 Earlier this week, Beltrami County Sheriff Phil Hodap announced his retirement later this year, at the conclusion of his third term as sheriff. Hodap has been instrumental in reducing crime and improving safety on area roads over the past 11 years. During his tenure as sheriff, Hodap has worked to pilot alternatives to incarceration of mentally ill individuals. He hopes to continue that work even after his retirement. I've got people in the sheriff's office here that are going to step into my shoes to help finish the work that's being done there, but I want to keep working on that project possibly even after I'm gone. To help continue his vision, Sheriff Hodap endorsed Beltrami County Chief Deputy Ernie Beidle who announced his candidacy for sheriff earlier today. Beidle says he was honored by the endorsement and if elected hopes to continue the work, Sheriff Hodap started by focusing on key areas. Being more efficient within the sheriff's office, continuing fine efficiencies, the mental health crisis and we really need to continue to throw more of our efforts at that. We need to get the drugs off the street. Beidle is the only person so far who has entered the race to succeed Hodap as sheriff. The election is set for next November. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.