2018 Commissioner Questions

2018 County Commissioner Candidate Questionnaires
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QUESTION 1
Do you seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police for your position and why?
Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)
Commissioner President Reuben Collins

I absolutely seek the support of the Fraternal Order of Police because I believe that I am the most experienced and
qualified candidate seeking the office of Charles County Commissioner President. My knowledge of our
government gives me the ability to suggest the best approach to providing more resources for public safety.
Commissioner President Brian Klass
Yes, I am seeking and would be honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of the Charles County
Fraternal Order of Police. As a lifelong resident of Charles County, I’ve established relationships and respect for
the men and women of law enforcement in Charles County. My level of respect for law enforcement will
translate into open dialogue between our new Board of County Commissioners and FOP Lodge #24. Your
executive leadership and members will have direct access to your new Board of County Commissioners to
discuss issues related to compensation and benefits, with a complete understanding of the hard work your
members perform 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. I understand the sacrifices made by the members of FOP
Lodge #24 as you serve to protect our county.
Commissioner President Peter Murphy
District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)
District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

I do seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge . I am currently a 18 year
Member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 89, Prince Georges County. I am also a member of the Maryland
and National FOP. I am asking for your support as a Brother FOP member because I want to fight for the
membership of FOP Lodge #24 as a Charles County Commissioner. I have been a member of my home lodge
since 2000 and served for 7 years as a board member with my last board position as Secretary. I have been trained
through my local lodge in several areas to include: Pension Fund Trustee, Human Resources, Contract
Negotiation , HIPPA, Shop Steward Representation and Budget Management .
District 1 Commissioner Richard E. Cook
District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick
District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

Yes, I seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) for my candidacy for Charles
County Commissioner District-1.
As the certified representative of the sworn officers of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, FOP speaks for
hundreds of officers that we depend on to serve and protect our community. I consider FOP an important
stakeholder in our community and will work with you to improve the pay, training, and equipment for your
members, who put their lives on the line every day.
As a former union steward with AFSCME, I respect the right of employees to organize and engage in collective
bargaining with their employer. It keeps the peace and gives employees a voice.
In the long term, your members play a vital role in improving the quality of life of all our citizens and the
economic viability of our county. And, that is the essential reason I am running for Commissioner of District-1
and seeking your endorsement.
District 2 Commissioner Thomasina “Sina” Coates
I do seek endorsement from the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police, because I am indeed the most qualified
and the most experienced and the most committed to my community leader that is running for the job of County
Commissioner. I am engaged and ready for the job. I believe in the providing officers the necessary resources
and means to prioritize and insure the safety of the citizens (public) of this great county.
My commitment to this county (Charles County) goes back to my birth. I am a native born Charles County
resident whom has lived here all of my life. My family ties go back to Generals and Colonels in this
county. Standing on the shoulders of my ancestors I am very proud to speak about the love they as well as I have
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for our county. I live in White Plains, MD with my wonderful husband of 32 years. I have 2 wonderful
daughters and 2 wonderful granddaughters. I actively serve my community, as the Chair of the Charles County
Liquor Board, VP of the Southern Maryland Minority Chamber, Vice Chair of the Democratic Central
Committee, Member of the Women of Action serving the under privileged community, the Waldorf Rotary club,
a Point of Time volunteer for Lifestyle to get a count of the homeless, and Charles County Chamber of
Commerce to name a few. I’m the only candidate in District 2 that has the combination of education, experience
and community service that qualifies me to serve as County Commissioner. I have the expertise in managing
multi-million dollar budgets and projects. I have the expertise in writing and advocating legislation. I have
expertise in managing projects from beginning to end at the state and federal level. Last, but not least, I am an
entrepreneur of 2 business adventures.
District 2 Commissioner Ulysee Davis
Thank you for considering me in your endorsement process which I earnestly seek in order to realize the people's
vision for our beloved Charles County. Your heart and mind are for our police who risk limb and life to serve and
protect the people. I totally share your objective which I had the opportunity to explain when I launched my
candidacy. Hereunder is the full and complete rationale of my candidacy as published in the Maryland Independent
in January entitled Public Safety, First and Foremost (Community Oriented Policing System (COPS) and Police-
Supportive Community System (PSCS) in Charles County.
Specifically, my vision is to help our communities and our police to become a mutual keeper for each other. Our
police must continue to be oriented to serve and protect our communities under a Community-Oriented Policing
System (COPS); and our communities must be willing to support and trust our police officers under a Police-
Supportive Community System (PSCS).
It is good to say that we trust our police. It is even better to make sure that our police officers have the wherewithal
to keep us from harm. If public safety is recognized by us for what it is – first and foremost -, then it is time for our
Board of Commissioners to effects the first priority to public safety expenditures. I do not know of any taxpayer
who would consider public safety expenditure as second to any other.
District 2 Commissioner Tom Desalba
District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

