of police with the city of Clearlake clearly bear out the comments listed above, and is a record anyone could be proud of.

As a former CHP Area commander (Tracy, Calif. Area, 2003 thru 2005) I know what it takes to run an effective operation.

Managing personnel, budgets, working with the community for the good of all, earning the trust and respect of the public, and establishing positive and effective relationships with allied agencies are just a very few of the vital issues that face a commander.

I have absolutely no doubt Bob Chalk has what it takes to do the job, and to do it well.

Although I no longer live in Lake County, I was raised there, and still have ties there.

Having the right person as sheriff is critical to Lake County. Bob Chalk is that person, and a vote for him is a vote for a better Lake County.

Dave Rouse is a retired California Highway Patrol lieutenant. He lives in Rogue River, Ore.