Mark Anderson Announces Bid for Reelection as Windham County Sheriff

Throughout his time in office, Anderson claims to have established a legacy marked by innovative practices and regional partnerships.

The incumbent Sheriff Mark R. Anderson has revealed his intention to run for reelection in Windham County. Anderson has dedicated 22 years to serving the county, having commenced his career as a deputy in 2004 and becoming Sheriff in July 2019.

In his announcement, Anderson expressed a straightforward rationale behind his reelection campaign, emphasizing the need for Vermont residents to feel secure in their homes, workplaces, and educational institutions along with the importance of affordable living and access to community resources and services. He assured voters that those familiar with his work would recognize his readiness to assist.

Throughout his time in office, Anderson claims to have established a legacy marked by innovative practices and regional partnerships. He initiated the Windham County Sheriff’s Advisory to encourage community engagement and created a Regional Animal Control Officer program aimed at supporting local governments and addressing cases of animal abuse and neglect. Additionally, he facilitated cooperative policing agreements between municipalities, including Putney, Westminster, Jamaica, and Londonderry, and introduced the state’s first all-electric police vehicle. Grant funding he secured has also benefitted housing improvements throughout the county. Recently, Anderson has concentrated on challenges encountered by rural communities in Vermont, particularly in light of staffing shortages and related public safety issues.

His latest legislative accomplishment highlights his dedication to enhancing access to law enforcement across the area. Anderson launched the Windham County Regional Policing Pilot program, aimed at making police services more accessible to towns lacking their own departments while remaining within financial reach. The General Assembly recently approved his proposal, which was subsequently signed into law by the Governor. 

In addition to his role as Sheriff, Anderson actively volunteers and sits on various non-profit boards, contributing to organizations such as West River Valley Thrives, INSPIRE School for Autism, and the Vermont Sheriff's Association, among others.