10/25/2026
Our response to this piece does not constitute an official endorsement of the author, the publication, or the opinions expressed within it. Rather, we saw a valuable opportunity to address legitimate public questions thoughtfully and directly.
Team Byrd strongly believes that healthy democratic processes depend on open dialogue with all media platforms, respect for the free press, and honoring the principles of the U.S. and Washington State Constitutions.
When members of our community ask questions about how the Sheriff’s Office will be managed, we believe it is our responsibility to provide clear, honest, and documented answers.
Dear Dawnya,
Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective on Pacific County’s history, leadership, and upcoming election. We genuinely appreciate the thoughtful tone of your article and your willingness to ask direct, important questions. As you rightly pointed out, choosing a Sheriff isn't just about electing a person—it is about choosing a complete leadership vision for our county.
We welcome the opportunity to answer your questions directly and share Team Byrd’s vision for professional, transparent, and accountable public safety.
1. Training & Certification (CJTC Guidelines)
You raised fair questions regarding state law enforcement training standards and certification under the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC).
Under state administrative procedures (RCW 43.101 and WAC 139-05-210), the WSCJTC does not issue binding certification determinations or process academy waivers for private citizens or candidates during an active campaign. Formal evaluation requests are submitted by the employing law enforcement agency immediately upon taking office.
Upon taking office, Team Byrd will follow the exact statutory procedures through official agency channels. It is also worth noting that attending required training while serving as Sheriff is neither unusual nor unprecedented in Pacific County.
The current administration followed this exact process. Just as occurred then, Team Byrd will have experienced command personnel managing daily agency operations seamlessly while Rich remains fully engaged, informed, and accountable.
2. Leadership & Undersheriff Commitments
You asked about proposed Undersheriff Heath Layman, his background, and his private business commitments.
If I’m elected, Heath Layman will serve as a full-time, fully present Undersheriff dedicated entirely to the management and daily operations of the Pacific County Sheriff's Office. Administrative availability and operational continuity will be top priorities. Heath is current in all CJTC requirements including executive certifications.
Heath and his family have owned and operated small businesses for over 25 years. Managing secondary business interests during off-duty hours brings valuable executive, administrative, and budget management experience to county government.
While his current work involves national instruction and travel, those activities will scale back significantly to match standard accrued time-off policies, ensuring zero impact on his full-time duties.
Far from a drawback, Heath’s national reputation as a certified law enforcement instructor—supported by qualified staff managing daily operations at Willapa Fi****ms Training—is a major asset. His expertise will directly enhance internal agency training, mentoring existing and new department instructors right here in Pacific County.
3. A Vision for Modern Training Infrastructure
Rather than focusing on informal range arrangements or private property, Team Byrd’s long-term vision is centered on professional, modern infrastructure.
We intend to look beyond the status quo by exploring regional partnerships and applying for state and federal grants to work toward a comprehensive Regional Training Center. A dedicated, professional facility would support critical law enforcement needs—including Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) driving, defensive tactics, de-escalation, and fi****ms training.
Importantly, a modern multi-use facility would also serve Pacific County citizens, local youth programs, and shooting sports enthusiasts, promoting safe, responsible gun ownership and public safety education. We will also continue to invest in and mentor internal agency instructors, ensuring our deputies receive top-tier professional development.
4. Governance & Jail Operations
You asked about the relationship between the Sheriff's Office and Pacific County Jail Services, directed by James Byrd.
The decision to establish Jail Services as a separate county department in January 2025 was made by the Board of Pacific County Commissioners. Team Byrd is not seeking to return corrections to the Sheriff’s Office.
Good leadership requires delegating authority and establishing clear ethical boundaries. To ensure complete transparency and eliminate any perception of a conflict of interest, Rich Byrd will delegate all direct liaison and operational oversight responsibilities concerning Jail Services to designated command leadership as long as James Byrd serves as Director.
Decisions regarding county agency structures belong to the Board of Commissioners. If the Board ever re-evaluates that structure in the future, a new director would be required under the Sheriff's direct authority.
As Sheriff, Rich’s focus will remain 100% on leading a professional, responsive Sheriff's Office.
Looking Forward
We share your desire for local campaigns to focus on policy, leadership capability, and factual administrative plans. Asking tough questions makes candidate proposals stronger and helps voters make informed choices.
Thank you again for engaging in a constructive dialogue. We look forward to continuing this conversation across Pacific County in the coming weeks.
