PRIORITIES AS SHERIFF

Don’s Priorities

Proven Leadership. Clear Values.
A Safer Polk County.

As Sheriff, Don Burrows will build on what works while preparing Polk County for the challenges ahead. With decades of service in law enforcement and deep roots in the community, Don believes public safety is strongest when it is professional, accountable, and grounded in respect for the people it serves.

These priorities reflect steady leadership and a commitment to protecting both public safety and constitutional rights.

  • Public safety today requires more than enforcement alone.

    Don has worked directly with regional mental‑health partners and multi‑county task forces and understands that addiction and mental‑health challenges impact families, workplaces, and entire communities. He supports responses that prioritize safety, accountability, and treatment—ensuring deputies have the tools, training, and partnerships needed to respond appropriately and effectively.

    Don believes mental‑health challenges should be addressed as both a public‑safety and public‑health responsibility, with enforcement focused where it belongs and treatment available where it can make a lasting difference.

  • Keeping Polk County safe is a shared responsibility.

    Don will strengthen partnerships with local organizations, lake associations, ATV/UTV clubs, businesses, and civic groups to promote responsible recreation, compliance with the law, and community safety. Through regular engagement, public education, and collaborative problem‑solving, Don will ensure the Sheriff’s Office remains responsive and connected to the people it serves.

  • Protecting children is not optional—it is fundamental.

    Don will continue working closely with school districts to enhance security planning, support School Resource Officers, and fully utilize safety‑mapping and preparedness programs. His approach emphasizes prevention, readiness, and clear communication so that schools remain safe places to learn, not places of fear.

  • A professional Sheriff’s Office protects the public while operating facilities safely, lawfully, and humanely.

    Don supports jail programs that address mental‑health needs, reduce repeat offenses, and help individuals return to the community better prepared to succeed. By working with the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council and treatment partners, Don will improve outcomes while maintaining accountability and safety.

  • Public trust depends on responsible use of public funds.

    Don has a proven record of securing grants and implementing improvements without unnecessary cost increases. As Sheriff, he will continue to pursue innovative solutions, transparent budgeting, and efficient operations—ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and law enforcement resources are used where they matter most.

  • Clear communication saves lives.

    Don has already strengthened emergency communications through expanded staffing, additional tower sites, and grant‑funded improvements. He will continue investing in technology and training that help first responders coordinate faster, communicate clearly, and respond effectively across Polk County.

  • The Sheriff answers to the people—always.

    Don leads with integrity, transparency, and accountability. He is committed to protecting constitutional rights, respecting personal freedoms, and enforcing the law fairly and consistently. Through clear communication and direct engagement, Don will ensure the public remains informed, heard, and confident in the Sheriff’s Office.

    Strong leadership means serving every citizen with professionalism, fairness, and respect—every day.

Contact Don

Don Burrows believes good leadership starts with listening. If there are issues you’re concerned about, questions you’d like answered, or ideas you think would help strengthen public safety in Polk County, Don wants to hear from you. Your perspective matters, and your input helps ensure the Sheriff’s Office serves the community responsibly and effectively.


don@burrowsforsheriff.com

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