Accusations and innuendos that Bill Kelberlau is not qualified to run for the Office of Sheriff, nor is he qualified to serve as Sheriff if elected, are being circulated around Williamson County by supporters of opposition candidates. In fact, candidate Chody has publicly challenged Kelberlau as to his qualifications. It is alleged that Kelberlau is not qualified to be Sheriff because he does not hold a peace officers license. He does not currently hold said license, but, it is not required to run for office or to hold office up to two years after being elected.
In reviewing Texas state law, we find the following:
"85.0011. QUALIFICATIONS. A person is not eligible to serve as sheriff unless the person:(1) has a high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate; and(2) is eligible to be licensed under Sections 1701.309 and 1701.312, Occupations Code.Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 985, Sec. 3. Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1420, Sec. 14.819, eff. Sept. 1, 2001."
Thus we see that there are just two qualifications;
1. Must have a high school diploma
2. Must be eligible for a "peace officers" license
Subsequent to being elected, the Sheriff has two years from taking office to obtain the license as described in Texas Occupation Code:
"Sec. 1701.302. CERTAIN ELECTED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS; LICENSE REQUIRED. (a) An officer, including a sheriff, elected under the Texas Constitution or a statute or appointed to fill a vacancy in an elective office must obtain a license from the commission not later than the second anniversary of the date the officer takes office."
Thus it appears a disinformation campaign is being waged to discredit a qualified individual for the Office of Sheriff.
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