Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir Friday announced that he will seek reelection to the office. 

“Just over four years ago, I announced my intention to run for sheriff of Barton County. In January 2013 I was sworn in and began my service to the public as sheriff,” he said in a letter stating his intentions. “It has been an honor and a privilege these last 3 ½ years to serve the citizens of my home. It has come time to once again ask for your vote of confidence and support as I seek reelection.”

The letter goes on to say: “When I first ran for sheriff, one of the key promises I made is that I would keep the public informed to the best of my ability. I have always felt the public has a right to know what their elected officials are doing. I’ve talked to the media hundreds of times in the last four years and will continue to do so. I have an open door policy at the Sheriff’s Office, and I am always willing to talk to citizens about their concerns. I will continue this policy as long as I’m sheriff.

“Additionally, I promised to be fiscally responsible.  As a Barton County native, I understand the economic struggles our community faces. The Sheriff’s Office has come in under budget every year of my administration. I will strive to continue to be responsible with tax payer dollars.

“A sheriff is only as effective as the people he chooses as part of his team. I am very proud of my command staff, detectives, patrol officers, detention officers, records personnel, reserve officers as well as all the support staff that makes the Sheriff’s Office work. Together we have accomplished many goals in the last four years.

“When the public expressed an interest in concealed carry classes, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office became one the few law enforcement agencies in the state to host such classes. We’ve continued traditions at the Sheriff’s Office such as Kids Camp, the Bike Rodeo and participation in the Barton County Fair and other events. Additionally, we have recently added “Active Shooter Training” for schools and businesses, and defensive driving classes to our public curriculum.

“As sheriff, I have confronted the hard cases and investigations. As promised, my office has worked to attack the methamphetamine problem in the county, and we will continue to do so. Furthermore, we have addressed homicides, hostage situations, kidnappings, burglaries and thefts just to name a few. We take every investigation seriously. I am here to help bring justice for the victims, punishment to the criminals and safety to our citizens. 

“I am very proud of the excellent working relationship my office has developed with other public service entities in the County. I will continue to work closely with the local police departments, fire departments, and county commissioners, as well as, many other city and county agencies. 

“In closing, I ask you to participate in the purest form of democracy – the local election – by making your voice heard in county government. It is with humility and gratitude that I ask for your support for reelection in the August primary.”