Fisher County Commissioners reviewed and ultimately accepted the official resignation of Fisher County Sheriff Allen Arnwine on Monday, and after the better part of an hour behind closed doors, the court agreed to call a special meeting next week to continue discussions about appointing an interim sheriff until a special election can be held.
Fisher County Judge Ken Holt read Arnwine’s resignation letter, submitted last month to notify the county of his intention to resign on Monday or upon a suitable replacement to serve as Sheriff.
Although the court shared lighthearted banter about not accepting the Sheriff's resignation, commissioners voted unanimously in their disheartened consent. “I hate to see you go,” said Commissioner Gordon Pippin, “but I understand.”
Holt publicly addressed Arnwine, saying he would like to echo what many citizens have expressed, which was a sincere appreciation for all he has done for the citizens of Fisher County, “and I appreciate your friendship,” said Holt.
Additionally, Holt said that while he was sure the commissioners were aware, he wanted the public to also know that during Arnwine’s time as Sheriff, the Sheriff's Department has operated more efficiently and cost-effective than it has ever operated before.
“I think you for that, and for a lot of things,” said Holt. This was met with applause from all of those in attendance, which ultimately built into a standing ovation. Arnwine expressed gratitude to Holt and to the people.
“Everything didn't go the way I wanted it to, but we did the best we could. That's all I can say,” said Arnwine.
With nothing else to discuss in regards to Arnwine’s resignation, the court carried the discussion behind closed doors to discuss his potential replacement. With few possible candidates to choose from, and a little time to make a selection, the court had a fair amount to consider.
Fisher County Chief Deputy Lance Clark — who has served the department as deputy, then chief deputy, under the last three County Sheriff's — would be an obvious potential candidate for the court. However, prior to Monday's meeting, Clark accepted an investigator position with another agency and recently submitted his two-week notice.
Among those being considered for the job are current Fisher County Deputy Matt McKay and 28-year veteran, Randy Ford, who is currently serving as an investigator for the Jones County Attorney Office.
While officials have received both positive and negative reports as well as support and opposition regarding each candidate’s potential selection to the office, commissioners agreed it would be prudent to table a vote until next week. Upon reconvening after executive session, the commissioners called for a special meeting to revisit the issue on Monday.
Commissioners are expecting to gather additional information regarding each candidate in preparation for deeper discussions on the appointment next week. Additionally, officials are hopeful that other possible candidates will show interest and submit an application before Monday’s meeting scheduled for May 17.
Whomever commissioners select to fill the vacancy will only serve in the appointment until an election can be held. A special election will be called to serve a two-year term as sheriff in 2022, which coincides with elections for the regular election cycle for precinct 2 and 4 commissioners.