Yes, I’m seeking the endorsement of the CCFOP because I running for Charles County Commissioner for District
2 to improve the quality of life for county residents.
District 2 Commissioner Charles “Chuck” McClam
District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

Yes, I, Brandon Paulin seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police because my family
have been members of DC F.O.P. Lodge 1 for over 20 years. My grandfather, Dad, and older brother have all
worked or are currently working for United States Capitol Police. Coming from a police family I deeply respect
and appreciate our officers who protect and serve our communities every day. I will work to ensure that our
officers in Charles County have the proper equipment, working conditions, benefits, and pay. I hold an open-door
policy. When elected, any officer or member of the FOP will have an open chair in my office.
District 2 Commissioner Brenda Thomas
I absolutely seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police because in obtaining such an
endorsement it would speak to MY support of the Charles County Police Department. Unfortunately, in today’s
climate of social media and the massive publicizing of those few officers that abuse their power, the public needs
to be assured that this “elected” official still values and supports the police department and the dedication and
sacrifice that is made daily by the good men and women in uniform
District 3 Commissioner John Ashburn
District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

As your Charles County Commissioner, I seek the endorsement of the FOP because I know I have done well with
supporting the Charles County Sheriff Department and I need your support. From supporting collective
bargaining to funding officer positions, I have been a supporter and advocate for CCSO. One of the first things I
did as commissioner was to have a ride-along. I wanted to talk with an officer and see first-hand what our officers
encounter every day. I have and will continue to support CCSO. For example, on May 1, 2018, I offered a
compromise to my colleagues on how we can get 6 new officers, not 4, without using the CCSO proposed FY 19
proposed money. I seek your endorsement because I made a commitment to the men and women of CCSO and
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have kept my word. I look forward to being your commissioner four more years. I look forward to us working
together to keep all Charles County residents safe.
District 3 Commissioner Derrick Terry
I seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police as the next Charles County
Commissioner-District 3 because I value and appreciate similar values that are intrinsically part of law
enforcement and my 28-year military reserves career. Our similar values are life, respect, fairness, trust,
partnerships, loyalty, and professionalism. I firmly believe in protecting my fellow man and woman and
regardless of our situations life is precious and should be defended and protected at all times. I was taught to
respect the law and enforce laws without infringing on basic human, civil, and constitutional rights. In addition, I
was raised to have integrity and treat all people with respect regardless of race, gender, race, creed, color,
religion, or national origin. Trusting in law enforcement makes it very easy to form community partnerships in
order to resolve problems for a better and safer Charles County. In closing, made an allegiance to protect and
defend the Constitution against enemies, foreign and domestic, but to also give back to my community with a
high level of professionalism similar to Charles County law enforcement.
District 3 Commissioner Greg Waring
District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

I seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police because I know county citizens support
the Sheriff Department.
District 4 Commissioner Max Larsen
District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

I 100% seek the endorsement of the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police. I have had a strong, long standing
relationship with the Sherriff’s Office and the FOP even prior to being an elected official though my businesses,
being a member of the Crime Solvers and throughout my volunteer efforts. I was honored to receive this
endorsement in 2010 and hope to receive this endorsement this election.
District 4 Commissioner Dyotha Sweat
Yes, I am a fearless and passionate public servant that possess the skill sets necessary to bridge the gaps in
Charles County. I believe in the value of listening to all sides to reach a resolution and that spirit of inclusion will
be of great benefit to the Fraternal Order.
QUESTION 2
What is your opinion regarding the Maryland Law Enforcement Officer's Bill of Rights, commonly referred
to as the LEOBOR and enumerated in Maryland Code; Public Safety; Title 3 Subtitle 1?

As you know I am a Defense Attorney which gives me a practitioner’s perspective of the Officers Bill of Rights.
As a mechanism to ensure that the rights of sworn officers are not violated when accused of wrongdoing, I generally
support the goals of the Bill of Rights. My experience as a defense attorney has made me critical of one Section,
RIGHT TO COUNSEL, (j)(ii)(2) which provides a ten-day period to find an attorney before the officer can be
interrogated. The right to counsel is a cherished constitutional right however the window of time has always been
a problem for me. A much shorter period such as two to five days would be viewed more favorably in my opinion.
That is my honest assessment.
After reviewing the LEOBOR, I believe this provides a strong foundation to support and protect the rights of our
law enforcement personnel. I believe these rights, coupled with the support our officers receive from their Local
FOP will ensure that an adequate roadmap is followed to resolve conflicts as they arise.
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I believe that LEOBOR is an essential right for law enforcement officers and would fight to ensure that officers
rights are upheld as well as LEOBOR.

