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This article has been updated with answers from candidate Maurice Cook.
Two Republican candidates are in the running for Bastrop County sheriff.
Candidates Jeff Gogolewski and incumbent Maurice Cook can be found on the 2024 primary ballot.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Community Impact is only publishing Q&As for contested races.
What will be your biggest focuses as sheriff if elected?
Community engagement, fostering trust and implementing effective crime prevention strategies. In addition, increasing the number of corrections officers in the jail to an acceptable number in order to safely manage the county inmates. This will be done by utilizing and coordinating job fairs.
Why are you the most qualified candidate for this position?
I possess strong leadership, law enforcement experience, community collaboration skills and a commitment to fairness. These traits should be emphasized in order to ensure effective and equitable law enforcement for the community's well-being. Additionally, I possess the intestinal fortitude to get the job done.
If elected, what will you do to establish/maintain trust between law enforcement and Bastrop County residents?
Being transparent. This builds trust, fosters accountability and enhances public confidence. It allows for open communication, reduces suspicion and demonstrates a commitment to honesty. In law enforcement, transparency can lead to a stronger connection between the community and officers, ultimately promoting a safer and more cooperative environment.
As the Bastrop County population grows, how do you plan to help the police department accommodate the change?
As sheriff, I'll collaborate with stakeholders to assess needs, allocate resources efficiently and implement shared training programs. I will assist the Bastrop Police Department with emphasizing community-oriented policing and utilizing technology for enhanced efficiency in order to ensure both the police department, and sheriff's office, adapts effectively to growth.
What will be your biggest focuses as sheriff if elected?
Continue to improve the many programs already in place, a full discussion of which, far exceed the space provided for this response. Public Safety is of the highest priority using the current resources to maximize effectiveness. To improve public safety training, recruitment, retention, and community involvement are necessary companions.
Why are you the most qualified candidate for this position?
My many years of experience, training, and education level enhance my ability to carry out the duties as Sheriff. Having years of executive management experience and training provide the necessary background to represent residents of Bastrop County in their public safety needs. Background experience is absolutely essential for being Sheriff.
If elected, what will you do to establish/maintain trust between law enforcement and Bastrop County residents?
Establishing trust and integrity is a very key part of my administration which I have practiced my entire time in office not just at election time. I have been engaged with the entire county community on many area events including church functions and fund raising events to support our community.
As the Bastrop County population grows, how do you plan to help the police department accommodate the change?
Our growing county demands the need for change and forward thinking. I have already been involved with many programs and planning committees which focus on change due to growth trends. I will work with county leaders to embrace growth by seeking out the best approach for Bastrop County.
