Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I have been a Mathews resident for 34 years, a Mathews business owner, and have provided employment for Mathews citizens.

I would like to address some elective offices forming the backbone of our county: Commissioner of the Revenue, Treasurer, Clerk of Court and Sheriff. These officials execute, rather than make policy. They work with little recognition, until something goes wrong. My experience with these officials has been exceptional over the years.

I have sought Mr. Les Hall’s advice and counsel several times during his tenure. He has always been open, knowledgeable and professional. He is a capable and dedicated public servant. Mr. Hall’s office runs efficiently. His employees are helpful and reflect positive attitudes. Why would anyone vote to break up this winning team?

Kudos to Ms. Wendy Stewart, our Treasurer, who runs a tight ship and, deservedly, is running unopposed.

Our former Clerk of the Court, Ms. Angela Ingram, recently retired. Ms. Ingram ran an exemplary office and left it in excellent condition. To minimize the impact of her retirement on court/clerk functions, she fully trained her deputy, Ms. Elizabeth Brown, to take her place. Why elect a candidate with little to no germane Mathews experience when we have Ms. Brown, a well-trained Acting Clerk, filling the position now?

In my humble opinion, the office of Sheriff should be non-partisan. I have great respect for Sheriff Mark Barrick. An excellent sheriff, he knows his department far better than anyone else possibly could. Mathews County is his home. His department is his legacy. Sheriff Barrick has developed his subordinates based on their demonstrated skills and strengths. I accept Sheriff Barrick’s judgment on who can best fill his shoes.

Gerald W. Thrash
Hallieford, Va.