Ahead of this November’s election, WYDaily is sending out questionnaires to some candidates in contested races across the Historic Triangle.
This week is the election for the Williamsburg-James City County Sheriff.
WJCC voters will see three names on the ballot for sheriff on Nov. 5: Gerald Mitchell, Sean P. Gormus and David J. Hardin. WYDaily is publishing questionnaires filled out by each candidate Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. All questionnaires were sent at the same time, and all were given exactly three days to fill out their answers.
Candidates were required to keep their answers to 100 words each. The returned questionnaires have not been edited by WYDaily staff.
Publication is determined by the order in which questionnaires were returned
Here are David J. Hardin’s answers.
Why do you want to become sheriff?
I have worked for the office since it became known at the Williamsburg – James City County Sheriff’s Office. I still feel that this office has a lot more to do. I feel that there are some things that we can improve. We have made great strides to make this office better for the community and employees. I feel our office needs to continuing forward incorporating improving technologies into our everyday operations. I feel that I am the right candidate to lead that charge being that I am the only candidate with the historical knowledge of this office.
What is your plan for community outreach?
I plan to get our Deputies to get more involved in community services by including a category within our yearly evaluations requiring so many documented hours yearly of their own choosing. I plan on organizing opportunities for deputies to volunteer for community projects and clean ups that they choose.
How will you increase the amount of community involvement and engagement with the department’s law enforcement?
Our office will continue to work closely with both Williamsburg Police Department and James City County Police Department to ensure that we have a presence during their community events. We will also look for ways to add some community outreach project that will not impact on our operations and our budget. We will continue to do our outreach projects that we already have in place.
