Sheriff’s race Q&A part 2: candidates confront criticism

EPHRATA — As the race for Grant County sheriff heads toward the Nov. 3 general election, candidates Joey Kriete and Darrik Gregg are being asked not only about their plans for the agency, but also about their own shortcomings and how they respond to criticism. 

The Columbia Basin Herald posed a series of questions to both candidates on issues facing the Grant County Sheriff's Office and Grant County residents. 

This second installment in a five-part candidate Q&A series asked candidates: What is one criticism of yourself that you believe voters should take seriously, and why should they still trust you to serve as sheriff? 

Readers can find part one of the Columbia Basin Herald's sheriff candidate Q&A series about leadership styles here: bit.ly/GCSOPrt1.  

Ballots must be postmarked or returned to an official ballot drop box by Nov. 3. Voters can verify their registration status and obtain election information at VoteWa.gov. Grant County voters can also contact their local elections office with questions at 509-754-2011 ext. 2704. 

Gregg: One criticism voters should take seriously is that I can be very driven and expect a lot from myself and the people I work with. I have high expectations because I believe the people of Grant County deserve the very best from their Sheriff’s Office. However, I recognize that leadership also requires listening, patience and understanding that not every problem can be solved overnight. 

That is one reason servant leadership is so important to me. I am willing to listen, learn and surround myself with good people who will challenge me when necessary. I don't believe a Sheriff should think they have all the answers or be afraid to admit when something needs to be done differently. 

Voters should trust me because I will be accountable for my decisions, and I will lead from the front, be visible in our communities, and remain engaged with the employees who serve alongside me. 

Kriete: One criticism voters should take seriously is that I am a relationship-driven person. I genuinely care about people, value relationships, and don’t enjoy disappointing those I work with. One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned as Sheriff is that doing what is right sometimes means making decisions that people I care about won’t agree with. 

But I’ve also learned an important lesson during my 33 years in this profession: we are public servants, not self-servants. 

My responsibility isn’t to make the most popular decision. It is to make the decision I believe is in the best interest of the communities we serve, while also considering the needs of our employees and organization. Sometimes that means saying no, making an unpopular decision, or having a difficult conversation. 

Voters can trust me because I won’t make promises simply because people want to hear them, and I won’t put popularity, relationships, or personal interests ahead of my responsibility as Sheriff. I will listen, I will care, and I will always value people.  

But when difficult decisions have to be made, the people of Grant County come first.