I don’t have a problem with the LEOBOR. But, as is the case with any law, we must always be vigilant about
how it is used.
I believe in due process, respect and fairness. Law Enforcement Officers should always have a level of protection
necessary for them to do their job, with the utmost integrity and respect. I’m certain that this bills intent is to do
just that and give them the protection needed. I do believe this bill of rights is widely misunderstood and has its
challenges, but with most Bills of Rights those challenges can be worked out.
This Bill of Rights is great for law enforcement, but does the public feel the same? Perhaps you could debunk the
misunderstanding of this Bill of Rights intent to the public that the rights of all are respected, fair and justified, as
well as this Bill of Rights does is not give any party the right to commit unjust acts of misconduct and not be held
to the same standards.
More than an opinion, it is my conviction that our law enforcement officers – due to a very high degree of risk and
responsibility arising from their service and protection of the people from harm – must be provided with additional
privileges based on due process. We are a nation of laws. We are a state of laws. Without people to enforce these
laws - without the police – the people will be forced back to the laws of the jungle where only the fittest survive. If
we love our police, we need this extra layer of due process rights for their peace of mind.

I believe officers should be held to a higher standard due to the trust, responsibility, instilled in them. If trust is
lost or broken it could have a devastating impact.

I believe LEOBoR is essential to protecting Law Enforcement. The additional protections afforded to officers
under LEOBoR while On-Duty is necessary and if those protections were ever threatened to be taken away from
the Maryland General Assembly, I would advocate strongly on the corner of our law enforcement.
As I understand the Maryland Code as it relates to the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights, I believe it’s
reasonable.

My opinion of the LEOBOR comes from conversations with active and retired police offers and research. Like
other laws, it appears that the LEOBOR has been controversial. One concern is that it hinders management from
handling small infractions with officers. Some feel that the require process limits how supervisors can handle
their team. Another concern is that officers have 10 days before they have to issue a statement. I think many
people do not accept or understand the difference between a person that has the right to remain silent versus an
officer that must issue a statement. In my opinion, no matter what is in the Bill of Rights you will have people
challenging the policy/process. It is a difficult conversation.
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My opinion regarding the Maryland Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights commonly known referred to as
the LEOBOR and enumerated in Maryland Code; Public Safety; Title 3 Subtitle 1, is that each officer made an
oath to serve, protect, and accept all duties that come with it. I am not MD law enforcement officer but if there
are concerns in the Bill of Rights that officers feel should be addressed I firmly believe in taking it up with the
chain of command to express such concerns. As in military, I had to follow the Uniform Code of Military Justice
(UCMJ) and like the MD Law Enforcement Bill of Rights, the purpose and enforcement of any such document is
to promote justice, assist in maintaining good order and discipline, promote efficiency and effectiveness in and
thereby to strengthen our communities and the national security of the United States.

Without hiring legal counsel to review it for me I can only give a general statement of support. I support an
officer’s right to due process and protection from persecution from hostile administrations.

I believe the LEOBOR is paramount to our sworn Officers. It is important that the men and women who take the
oath to protect the citizens of our county also have protections should they be needed. Situations that our Officers
face are difficult and sometimes life threatening. Very often decisions have to be made quickly for the safety of
all. It is important that our Officers know they have rights that will protect them during times of investigations
and/or complaints.
I retired from the US Navy after serving 24 years. I learned to face challenges head-on while respecting authority.
I agree with the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association and the Maryland Sheriffs Association statement, “Law
enforcement's ability and willingness to hold its officers accountable is a critical part of enhancing trust between
agencies and communities”.
Question 3
Do you support the concept of what is known to or referred to as a citizen review board? If yes, describe the
composition, function, power and responsibility. If no, why?

I have been a long-term supporter of the concept of a Citizens Review Board. I drafted the citizens “advisory”
board proposal that the Charles County NAACP has submitted to the Board of Commissioners since 2002 when I
was chief counsel for the local branch. During the 2014 election, all of the candidates for County Commissioner
supported the appointment of some sort of “Advisory” Board. The issue has not been discussed in 2018. I am not
running on this issue however it has always been my position that this type of board creates an additional layer of
transparency which builds the public’s trust in law enforcement.
I support the concept of a citizen review board if the purpose of establishing this board is to build trust between
the CCSO and our community. I also believe adequate trust exists that a board is not now necessary. In the event
there is a breakdown in this trust, I would support a CRB that provides facts and makes recommendations. This
board should be weighted so that law enforcement professionals, with the Sheriff and the FOP as members, are
allowed a fair opportunity to collaborate with our citizens.

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I support the concept of a citizen review panel however I believe that the decision to implement should be the
decision made by the Sheriff, FOP and the Community. Citizen Review Panels should only have the ability to
review and present findings to the sheriff. The Citizen Review panel should not have subpoena power.

