Deputy Sheriff Tim Walburg is moving up. The Lake County deputy has been appointed to fill the remaining two years of the sheriff's term, which becomes vacant on Dec. 23.
Sheriff Roger Hartman announced his retirement two weeks ago. Walburg's appointment takes effect Dec. 24. His annual salary was set at $46,800. Hartman's four-year term comes up for re-election in 2014.
In making the appointment, Lake County Commissioners said on Tuesday (today) that they heard nothing but support from community members regarding Walburg's appointment as sheriff.
Walburg joined the Lake County Sheriff's Department in February 2005.
"I'm happy they're giving me the opportunity to serve the people of Lake County," he said.
Walburg admitted he had plans two years ago to run for sheriff, but he had personal, family issues that changed those plans. He also said he appreciates the support he has received.
"I have a lot of support from the community," he said. "We all have to work together to get the job done."
Walburg said the Sheriff's Office has seen tremendous changes in the past eight years that he's been with the office in terms of new and updated technology, some of which has been available through grants.
Walburg's first duty will be to fill two deputy positions (his position and a second deputy slot that was vacated last week), as well as a jailer's position. County commissioners accepted the resignation of jailer Eric Natwick on Tuesday.
In other personnel action, commissioners approved raises in hourly pay for two 911 dispatchers to align with the county's new salary schedule. They declared the planning, zoning and drainage position to be full-time (the position has historically been 25 percent equalization) with the hourly rate adjusted accordingly to $19.14.
Commissioners also approved a raise to $16 per hour for the county's environmental specialist as he has passed his probationary period.
Send us your community news, events, letters to the editor and other suggestions. Now, you can submit birth, wedding and engagement announcements online too!
