Why I'm Running for Tulare County Sheriff in 2010

Over the years we have all seen a need for more accountability in the Sheriff’s Department. This accountability must start at the top and be communicated and implemented throughout the ranks as its corporate culture. In a Zapalac Sheriff Department we will encourage education, training, professional improvement, merit-based promotion, and spirit of service above self. I plan to create a public safety atmosphere where exceptional performance is rewarded and recognized. I also commit to hold personnel accountable for their actions, where mistakes are dealt with in a fair, firm, open and productive environment so that the taxpayers of Tulare County see we are working to provide the best possible professional service.

My campaign enjoys a groundswell of grassroots support with working families in every community stepping forward to encourage me and work for a winning election. We are working hard to meet with as many community organizations, gatherings and individuals as possible during this time prior to the June 2010 election. I hope to get to know every single voter by then.

The law enforcement concerns of the citizens of this County are well known: gangs, drugs, response time to rural regions, retention of quality deputies, efficient use of jail space, metal theft and rural crime, and coordination with city, state and federal agencies.

Of course, I am also very concerned about our youth and have been out-front developing Camp Zap where we connect eye-to-eye with at-risk youngsters in order to impress on them the quality choices that are available to them in order to be a productive and responsible citizen.

I also believe we need to adopt new, creative emerging technologies to out-smart criminals and make our communities safe. This is not a time for “business as usual”, but a time where all innovations possible will be employed in a Zapalac Sheriff Department.

Over the next few months, I hope to connect with Tulare County voters so we can have a dialogue about the issues of the day. Feel free to contact me at john@zapalacforsheriff.com