Teresa Wright: Sheriff, wife work hard to reward law enforcement staff

To The Daily Sun,

From the perspective of the sheriff’s wife: I once received some advice from a previous sheriff’s wife. She said, “Buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.” At that moment, I never knew how true that statement would be. When the residents of Belknap County voted my husband into office, they got me, too. I want to support my husband in every effort I possibly can. I go to community events with him, help plan special appreciation events at work such as cooking lunch, ice cream socials and serving breakfast for the staff. I take vacation time to help prepare and serve food for his staff members. Since the sheriff’s office doesn’t have a budget for things like this, the sheriff and I pay for it out of our pockets and for any appreciation gifts. So, when I hear things like my husband doesn’t appreciate his staff, I think “Hmm, but do they appreciate or notice him and his efforts?” I noticed during some of these events, some staff dismissed the invite and don’t participate. It’s disappointing, but then there were some staff who were very appreciative and thankful.

My husband puts great effort into the department budget process. He maintains a positive approach even after his requested budgets get cut. He was able to get funding approvals for dispatchers' and bailiffs' pay raises and to purchase new cruisers and equipment. This after hours of discussion with commissioners and delegation members about the importance of retaining and hiring of personnel and safety of aging cruisers. Did you know that my husband drives the oldest cruiser at the office? I know some police chiefs drive the newest vehicles — not my husband. He wants his staff to have the newest equipment available and always puts their mission first. Vote Wright.

Teresa Wright

Belmont