In general, I believe that a citizen’s review board may be warranted in some cities in America where the
relationship between the police and the community has deteriorated. But, that is not the case in Charles County.
Under Sheriff Berry, the relationship between the community, especially the black community, and the Sheriff’s
office is very good. And, one reason why is the increased trust between the Sheriff’s Office and the community.
So, when most people in the community feel that they are respected and treated fairly by the police they will
return that respect to the officers that we depend on to serve and protect us.
Therefore, a citizen’s review board in Charles County is unnecessary now, and I do not support establishing one.
A citizen’s review board is only as good as the people on the board. A CRB should only be necessary if there is
evidence of unjustified egregious acts of misconduct amongst the police force. My thoughts are that a CRB could
be limited and/or possibly be eliminated with the use of body cameras. If body cameras don’t minimize citizen
complaints the makeup of this board should be a collaborative effort, consisting of all invested stakeholders to
participate in the making up the policy in which the CRB should operate and function.
The idea that a Civilian Review Board – composed of non-police officers – is a good institution to review
complaints against police officers is vulnerable to serious doubts. One such serious doubt is that such Board might
be perceived as having authority to supervise the police over and above that of the county Sheriff. The demand – if
at all any - to provide thorough review and assessment of specific police abuses in Charles County, can
professionally be met by the Sheriff himself and his Internal Affairs. The fairness of any internal review process,
however, must safeguarded and guaranteed by the constitutional requirements of due process that dictates the
presumption of innocence. I disagree with the notion that a police officer is presumed guilty until proven innocent.

In 2005 I experienced a personal incident which I believed wasn’t handled properly within the local sheriff
department. Some individuals in and around our county felt and still feel citizens wouldn’t get a fair chance if
they filed a complaint against the sheriff office. At that time I supported the establishment of a local citizen
review board. Now with advancements in technology, body wore cameras, and other technology advances. I think
a citizen’s review board is not needed. A citizen’s advisor board or commission may be an alternative to hear
issues raised by citizens and provide solutions to the sheriff department.

I am weary about citizen review boards because some board members may not have a policing background and
understand policing policy, procedure, or training. Therefor those board members may not judge fairly or
according to the trained responses/procedures of the officers. Citizens review boards are also usually created
when, or in response to, a lack of trust between the community and its law enforcement agency. I believe there is
currently a great relationship between the people and Charles County Sheriff’s Office, therefor no need for a
citizen’s review board.
I do support the concept of what is known to or referred to a citizen review board because I believe in appropriate
“checks and balances.” I think such a board lends itself to transparency within the police department and avoids
the perception of the “police policing themselves.” I think that private citizens that sit on such a board should
have full access to any information in which they are providing an “opinion.” I use the word “opinion”
deliberately because I don’t think such a board should have power to make specific decisions regarding police
activities because private citizens would lack the specific training that Police Officers are subjected to or have the
real life “on the job” experiences that Police Officers are faced with. Having said that, I think there does need to
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be a voice that can provide a balanced perspective regarding a particular issue that may arise within the
department and while they may have no specific power, I believe they should be viewed as influential. I think the
composition of such a board should entail perhaps 6 to 8 citizens from various backgrounds, including
different ethnicities, political affiliations and careers (from professionals to a college student and everything in
between).
I support the idea of a citizen advisory board. But it is not a county commissioner’s responsibility to formulate
the board. It could be a sponsored commissioner’s board but it must be brought to the commissioners as a joint
effort from outside stakeholders. As commissioner, I spoke with officers, community advocacy organizations,
and community leaders early on in my term about this concept because I was asked this same question. I asked
varies questions regarding their concerns. Based on these discussions, I determined several things: 1) The
structure of the board was not general in nature. 2) The composition of the board was not a major obstacle. 3) The
request for this type of board came from people not trusting officers. Lastly, 4) I could not get a consensus on the
development of the board.
I believe the major obstacle in the creation of a citizen advisory board is that we need officers and community
leaders to agree that it is needed, the structure, and common goals. I believe we could use a board that acts as a
conduit for residents. For example, a board that publically recognizes the good work done in the community by
CCSO and how CCSO can help with neighborhood concerns. I believe a board that focused on areas similar to
these would help to continue to build positive relationship within our community.
I support the concept of a citizen review board only if the Sheriff’s Office and officers are in a majority agreement
to form one. I was appointed in 2011 or 2012 and the first concern I had was the formation of a review board
without a clear direction for its existence. We had a several meetings, made some suggestions to the
commissioners, but they have no legal authority to direct the Sheriff’s Office on its matters. I believe the
Sheriff’s Office has been very transparent and has an effective mechanism in place to address whatever concerns
citizens may have today. If the commissioners are going to be ardent proponents of a citizen review board then
they should apply the same to the commissioners. It should be comprised of seven members (3from organization,
3 citizens, and one minor between the ages of 16-17) and its function should be to address community concerns
and provide sensible solutions to the Sheriff’s Office. There should be no power given to the committee to
enforce solutions nor is should it be the responsibility of the committee to seek enforcement. All solutions should
be made public to ensure full transparency and leave the feasibility of solutions to the Sheriff’s Office.

