By SERAINE PAGE | For the Independent

Gary Simpson is hoping to be the new sheriff in town.

Simpson, a 29-year Sheriff’s Office veteran, announced his plan Feb. 25 to run for the Kitsap County sheriff position.

Current Kitsap Sheriff Steve Boyer announced earlier this month that he would not seek re-election due to health issues.

“With a strong sense of commitment shared by all personnel, I am announcing my candidacy for the office of sheriff,” states a press release from Simpson. “I am honored to be a part of this profession and this agency.”

His training has included completion of the FBI National Academy, Leadership Kitsap and assignments in various divisions of the sheriff’s office. Simpson’s volunteer efforts include involvement in the Rotary Club, Silverdale Chamber of Commerce, Outside Homeless Committee, RSVP, Special Olympics Washington, YWCA board of directors and Kitsap Habitat for Humanity.

In the press release, Simpson noted that his main goals will include community partnerships, clear communications with citizens and employees, use of technology and resources, strengthening infrastructure and working with vulnerable populations.

“The sheriff’s office has a tradition of community engagement, fighting crime with innovative and creative measures, and bringing others to be held accountable for their actions. A community’s safety and law enforcement’s effectiveness are not measured in the number of arrests made, but by the lack of crime,” states the release. “While fighting crime, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office has a developed a solid foundation of duty and character as we continue to build strong, healthy communities for everyone.”