Storey sheriff announces he's running

VIRGINIA CITY - Jim Miller announced Monday he intends to run for Storey County sheriff, the position to which he was appointed in March.

"I'm proud of what we've accomplished in just a few months. We are moving in the right direction to ensure that this is the best sheriff's department possible. Storey County is a very unique community encompassing tourism, industry and both town and rural residential areas. The problems in each of these areas are specific and have required innovative cost-effective solutions," he said.

Miller noted he has reorganized the department structure for more effective coverage, adopted a "zero tolerance" policy for drugs, improved community involvement and communication, improved school safety and increased visibility.

In March, Miller beat out five other hopefuls when he was appointed to the position by Storey County commissioners. He was picked to fill the spot left vacant by the resignation of Pat Whitten, who left the sheriff's department for a job as administration and budget director for the county.

Miller, a 1968 Virginia City High School graduate and former Elko County sheriff from 1980 to 1990, said he is developing new department policies and procedures, upgrading emergency contingency plans with other county agencies, redefining department training and establishing strong interagency relationships on county, state and federal levels.

In 2006, he plans to continue to improve community services, implement a citizen's academy, community watch, horse tack identification programs, and redesign and add school and community programs including DARE, bicycle safety and drug recognition. The department will also continue to take an aggressive stance against drugs by increasing community involvement.

"Because of the challenges facing this community, it is critical to have an experienced and qualified sheriff. I have the background, education and professionalism needed," he said. "I love Storey County and I love this job. It's exciting to be home and to have an opportunity to give something back to the community that's given me so much."

The primary election is in August. Candidates formally file their intentions to run in March.