News Release No. 2004-9
October 22, 2004
A MESSAGE FROM THE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY
TO THE CITIZENS OF SAN JUAN COUNTY
Last week, the Board of County Commissioners announced that they want to cut at least $60,000 from the budget of the Prosecuting Attorney. This cut will likely mean the loss of one attorney from an already understaffed office. This action would jeopardize justice and impair the ability of this office to defend and protect the quality of life you expect for our island community.
I am taking a hard line to protect the citizens of this County. My position is simple: For this office to fulfill its mission, the County Commissioners must find other revenue or make cuts in other areas. Here is why:
Public Safety Comes First. Our laws mean little if they are not enforced. Criminal cases begin with an arrest, and end only after the case goes to court and the sentence is completed. This office regularly prosecutes people who manufacture and sell drugs, commit acts of domestic violence, drive drunk, steal, and hurt other people. We presently have two attorneys who regularly work overtime on criminal cases. Given the volume of criminal cases, it is not possible for this job to be done with fewer people without jeopardizing the safety of the community.
Keeps Government Working for You. Every office of County government needs help navigating the maze of laws that determine what can or cannot be done. This is "back office" work that is essential, time consuming, yet barely visible. Last year, we tackled a variety of issues including enforcing land use laws, assuring that open meetings and election laws are followed, drafting contracts and other documents, and advising on tax fairness questions, accessory dwelling units, and hiring or disciplining employees. In each case, we provided direction and choices that made it possible for the County to work effectively. Next year will bring new challenges in these same areas, plus vital work on planning for Eastsound and Lopez Villages, barge landing regulations and essential public facilities. This work cannot be done without the help and advice of attorneys.
Spend a Nickel, Save a Dime. San Juan County is exposed to substantial risk in all of its operations and has its share of lawsuits and potential lawsuits to defend. It is inviting disaster to require County offices to operate without adequate legal advice. History has shown that an inadequately staffed prosecutor’s office has always cost the county more money than it saves.
Good People, Good Government. Unlike other departments, prosecutors work in a high-risk profession where mistakes can be costly in terms of financial and personal loss. We cannot afford to lose the knowledge that comes from years of service. Each person in this office takes pride in our reputation as an experienced, hard-working, efficient office. We constantly search for ways to reduce costs. In past years, our budget has been cut to the bone – last year the amount was 10% - yet the need for legal work continues to grow. The salaries we pay are less than those of comparable offices throughout the state. This year, we are not seeking a budget increase - only to maintain the status quo.
I need your support and advice. The Commissioners have many options. Taking more money from the Prosecuting Attorney should not be an option. If you agree, please contact:
Tell them you want a "status quo" budget for the Prosecutor. However, if you believe the Prosecutor’s budget should be cut, please call me at 360-378-4101 or email me, Randy Gaylord, at randyg@co.san-juan.wa.us. Tell me what services you would like to see eliminated from the Prosecuting Attorney’s office. For more information, go to www.co.san-juan.wa.us/prosecutor .
Randall K. Gaylord
San Juan County Prosecuting Attorney
350 Court Street, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 760
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360)378-4101