By Roger Gitlin – EYE ON DEL NORTE – March 21, 2022 Former Sheriff Dean Wilson has declared his candidacy for the Del Norte 5th District Board of Supervisors vacancy created by the passing of Supervisor Berkowitz. Candidate Wilson joins a crowded field of four others for the June 7th election. Wilson brings an impressive and experienced resume' to the County Supervisor position: * Three term Sheriff (2002-14). * 23 years law enforcement experience on the Crescent City Police Department.* California State University, Sacramento, B.A. in Criminology * Working directly with Sacramento in developing law enforcement legislation. * Business owner(Ocean World). When I asked the Sheriff why he's running for the BOS, he responded , " It has always been my intent to run. Sadly, the passing of Bob created an unanticipated opening on the Board and I filed my papers." Wilson cites his experience as Sheriff and managing a large Sheriff budget with no shortage of financial challenges as helpful in addressing community/constituent needs and developing important partnerships to accomplish goals. Wilson acknowledges State and National gov'ts often interfere with good local governance. Wilson hopes to "…get government out of the way"… with local government. The Del Norte native observes significant State interference with our community. Goals: * Revitalize the Del Norte County economy post Covid. * Waive strict CEQUA (California Environmental Quality Act) requirements to rebuild and seek an alternative route around Last Chance Grade. Candidate Wilson sees many flaws in re-building the existing route. He declares, " A by-pass is an absolute necessity. " * Supervisor candidate Wilson emphatically supports unimpeded access to the Forests, Fisheries and Timber interests. for visitor and local alike and underscores the need for access to reduce the all-too common and very destructive wildfires. He continues, " Del Norte County needs to stand up and tall to the oft-inserting power reach by Federal and State agencies. Wilson shared some interesting insight on just- recently resigned Sheriff Randy Waltz. Wilson sees a bit of an overreach by the DA which strayed into serious felony charges re: residency and perjury issues. Wilson sees the flaw in the law which should not equate to a felony level. Wilson points put the issue with Randy Waltz could have and should been handled in a much less severe punitive matter. Wilson shared his thoughts on addressing systemic homelessness. "The State tends to throw more and more money at this growing problem, while failing to address satisfactory solutions." Wilson did not and would not support a project of the nature of the $2.4 million purchase of the Coastal Inn and Suites between the 101s, WITHOUT Crescent City Support. Wilson points out Del Norte County and the BOS bypassed the City without consulting or seeking Council approval." With elections come change," says Dean Wilson." I hope to be a part of that change. "