Sheriff running for county commissioner

Van Wert independent/contributor content

Stan D. Owens made a formal announcement Wednesday that he is a candidate for the Republican nomination for Van Wert County commissioner. Owens is seeking the term that begins January 3, 2013.  His term as Van Wert County sheriff expires in January 2013, concluding what will be 24 years of service in that position.

Owens is a native of Van Wert County and a 1972 graduate of Crestview High School. He is the son of Ervin E. and Iva Lou (Laukhuf) Owens.

Conservative values, experience in budget management and overall administrative experience are just a few of the credentials earned while serving as sheriff. Owens, along with his staff, has managed one of the largest county General Fund departmental budgets, due to the sheriff’s office being a 24/7 continuous operation all through a difficult period during the economic downturn, when budget cuts incurred.

Owens’ experience in financial management has also been demonstrated throughout his 35-year career with Owens Family Farming operation.

“Planning and money management are critical in keeping the farming operation running,” he stated.

In his 24 years of service as sheriff, Owens has had the privilege of working with many excellent elected officials and their respective staffs within county government. Owens said he feels this experience would also be an asset, in having a basic knowledge and understanding of these offices and responsibilities.

Owens’ principle throughout this campaign is to bring a common sense approach to issues while working together to produce positive solutions. He firmly believes in standing by his beliefs and principles, along with an attitude of fairness. Being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars is paramount, along with economic job growth for the county.

Owens also brings experience in countywide projects due to his experience with planning and implementation of the Van Wert County Correctional Facility, for which the county received $1,625,000 in state grant money to aid in the construction process. He also sat on the original 9-1-1 technical advisory board, which planned the 9-1-1 system that serves Van Wert County today.

The sheriff’s office’s DARE program was implemented in county schools through a collaboration between his office and school officials.

Some of the organizations Owens is part of include Farm Bureau, Township Trustee Association, National Rifle Association, Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association and the American Jail Association.

Sheriff Owens resides in Harrison Township with his wife, Susan, and son, Nathan. The couple has four adult children: Ashley Owens, Laura Beth Owens, Krista (Tom) Baer, all of Van Wert, and Shaun Butler of Cuyahoga Falls. They also have three grandchildren.

The family attends Countryside Chapel United Methodist Church in Tully Township.