I oppose in general citizens review boards. I don’t feel that the average citizen appreciates the life and death
situations that law enforcement is placed in. Officers want to go home to their families each day too!

I am not in favor of a citizens review board. I believe that we should have confidence in our Sherriff’s’ Office and
its Deputies to make the right choices, after all they risk their live for us. There are also several internal measures
that are already in place to review issues that may arise. I do not think adding another layer to the process is
necessary.
If there were going to be a citizens review board I believe it should be in an advisory capacity only and be made
up of citizens from all parts of the county. I would also want a member in leadership from the Sherriff’s Office
and the FOP to sit on the review board.
I support the concept of inclusion. With inclusion, you encourage innovation. While I do support citizen review
boards, I feel that it is important to utilize subject matter experts and citizen trained to understand criminal justice.
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QUESTION 4
What would your plan or assistance be to assist the Sheriff’s Office with recruiting new officers? Such as tax
breaks, housing incentives, signing bonuses.

If elected as Board President I will propose that the Sheriff’s Office and the County sign a Memorandum of
Understanding which sets forth agreed upon salary increases in two-year intervals. I would encourage the
participation of the FOP as a partner in the process. I would also propose that the two-year MOU’s be signed
with Charles County Public Schools as well. The process I believe would make it easier to budget salaries for our
two largest agencies. I would propose that this MOU alternative be incorporated into the collective bargaining
process.
I will fully support all initiatives that assist the CCSO in recruiting AND RETAINING quality officers. I believe
the hard work our officers perform should be reflected in their pay and benefits. Any police officer who chooses
to live in Charles County should have their transfer and recordation taxes waived on the purchase of their new
home. To offset the higher costs of living relative to neighboring counties, I would also recommend and support
an annual locality bonus for those in law enforcement that make the choice to work AND live in Charles County.

I would like to increase the starting pay for sheriff’s deputies, promote lateral transfers by providing property tax
credits for Law enforcement officers whom live in Charles County.

This question raises an issue that needs to be addressed not only for the Sheriff’s office, but for the teachers, and
emergency workers as well.
I would continue to support the “take home car program” and seriously look at implementing a signing bonus. I
will support programs to help applicants with poor credit and minor offense records, but otherwise qualified, to
qualify for appointment. I will make workforce housing a priority.
In the long term, I plan to work very hard to make Charles County much more business friendly. In doing so, we
will have more commercial tax revenue to increase starting salaries for new recruits. I recognize we are in a
buyer’s market, and that we must do everything feasible to be competitive.
As a Commissioner, I would support a plan from the Sheriff's Office consisting of the necessary means to
recruiting and sustaining new offers. I believe recruiting is a personnel matter and should be conducted internally
within the Sheriff’s Office and deserves the commissioner’s support.
A police officer is like everybody else who dreams to provide for his family the abundant life – food, shelter,
clothing, vehicle, and other things. But most important is the college education of the children. University education
is a very expensive stuff in America. I propose a comprehensive review of available resources – from both public
and private sectors – that can assist in the collegiate education of a police officer's child. In addition, I support all
tax breaks, housing incentives, and signing bonuses for those who serve and protect us from harm.

I support tax incentives for recruitment and incentives for retention.
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I would look into signing bonuses and competitive starting pay. Having to compete with the D.C. Metro area is a
reality in Charles County. We have to do better when it comes to being competitive to attract officers AND retain
them long term as well.
The first plan would be to provide more money to fund new officers, secondly, I think housing incentives and
signing bonuses are definitely something that could be appealing and would not be opposed to it. With respect to
tax breaks, I think knowing what an overall Charles County budget would look like at the time that such tax break
would be proposed and the impact on the budget would help me to provide a more accurate response. So I would
defer the answer.

As commissioner, I have had conversations with a major builder in the county to see if we can create incentive
packages for officers, teachers, professional EMT, etc. in addition to the program we already have in place for
staff. I believe as a community it’s the least we can do for the people that protect us, teach our children, and
provide aid. Additionally, as commissioner, I will continue to work to make budget discussions that will support
raises and additional positions. Our growth policies and improvement of the CCPS will also help to attract
officers to this area. I know first-hand that it is not a one-way approach. It is a multi-faceted approach that will
get officers here and equally important to retain officers.
I would work collaboratively with the Sheriff’s Office to provide tax breaks, housing incentives, and/or signing
bonuses. As a commissioner, I will have a duty to ensure that the Sheriff’s Office is fully and equitably funded at
the same pace as our largest recipient of our tax dollars--Charles County Public Schools. I want our schools to be
great but if Charles County does not have adequate staffing, properly trained officers, and long-term plan in place
to recruit and retain our finest, then Charles County is setting itself up potential public safety crisis. As your next
commissioner I simply can’t allow that to happen nor should our citizens.

