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Dear Editor,

Recently, I retired as executive director of the Kentucky County Attorneys Association, a position that I was privileged to hold for more than a decade. Prior to assuming that position, I had twice been elected Powell County judge-executive and also served as the executive director of the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy.

During my time in all these posts, I worked with many dedicated men and women serving their communities. I have also witnessed a few who were not well suited for the public trust that they possessed.

Working with county attorneys this past decade, I have firsthand, up-close, professional experience with their unique and enormous responsibilities. In addition to their prosecutorial duties, they serve as legal advisers to the county government and other local officials.

I felt compelled to write this letter to voice my thoughts on Brian Goettl. The residents of Jessamine County are fortunate to have a man of his stature serving as county attorney. I know firsthand from working with Brian that he has demonstrated his concern for public safety and has served as an example of what it means to be a firm, fair and even-handed prosecutor.

I am not alone in having this view about Brian and his accomplishments and commitment as county attorney. Over the years, he has been active with the Kentucky County Attorneys Association, and when asked by the executive board, has demonstrated an amazing willingness to provide time, wisdom, and leadership on criminal justice, legislative and policy issues. This has earned Brian the well-deserved respect of his colleagues across Kentucky.

On matters concerning public safety or providing programs that serve working families, we could always count on him to give his full support.

When you know Brian’s remarkable record of accomplishments, it is no surprise that state officials have sought out his counsel many times.

Just last year, Attorney General Daniel Cameron appointed Brian to his transition team. The new attorney general, as Kentucky’s chief law enforcement officer, knew he could rely on him.

When it comes to serving his community and state, Brian is one of the most unselfish and dedicated public officials I know. As I leave public service,

I want to say it has been an honor to have had this opportunity of working with Brian Goettl. I know he will continue to serve admirably and provide strong leadership for the people of Jessamine County and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Bill Patrick
Lexington, Ky.