11/17/08

Like many government agencies, the new Jerome County Sheriff is faced with a limited budget as he moves into his new job. Sheriff Elect Doug McFall presented several issues concerning the budget and personnel to commissioners.

"I’m optimistic that any change is good and there's going to be some very positive things come of this,’ said Commissioner Diana Obenauer

There are a number of issues the former Idaho State Trooper says he will address.

McFall says, "The biggest issue that I’m faced with is not only taking in a new office but also facilitating the process for the new jail."

McFall says the jail is one of the counties pressing issues needs to address, and he says he needs an administrative staff to help him do it.

One of which, he introduced to the commissioners, Chief Deputy Jack Johnson former Twin Falls County Lieutenant.

"Jack brings just about as much law enforcement experience as I have and he has a lot of other specialties that I have not been faced with," McFall said.

And Johnson is looking forward to his news roll for Jerome County, "I look forward to bringing some training to the Jerome County Sheriffs office to better prepare them for their jobs and serve Jerome County."

Sheriff Elec-McFall says he can save money by training in house and with other agencies such as the police department. Even though the budget is high on his list serving the people of Jerome County is at the top.

McFalls says, "I'm concerned about the budget, budgeting is a new aspect for me and I just want to make sure that I’m responsible with the tax payers money."