Recently-appointed Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess described his first few months in the role. Additionally, Rotary inducted two new members.
The Rotary Club of Chickasha met June 1, 2023. Rotarian Mitch Williams led the club in singing "Air Show".
Two new members were inducted at the meeting. Kyle Mosley was sponsored by Rotarian Jay Epperson. Matt Brooks was sponsored by President-elect Jim Cowan.
From right, President Lewis Knisley inducts Matt Brooks, with sponsor Jim Cowan, and Kyle Mosley, with sponsor Jay Epperson.
Rotarian of the Day Mark Tibbets introduced the speaker, Sheriff Garry Boggess. Boggess was appointed by the county commissioners to fill the remainder of Jim Weir's term upon his retirement. He took office Feb. 1.
Boggess stated that when he first joined the Grady County Sheriff's Office as undersheriff, he was faced with several organizational issues. Some of the issues have been resolved, many are outside of the office's control. Boggess's goal is to lead the best sheriff's department in the state.
When Boggess took office, Grady County ranked 42nd in the state in deputy pay. Employee pay has been a difficulty for law enforcement at all levels. The county now ranks 5th in the state.
The department has grown to an extent that it is able to better aid residents both outside and inside municipalities. They have been able provide manpower, specialists, and/or equipment to cover gaps in city police resources. There are now 2 to 3 deputies on patrol at any given time. The office has now created divisions that are trained in and dedicated to certain tasks.
Lunch was provided by Chicken Express.