I want to grow the commercial and industrial tax base so that we can hire more officers. Without more revenue,
tax breaks, housing incentives and signing bonuses are just empty promises.

Over the years I have worked closely with Sherriff Berry to find the funding needed to not only provide new
officers but to increase the starting salaries of the officers. In FY18 and now again in FY19 I worked with
Commissioner Davis in presenting cost cutting measures from Commissioners “pet projects” so that we can
provide the funding needed to the Sherriff’s Office.
As for housing incentives, I think it is important that we continue to provide the $5,000 House Keys for
Employees and the $1000 Smart Keys for Employees funding. I would be open to ideas for additional grants for
housing for our Officers as well.
I would be in favor of providing sign on bonuses but again believe the actual starting salaries need to be increased
to a level that is competitive.
I believe you cannot achieve the true essence of diversity without inclusion. I want local law
enforcement “to have a seat at the table”. It is important that law enforcement officers feel confident in the
support of their county leadership. I would also encourage opportunities for advancement and greater community
involvement. I understand that some officers prefer to live outside of the jurisdiction that they work in, I think
that we can create partnerships with neighboring counties to satisfy those desires.
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Question 5
Will you support the inclusion of binding interest arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration as it
pertains to the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police's collective bargaining agreement? If so why? If
not why?

I absolutely support the concept of collective bargaining/binding arbitration between the FOP and the executive
branch (Commissioners). My only question would be who is the designated third party under binding interest? I
would as President of the Board of Commissioners initiate the process of creating a joint task force with the FOP
to choose an established arbitrator. I have no problem incorporating binding grievance arbitration in the process.
The Sheriff’s role in the transition would have to be agreed upon by both sides.
I believe in and support the inclusion of binding arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration for Charles
County’s FOP collective bargaining agreement. I believe collective bargaining strengthens our law enforcement
community and allows for better outcomes as it relates to pay and benefits for our officers. Binding arbitration is
a quicker and more effective means of problem resolution. I fundamentally believe that open communication and
a respect for the hard work done by our law enforcement professionals is the key to working together.

I fully support Collective Bargaining and Binding Arbitration for the Charles County Sheriffs Department. I
currently benefit from Collective Bargaining and binding arbitration in my union and wish for my fellow officers
in Charles County to have the same Benefit. I believe this is a fair and proper way for employees and employers
to negotiate pay and benefits.

Yes, but non-negotiable areas reserved for the county and Sheriff must be respected. I don’t see the rationale for
not having binding arbitration in all other areas. If the two parties cannot agree, there is nothing wrong with
having a mutually acceptable third party render a decision that both parties must live with.
Yes, I would be in favor of the inclusion of binding interest arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration as
it pertains to Charles County FOP. As a Federal worker I belonged to the union for many years and of the belief
that bargaining unit worker’s deserve to have their independents and a voice within the government. I am in full
support of having a unionized FOP giving the workers more lobbying power and dispute resolution through a
binding arbitration agreement…100% in agreement.
Because we are a democracy, there are disputes among parties – then and now. Even when agreements have been
collectively bargained, there will arise disputes inevitably. But the American System is equipped with the necessary
resources and mechanisms to fix its challenges. One such mechanism affords bargaining parties to agree to subject
future disputes to arbitration when it occurs and bind the same parties to accept the terms of the third neutral party
called the arbitrator. The other mechanism is the binding grievance arbitration where a third neutral party, the
arbitrator, seeks to find the facts relative to the violation of the collective agreement and which party is responsible
therefor. I strongly support both mechanisms for the peace of all parties.

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Yes I fully support the opportunity for collective bargaining at all levels.

I strongly support binding arbitration. I’m in favor of coming to the table with reasonable intentions, with binding
arbitration that allows the County to make the decision to negotiate fairly or arbitration proceedings make the
decisions for them.
I am in favor of binding arbitration. It allows both sides to sit down at the table and present their arguments to an
impartial person who would/should be making an impartial decision without bias. When used correctly, I think it
provides more of a win situation for both parties rather than a one sidedoutcome.

In 2014, my answer to this question was….“I support collective bargaining. We need to make sure we have
checks and balances to ensure that our officers earn a good wage and work conditions are exceptional. We can do
better by ensuring both sides feel empower.” I am proud of the work Charles County Government and the CCSO
have done to improve contact negotiations. I strongly believe that when two parties have an accepted process, it
helps to have a positive outcome on contract negotiations. I kept my word. I supported collective bargaining then
and will continue to do so.
I will support the inclusion of binding interest arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration as it pertains to
the Charles County Fraternal Order of Police’s collective bargaining agreement. As a teacher’s union (building
representative) member myself, I value the hard work and sense of fairness it allows for all employees in the good
and bad times. Law enforcement and all other unionized workers need a strong yet civil voice commissioner that
will listen and act on your needs and possible grievance arbitration.

