Pettis County Sheriff Candidates Answer Questions at LWV Forum

About 50 people attended a candidate forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters Tuesday night at the Sedalia Municipal Building.

The only locally-contested race was featured at the top of the forum, with Pettis County Sheriff Kevin Bond and challenger Brad Anders answering questions submitted by audience members.

Moderator Mary Merritt allowed a five-minute opening statement from each candidate, then read aloud several questions directed at either Bond or Anders. Each candidate was allowed two minutes to answer.

Bond, who who has 34 years of law enforcement experience, 16 of those as sheriff, touted his proven leadership, service and conservative values. He noted that he was born and raised in Pettis County. “It's a great place to love and raise a family,” said Bond, whose wife, son and brother were in attendance Tuesday night. Bond instituted contract policing in such small-town communities as Green Ridge and La Monte, as well as school resource officers at area schools.

Anders said he has grave concerns with the current sheriff. Anders emphasized transparency, accountability, integrity and hometown values. He currently serves as sergeant in the Lee's Summit area, where he in charge of a “Safe Passage” program. Anders also operated Del Amici's Italian restaurant for 5-6 years in Warrensburg, and 4-5 years in Sedalia (at Hotel Bothwell). Anders said he wants to make a positive social change in the community.

Following the Q & A with the sheriff candidates, a discussion about Amendment #3 that is on the ballot Nov. 3 was held between State Rep. Brad Pollitt R-Sedalia, speaking in favor, and Sean Nicholson speaking against it.

Rep. Pollitt said he wants to give the voters another chance to change what was voted on in 2018, when Clean Missouri was on the ballot.

Nicholson stated that if passed, Amendment 3 will enable partisan lobbyists to draw political lines in Missouri.

The League of Women Votersm which is a non-partisan organization, is actually taking a position on the Amendment proposal, urging voters to just say no.