There's a job opening for a new sheriff in town. Whoever wants it needs to act fast. The Lane County Board of Commissioners Tuesday decided to open the position currently held by Tom Turner.
Turner has conditionally accepted the job of Florence Police Chief. He's expected to start the job May 1st.
Under the county's charter, the board could just appoint the Chief Deputy to fill the position. But Lane County Commissioners have heard from at least one person in the Midwest who is interested in the job. Commissioner Faye Stewart assured Chief Deputy Byron Trapp that they're not opening the position because of any lack of confidence in him.
Stewart: "I just know that this board and several of the members want to have open processes and make sure the bases are covered. And I support that open process for ultimately the best person will receive the position."
Whoever is hired, would be sheriff for a short time. The position is up for election in May 2016. The interim position opens Friday. Applications are due by April 17th.
The Board hopes to have a Sheriff hired by the end of April.
