By Samantha Smith
The gloves came off in Monday’s Hays County Sheriffs race debate as incumbent Gary Cutler and candidate Rodrigo Amaya differed on community policing and the November jail bond.
The debate, which was put on by the League of Women Voters at the San Marcos Activity Center, had both men answer the same four questions from moderator Kaleen Gray. Each had 30 seconds to respond.
On the most pressing issue facing Hays County, Cutler said the crowded conditions in the Hays County jail are of most importance.
Amaya, however, said the unavailability of the current Sheriff and his deputies to handle issues in the county is the issue. He added the problem is what inspired him to run against Cutler.
Both candidates agreed on the importance of mental health training for officers. But the two men differed on their support of a bond on the November ballot for jail improvements.
Cutler supported the measure, as it could curb the need to outsource Hays County inmates to jails in other counties.
Amaya didn’t support the bond, he believed the county wouldn’t need the bond if inmate capacity were reduced.
“He doesn’t know anything about running a jail,” Cutler said.
Both also disagreed on community policing. Cutler said that his deputies already have a strong presence in the community.
Amaya disagreed with Cutler and continued to support his decision to run for the position based on his perception of the lack of community involvement.
Election Day for Hays County Sheriff is Nov. 8.
