As I have done for the past few years, I would like to take the first few articles on 2023 and use them as a method by which to provide an “Annual Report” to the community. My primary reason behind this effort is to maintain connection and accountability to the community I have been elected to serve. The position of Sheriff is a unique office which dates back to the founding of our country. It is one of the only positions articulated in the State of Wisconsin Constitution and very clearly articulates that my responsibility and accountability is directly to the people of the County. I take this relationship very seriously, and it is that direct relationship to my community that drives my every action and decision. With that being said, I would like to start with an overview of the Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department.
The Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department provides law enforcement services for our entire community which includes Traffic Enforcement, Public Safety Dispatch, Corrections, Criminal Investigations, School Liaison, Court Security, and Civil Process. Our total staff consists of 36 men and women who carry out a majority these tasks 24 hours a day/ seven days a week with the highest level of Professionalism and Integrity. We also provide support to our local municipal law enforcement agencies as well as those state law enforcement resources serving within our county. Our collaboration also extends to other county non-law enforcement agencies serving our community in which we have a common goal, such as Human Services and Public Health.
Our annual Budget for 2022 was $4,269,355.00 spread out over numerous line items, which covers everything from inmate care to fuel, to building maintenance with a vast majority of that amount utilized in supporting the wages and benefits of our greatest resource, our staff. As in the past, we pride ourselves in staying within the budget provided and have done so each and every year, with rare exception. While we do generate some revenue in the form of fees and services, our primary funding is derived from our annual allocated budget. We are very grateful for the support we receive from our County Board along with the professional guidance we receive from both our County Administrator and our Finance Director.
In the upcoming articles, I will be providing a breakdown of information and activities by each of our divisions, to provide what I hope will be a brief yet informative glimpse into the day-to-day operations of the Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department. If at any time you have any questions, or would like clarity on an item which I cover, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. As I begin my fifth term as your Sheriff, I want to re-confirm my commitment to our community and extend my sincere gratitude for being trusted to serve in this capacity. I can be reached at (920)255-1100.