No. I don’t want to legally handicap the Commissioners if tough budget decisions is required.

Yes I would support binding interest arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration for the Charles County
Fraternal Order of Police. I was 100% behind and in support of, the collective bargaining agreement. I feel the
addition of binding interest and grievance arbitration will allow our Officers to have a better sense of security
when it comes to their collective bargaining rights. They will have the protection of an additional process should
the county not honor their commitment.
I will support the inclusion of binding interest arbitration as well as binding grievance arbitration. I understand
the difficulties in negotiations when both parties have constituents that they need to report back to. A mediator
can stimulate fair compromise and offer solutions that both parties may not be able to see.
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Question 6
Would you like to provide the members of the Sheriff’s Office any other information regarding your
candidacy?

I will continue to support law enforcement by committing my time to building the county’s commercial tax base.
This is critical to our county’s long term fiscal health. Without a robust commercial base (business development)
we will be forced to rely on individual citizens through personal and property taxes to fund all aspects of our
government. We cannot sustain our economy under that approach. I believe that law enforcement is a priority
funding area along with education. We are therefore tasked with finding ways to fully fund the needs of law
enforcement and public safety in general.
I am running to be Charles County’s next Commissioner President because I love living and working in Charles
County. As you, I also want to serve. As a military veteran, I fully understand the sacrifices made by those that
choose to serve. I stood watch at 2am on Nuclear Powered Submarines, knowing most people weren’t aware of
what I was doing or the responsibilities we had. It is the same for our police officers. I sleep well at night
knowing that you’re watching over me, my wife, and 3 children. I know the sacrifices you make. You will
receive the level of respect you deserve from our next Board of County Commissioners.

I have been a Police Officer for over 18 years and a proud FOP member for the same. I have enjoyed a very
positive and Fraternal relationship with many of the members of FOP Lodge 24 for at least the last 10 years. It
would be a great honor to represent my fellow law enforcement Brothers and Sisters as your next Charles County
Commissioner for District 1. I look forward to working with your members to create policy that will positively
impact your members and the Fraternal Order of Police.

Yes, I will encourage the Sheriff’s Office to participate in long term integrate planning with the county and the
Board of Education and to conduct regular management audits. Also, I am a former two term city councilor. See
the attached brochure for my education, experience, and community service.

I would like to thank the FOP for giving me the opportunity to respond to these questions and demonstrating that
I am the most qualified candidate to serve as your District 2 Commissioner. It would be an honor to have your
endorsement. Thank you!
One, Public Safety is First and Foremost. Where public safety cannot subsist, economic development, best
education, employment, infrastructures, environmental protection, freedom of religion, freedom of speech and
assembly, rest and vacation, community gatherings, shopping, athletics, and everything available in an abundant
life become pipe dreams. Thus, when considering any public expenditure, the number one priority should be on
public safety. It is good that crimes have been reduced by 29%. How about reducing crime to zero? Charles County
cannot afford to be less safe.
Two, Public Safety can only be sustained by two companion systems. One, the Community-Oriented Policing
System (COPS) where the police are regularly visible and available in the communities they serve and protect.
Two, the Police-Supportive Community System (PSCS) where communities such as geographic subdivisions of
housing units openly trust and support their police. In the South Hampton community, we have two annual events
Page 13 of 15
to demonstrate and without any reservation our trust and support to the Sherriff and his officers Walk With Your
Police in May and Cookout With The Police in August. We are not afraid of our police. We are proud of them.

Vision Charles County 2018 Primary Election
As a County Commissioner I have experience which will help in managing our county’s 401 million dollar
annual budget.
Economic development
• Creating jobs, livable wage earning jobs, creating opportunities for businesses to expand
• Repealing and replacing the (WCD) Watershed Conservation District.
• Supporting the Maryland Airport for economic development in District 2 as well as for the rest of our
County.
• Increasing the commercial county revenue source to offset lowing county resident’s residential taxes.
• Begin to market Charles County within the Baltimore, Washington, Richmond, and Region. Charles Co.
is located center of Richmond & Baltimore.
• Creating green jobs and opportunities for environmental reusable energy.
• Protecting and utilizing our natural resources as a revenue source.
• Support our military facilities.
• Work to strengthen our workforce and affordable housing.
• Work to improve our status on the Charles County United Way Alice Report.
Education
• Support fully funding the following for our school system:
• Teachers’ salaries increases
• Support staff salaries increases
• New school construction and renovation projects
Transportation
• Improving transportation within, and around Charles County.
• Revisiting the Western County Parkway project.
• Light Rail
• Restoring the Metro W19 commuter bus route for residents in District 2.
77% of County residents commute outside of our county for work.
Public Safety
• Fully supporting and funding the following agencies:
• Sheriff department
• EMS
• Firefighters
• Public works employees
Recreational Activities
• Recreating a Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maryland center in Charles County.
• Creating and reducing the cost of before and aftercare as well as creating opportunities for existing hours
as 77% of county residents commutes outside of Charles for employment with commuting times
increasing.
• Create and support programs and activities for teenagers and young adults and young families, working
families as well as senior residents.
• Since Charles Co. is surrounded by water, creating a revenue source of a water park, and similar sources
of revenue.

