Saturday, August 24th, 2019
Auglaize sheriff sets retirement
By Sydney Albert
WAPAKONETA - Auglaize County Sheriff Al Solomon has announced he will not run for re-election after finishing his current term, which ends Dec. 31, 2020, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.
At a morning news conference at the sheriff's office on Friday, Solomon said that after almost 16 years serving as sheriff, he will not seek a fifth term. He recounted some department accomplishments since his initial hiring in 1979, including various equipment and technology improvements and the expansion or launch of programs, including K-9 units, active-shooter training, the chaplain's program and the citizens' academy.
"I love this job. I love these people here, and I still love serving the public. And I still believe, in the position that we are in, we can still make a positive difference in someone's life," Solomon said.
He made the decision after considering health concerns and his desire to spend more time with family. As sheriff, he said he owes the public his time and hasn't always been able to spend as much time with family members as he would like. Age was also a factor in his decision, he said - he would be 67 at the end of his next term if he sought and won re-election.
Solomon has one year left in his current term as sheriff and said he will continue to fill the role rather than retire early and appoint a replacement. He declined to comment on the 2020 election, stating only that he would support whomever won the election.
"I was only successful because of the people that work here. I want to thank all the employees who work here for your hard work every day. I will expect that to continue as I turn over the reins of this great office to my successor."
He also thanked the citizens of Auglaize County, his wife and various members of local law enforcement offices who had gathered to attend the news conference for their support over the years.
Asked what he will miss the most, Solomon remarked it would be a combination of the people with whom he worked and the public.
