Chris Nichols is a Republican running for Jackson County Sheriff. See his response to the Mainstreet Newspaper candidate questionnaire below:
If you are the challenger, or running for an open seat, what do you hope to accomplish if elected to this position? What would you do differently from what’s being done now or in the past?
If elected sheriff, my primary goal is to promote the safety and well-being of our community. That means working to rapidly modernize the department to deter crime coming from metro-Atlanta.
Strategic Planning for Growth: The Jackson County of today is vastly different than the Jackson County of yesterday, and it's continuing to change every day. If we are going to handle this growth and deter the crime that typically comes with it, we need to modernize the department. I’m the only candidate in the race with an extensive background serving OUTSIDE of Jackson County. Our next Sheriff will oversee significant changes and will adopt new technology for the department. These changes and new technology won’t be new to me, and I’m the only candidate that can say that.
Training and Professional Development: Our employees are our greatest asset. I am committed to providing them with ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure they have the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles, especially as our county evolves.
Collaboration with Other Agencies: Addressing complex issues requires collaboration. I've partnered with federal agencies to help execute one of the biggest drug busts in north Georgia. This type of collaboration is key! If we are going to prevent the rapid growth in this county from increasing crime, it will require this type of collaborative mindset.
Adapting to Changing Needs: I am committed to adapting our approach based on feedback and evolving needs. Flexibility and willingness to embrace change will be key to effectively serving our community amidst growth and development.
Less-Lethal Tools for De-escalation: I plan to provide our deputies with additional tools to protect themselves and our community. These tools can provide additional options for our deputies to resolve conflicts, thereby reducing the risk of injury or loss of life to the person or deputy.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I am the best candidate due to my extensive law enforcement experience, commitment to the community, and proven track record of effective leadership. With over two decades of service in law enforcement, I bring a unique perspective and skill set to addressing the challenges posed by Jackson County's growing population.
I have worked in rural and urban communities, engaged with citizens to implement crime prevention strategies, and coordinated responses to various public safety concerns and large events.
With a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from The University of Georgia and a master’s in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University, I possess a solid foundation in leadership and management in law enforcement.
I will use my experience, education, and dedication to ensure that Jackson County remains a safe community. I will work tirelessly to plan ahead, engage with the community, and equip deputies with the necessary training and tools to effectively address emerging public safety challenges.
What is the most important issue you see that involves the position you are running for?
The most crucial issue facing the sheriff's office is undoubtedly preparing for the increase in population and the growth of the county.
As our county grows, so do the demands on law enforcement. We need proactive strategies in place to address the challenges that come with a larger population. This means investing in technology, enhancing community engagement efforts, and providing our deputies with the training and resources they need to succeed.
We must prepare now for the growth we expect to see. By taking proactive steps to modernize and adapt, we can ensure that the sheriff's office remains responsive, effective, and capable of meeting the needs of our expanding community.
Tell voters a little about yourself and your background:
I have over 24 years of experience in public safety, with diverse roles and responsibilities. I am dedicated to serving the community and I seek to become your next sheriff.
I live in South Jackson with my wife, Carmen, and our three children, all active in the Jackson County School System. Carmen, a Jackson County native, teaches at the Preschool at First Baptist Church of Jefferson and is completing her master’s degree in Special Education at UGA.
I am originally from Hartwell, GA, an agricultural community much like Jackson County. I began my law enforcement career as a dispatcher for the Hart County and Elbert County Sheriff’s Offices. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from The University of Georgia and a master’s in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University. I successfully completed the IACP Leadership in Police Organizations program and the GACP Chief Executive Training Course, more commonly known as “Police Chief School.”
Since 2001, I have been with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, where I’ve held positions ranging from patrol officer to Division Commander. I have extensive experience in criminal investigations, overseeing major operations resulting in significant arrests and forfeitures.
I am currently a Division Commander, responsible for the Administrative Services Division, managing various units and a $3.1 million budget. I am certified trainer in several law enforcement specialties and actively train community members in active shooter response.
Beyond law enforcement, I am an EMT and support emergency medical response training for law enforcement. I’m involved in community organizations, serving on the Jackson County Water and Sewerage Authority Board, serve as a board member on a local non-profit charity, am a member of the NEGA Medical Reserve Corps, and am a strong advocate for our schools and educational programs.
I firmly believe that the power of the police comes from the common consent of the public, as opposed to the power of the state. Outside work, my family and I are active in church and community events.
The sheriff’s office is the largest single area of county government. But there has been an ongoing staffing shortage both in the jail operations and general law enforcement operations. What do you propose to do differently to help attract more staffing to the department?
To address the ongoing staffing shortage within the sheriff's office, several strategies can be considered to attract and retain more personnel. Additionally, it's important to recognize that employees who are happy and satisfied with their work environment will naturally recruit additional personnel, contributing to a positive cycle of recruitment and retention.
Competitive Compensation Packages: Review and adjust salary and benefits packages to make them more competitive with neighboring law enforcement agencies and local private sector jobs. Offering hiring and recruitment incentives, retention incentives such as step plans, and performance-based incentives can attract candidates. However, it's important to recognize that higher salaries may bring employees in the door but will not retain them if they do not feel valued and see room for growth.
Career Development Opportunities: Offer clear pathways for career advancement and professional growth within the sheriff’s office. Providing opportunities for training, mentoring, and skill development can help employees feel challenged and motivated to progress in their careers.
Transparent Leadership and Decision-Making: Foster a culture of transparency and inclusivity in leadership and decision-making processes. Keeping employees informed about organizational goals, initiatives, and changes builds trust and confidence in leadership.
Comprehensive Training Programs: Utilize comprehensive training programs to ensure that new employees are well-prepared for their roles. Providing ongoing professional development opportunities can also help retain existing staff and attract prospective candidates seeking career advancement.
Up-to-date Equipment and Technology: Ensure that employees have access to modern equipment, technology, and resources to perform their duties safely and efficiently. Regularly updating equipment and providing necessary tools demonstrate a commitment to employee welfare and operational effectiveness.
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