Kirkland’s pick, Balaam, appointed Washoe County sheriff

Tuesday, June 13, 2000 | 5:31 a.m.

Balaam, who has served in the Washoe County Sheriff's Office for more than 28 years, was selected from a field of four finalists.

"I firmly believe in the concept of community policing and making police more accessible to the community," Balaam said.

Kirkland stirred up controversy earlier this year when he postponed the effective date of his resignation until after an April 15 deadline, thus requiring the appointment of a replacement rather than a public election in November of this year.

Gov. Kenny Guinn appointed Kirkland as the new director of the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety.

Balaam will serve as sheriff until the next election in November 2002. The commission set his annual salary at $78,000.

"Dennis is a go-getter," Commission Chairman Ted Short said. "He is the guy who is going to get things done. He clearly has the respect and admiration of his peers and the support of the men and women of the sheriff's office."

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