I would remove the County Attorney from the SORP committee. I would keep the DROP plan and expand that
into Corrections. I will always have open lines of communication and will be an advocate for any future benefits
Page 14 of 15
regarding the Charles County Sherriff’s Office. Thank you for reviewing my questionnaire and I look forward to
working with you in the future.
I am new to politics and don’t really care for it. But what I do care about is Charles County and the quality of
life, we as citizens, should expect. I’m for common sense government and support of those who support the
citizens. I have served the poorest within Charles County and believe that I can serve all of its citizens equally,
given the chance. I have no hidden agendas and no special interest groups to please. I’m not afraid to voice my
opinion and while I may not be as polished as some, it doesn’t and shouldn’t affect my ability to represent
District 2. Thank you for your support.

As a commissioner, I will continue to support the CCSO. I still believe we need to work more with the school
system to see how we can increase our young cadet program. I look at this program as a recruitment tool. I want
to see more opportunities for officers to be in the high schools building positive relationships. As commissioner, I
would support an officer and students program. As you know, we are about to pass a budget that places six
million dollars of security upgrades at our schools. This is great, but I would also like to help support relationship
building in our schools. I think you all for keeping our county safe. I want to continue to work for you. I am a
service-minded individual. I place value on the people that are providing our county services. From our officers
to our EMT, with your help I will serve four more years.
Following in my dad’s footsteps, I joined the Maryland Army National Guard in 1989 later transferred to the
Maryland Air National Guard until I retired with the U.S. Air Force Reserves. Wanting to serve my county, I
knew I would not be rich in money or fame but I knew I would be rich in pride, integrity, and honor. Being part
of something bigger than me required sacrifice, commitment, and selflessness and I truly know law enforcement
is no different.
This is why I want to be Charles County Commissioner-District 3. Charles County deserves elected public
servants, not politicians that will truly be transparent, honest, and accountable to you versus no one.
Everyone deserves a seat at the table but you first need the opportunity to be heard and listened to. I will hear and
listen to you and understand we all can agree to disagree with civility and respect. As your next Commissioner, I
will work to find common ground and sensible solutions to address not only your issues but the citizens of
Charles County.

My father and uncle were DC police officers. I know what it’s like to wonder if dad is coming home today.

Unless our County is safe we cannot thrive. We need to grow our commercial and industrial tax base so that we
can fully fund our Sherriff’s Office and provide the additional resources needed not only to grow our force but to
provide the tools, technology and facilities needed. It is shameful that each year our Sherriff has to all but beg for
the funding needed. We cannot continue to waste money on unnecessary projects, salaries and departments in the
county while we lack funding public safety. We have a goldmine in Western Charles with the Maryland Airport
and our close proximity to the Nation’s Capital and we need to open it back up for business. We need to create
jobs here in Charles County so that we can lower our taxes while still providing services our citizens deserve and
expect.
In conclusion, I have lived and/or owned businesses in Charles County since 1983. During this time I have built
relationships with our Sherriff’s Office and its Deputies. I have supported the Shop with a Cop program over the
last ten years and the Torch Run for the last six years. I have also been a member of the Charles County Crime
Solvers since 2006 and am currently an honorary member. I am proud of the men and women of our Sherriff’s
Office and would be honored to have their endorsement again in 2018.
Page 15 of 15

Yes, my candidacy is on the basis of grassroots efforts with individuals from the community from all walks of
life. I am a strong supporter of community and being an advocate for those who have no one in their corner.

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2018 Commissioner Questions

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2018 County Commissioner Candidate Questionnaires

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)

District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick

District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

District 3 Commissioner Greg Waring

District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)

District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick

District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

District 3 Commissioner Greg Waring

District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)

District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick

District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

District 3 Commissioner Greg Waring

District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)

District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick

District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

District 2 Commissioner Charles “Chuck” McClam

District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)

District 1 Commissioner Gilbert BJ Bowling

District 1 Commissioner Leigha Messick

District 1 Commissioner Matt Nolan Wills

District 2 Commissioner Jason Henry

District 2 Commissioner Brandon Paulin

District 3 Commissioner Amanda Stewart

District 4 Commissioner James Ashburn (R)

District 4 Commissioner Bobby Rucci

Commissioner President Henry Thompson (R)

Commissioner President Reuben Collins

District 1 Commissioner Joe Crawford (R)