“I want to continue to serve Appanoose County the best I can and that is what I hope to do,” he said.

Matthew Messamaker

Matthew Messamaker said he would like to make some necessary changes if elected Appanoose County Sheriff.

One issue that he would like to concentrate on the sheriff’s budget.

“I would like to trim it down to where not as much is being cut out,” he said.

Right now he said the sheriff’s budget is around $1.3 million, and he thinks there are things that can be cut from that which will make it more efficient, such as unnecessary travel and some training.

“We have had our sheriff go to several classes and he doesn’t pass what he learns onto the other deputies,” Messamaker claims.

He also said he would like to begin another D.A.R.E. program, working with middle and high school students.

“We want the kids to be able to trust us and know that we are here if they have a problem at school or home, and that they can call us and we can help,” Messamaker said.

“I know what the people want,” he said. “With all the money that is being spent on law enforcement, the people aren’t seeing anything in return.”

Messamaker said county residents trust him and he believes he possesses qualities that would make him a good sheriff.

He has served three years on the Centerville Police Reserves and is a native of Centerville. He said he was asked by residents to run for public office.

“I think I have what it takes to provide better service to the citizens in Appanoose County,” Messamaker said.

Scott Niles can be reached at (641) 683-5360 or via e-mail at sjniles@mchsi.com.