After months of proposing change, Pat Kelly is one election away from the chance to reform the Athens County Sheriff's Office.
Kelly defeated incumbent Sheriff Vernon Castle 6,617-5,780 in the Democratic primary yesterday, according to unofficial election results from the Athens County Board of Elections.
He will run against Stephen Kane, who ran unopposed for the Republican nomination, in the November election.
We're excited ' there's a lot to do
he said. This is just the first step.
The successful night was a result of his supporters' focus on the campaign and consistently positive advertising, Kelly said.
I feel very good. I watched him work very hard to fulfill a dream that he has had as a little boy said his wife Debbie Kelly.
Castle, who will hand off the position in January 2009, said he intends to spend more time farming and with his family.
Castle said he absolutely would not support Kelly in the general election, but declined to endorse a candidate in what is now a two-man race. The position pays an annual salary of $69,372.
It's all over. I'm not bitter I'm just glad it's over
he said.
Kelly's priorities for the office would be restricting the drug trade and containing crime, he said.
We have a plan
a focus and a commitment for the people of Athens County
he said.
Former Castle campaigner and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees member Gary Arnold of Glouster switched his support to Kelly about a year and a half ago partly because he saw a lack of attention paid to drug busts in his area.
We need to get some new blood in there
he said.
Castle's advice for the next sheriff is to keep focus on the citizens of Athens County and to not let either candidate's ego obstruct that goal, he said.
I think (Kelly) is a very good guy
said Phyllis Koons of Glouster. Castle's had his time and didn't prove anything.
Kelly said it's too early to think about November, but is eager for the race.
Well
I feel very comfortable as a Democrat in Athens
and I feel very comfortable because of my record as well
Kelly said.
