To the editor:

There are many important factors and candidates to consider in the upcoming Nov. 5 election. While the national election may be dominating the spotlight, local elections are incredibly important — and often impact our lives more directly than the national. There is one particularly awesome candidate in our local elections for Webster County — and that’s Trevir Michehl for sheriff.

For one, I think it’s important in a democratic republic that we have choices. I am grateful to Trevir for running and providing us in Webster County a choice rather than just another unopposed election (as we know that these can frequently afflict local positions).

More than that, though, Trevir is providing a real choice — his message and vision for the county is a strong contrast to the incumbent, and it’s a contrast we deeply need. I’ve gotten to know Trevir better this year, and I appreciate that he is a man of character who boldly speaks his convictions when he sees the need. That’s why he stepped-up as a candidate and was offered the nomination of the Libertarian Party due to strong interest and support for his candidacy.

One of Trevir’s best attributes is his selflessness — the man tirelessly works to help others and bring people together. Trevir emphasizes reaching across the aisle and working with all different kinds of people. This diplomatic skill is very important since the Sheriff’s Office has to work closely with multiple municipalities and police departments. Trevir comes to his conclusions based on truly listening to the concerns of the citizens and law enforcement professionals. I think this will be incredibly important to find a new path for the Webster County Jail, which is suffering from crippling over-crowding, and requires a leader who advocates for a plan that works for all of us rather than merely his own preference.

Lastly, Trevir is both tough and fair — knowing how to spring into action when safety requires it while maintaining a calm and level head in the process. Trevir’s work in the 2013 Swanson eluding case — where Trevir was the arresting officer and received praise from multiple public officials for his proactive mindset and poise on the scene — is a prime example of his guts and integrity.

I will be casting my vote for the Libertarian Party nominee for Webster County sheriff — Trevir Michehl. I want to encourage all Webster County citizens to do the same — regardless of their party affiliation. Trevir is bringing Democrats, Republicans, and independents together — and we need a unifier in the Sheriff’s Office. We need to move beyond an era of the office where it receives civil rights complaints for harassment. I am confident Trevir Michehl can move the office forward — making Webster County feel proud of their sheriff and, most importantly, safe. There are only two candidates for sheriff this fall — vote for Trevir and make it count.

Collin Ellsbury

Fort Dodge