By Bill Dial, Whitefish
I am writing this letter of support and encouraging you to get out and vote for the next Justice of the Peace, Department 2, in Ravalli County, Perry Johnson. Perry is the consummate professional and as many of you know is fair, non-biased and a man who can relate to people from all walks of life. He is a great communicator and makes those he deals with feel valued.
I was on the selection committee that hired Perry to be the Public Safety Officers Standards and Training (POST) Executive Director. Perry took over an agency that was in turmoil and not respected by those they license, law enforcement. From the day Perry was hired he has continually “raised the bar” and has made a once maligned agency into one of the finest state agencies in Montana. Perry believes in holding people accountable while realizing we are all human and that humans make mistakes. He has been an advocate for streamlining his part of state government while providing exemplary leadership. Perry is highly respected by his staff, board and the law enforcement community as a whole.
“I can’t,” “I won’t” or “that is not possible” is not in Perry’s vocabulary. He is a “can do” guy who sets goals and ensures they are met. I have been in law enforcement for over 38 years and have seen many judges come and go. Perry has a personality trait that will make him an excellent judge, a trait you can’t teach or legislate: common sense. A trait that is lacking in some of the judicial systems today. Through Perry’s many years as a Ravalli County Deputy Sheriff, Under Sheriff and Sheriff he has demonstrated the attitude to do the right thing for the right reason. He has dedicated himself to public service and will continue that service as your next Justice of the Peace. Please get out and vote for Perry Johnson!