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Richmond deputy helping improve town, build bridges in valley By
Nicole Grubbs RICHMOND -- Sheriff's Deputy Brandon Douglas is one person who has volunteered to help communities through Cache County Sheriff G. Lynn Nelson's STAR Deputy Program. The Sheriff's Town Area Representative (STAR) program was set up to find out "how to strengthen communities," said Douglas, who serves as Richmond's deputy. He said being part of the STAR program has helped bridge the gap between the mayor and City Council and the Cache County Sheriff's Office. Marlowe Atkinson, city manager, said Douglas acts as a liaison between the city and the Sheriff's Office. "The working relationship between Richmond City and the Cache County Sheriff's Office has improved significantly over the last year and much of that is due to Brandon," said Mayor Kip Panter. "It's my responsibility to see where [the city] is at and what needs to be taken care of," Douglas said. "If I don't come up and problems are occurring . . .the problem will still be there." Douglas said the responsibility to look over the town is an overwhelming one and he jokes that he was chosen because Nelson pulled his name out of a hat. Douglas lives in Logan and said it is sometimes hard to find time to fulfill his duties, but his job is rewarding. Deputy Sheriff Wayne Lewis says Douglas is "probably the best example" of someone who works really hard in the STAR program. "He just took it and ran with it." Panter said, "Brandon is the epitome of what the Star Officer program is about." Douglas says most of the problems in the town aren't serious, but they are important to the council. Last month, in addition to his regular duties, he was asked to ticket a vehicle that always parks illegally. He is also responsible for monitoring school zones. The main one is located on U.S. 91 and he often tickets people who speed through that area when children are going to or coming from school. "He has dramatically improved the safety at the school crossing on Highway 91, through his efforts and through the increased coverage by the Sheriff's Office in general," Panter said. "Some of the issues [the council] talks about aren't too serious, but it makes them happy if we take care of it." This is a program the sheriff feels strongly about. Each deputy is asked to write a report about their service and they must each talk to a supervisor about the town. If they aren't trying to solve any problems it will effect their evaluations, Douglas said. Richmond has provided an office in the community building for deputies to file reports without returning to the office in Logan. This came about with Brandon's help and support, Panter said. Lewis said the program has been really effective in most communities. Douglas has received several awards for the work he is doing in Richmond. The city presented Douglas with a plaque for community service at a city party during the summer. Lewis said he received an award from the STAR department at the Sheriff's Banquet in August. He was also recognized with an award from Cache County in September.
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