Former resident would vote for Mike Balch

To The Eagle:

While attending the recent Wahkiakum County Fair, I had the opportunity to meet Sheriff Mark Howie. A very nice guy, and I’m sure, a competent law enforcement officer. But, I have to say that I was very pleased when I learned that Deputy Mike Balch was running for the office of Wahkiakum County Sheriff. I have known Mike for 20+ years. Of all the present officers with the Wahkiakum County Sheriff’s Office, I would think Mike would be far and away the top candidate for this post.

Over 16 years ago, a tragedy occurred in our family that required involvement of the Sheriff’s Office. Mike was the lead officer on this case. His ear must still be ‘bent’ from all the times I called him to see when the case was going to be resolved. It never rattled him. He did his job, professionally and efficiently. He crossed all the ‘t’s and dotted all the ‘i’s and a successful outcome to the case was achieved.

I no longer live in Wahkiakum County, so I can’t vote in your election. But I do urge a vote for Mike Balch. You can’t go wrong.

Mike Parker, Longview