Pierce County Considers Making Sheriff An Appointed Position

A rare Saturday meeting of the Pierce County Charter Review Commission is drawing attention as members consider a series of proposals that could significantly change county government, including whether the Pierce County sheriff should remain an elected position. Critics argue the proposals would shift power away from voters and toward county government officials, while supporters say the changes deserve public consideration. Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank is encouraging residents to participate in the process, arguing that voters should continue to have the ability to directly elect their sheriff regardless of who currently holds the office. The debate comes amid broader statewide discussions over the role, accountability, and independence of elected sheriffs. The commission is also considering a proposal to create an ombudsman position with oversight responsibilities related to the sheriff's office. Questions have been raised about transparency, public records access, and whether the proposed changes would increase political influence over law enforcement leadership. Pierce County voters could ultimately decide the fate of any charter amendments that move forward to the November ballot. #PierceCounty #KeithSwank #Sheriff #PublicSafety #WashingtonPolitics #LocalGovernment #Election2026 #GovernmentAccountability #PierceCountySheriff #CharterReviewCommission #WashingtonState #VoterRights #LawEnforcement #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare