BEN ZAWACKI for Sherburne County Sheriff
"SERVICE OVER SELF"
BEN ZAWACKI for Sherburne County Sheriff
"SERVICE OVER SELF"
Core commitments
Service to Community
Public Safety • Crime Prevention • Victim Advocacy
The Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office exists to serve and protect our community. Every resident deserves to feel safe at home, on our roads, and in our neighborhoods.
Ben Zawacki believes public safety starts with a professional, well-trained Sheriff’s Office that puts service first. Deputies must be prepared to respond with competence, integrity, and respect. By investing in modern training and technology, the Sheriff’s Office can prevent crime and respond effectively when it occurs.
Through proactive policing, data-driven strategies, and community engagement, the focus will be on reducing crime and improving quality of life. Victims will receive compassion, clear communication, and access to resources—because justice should always put people first.
Fiscal Responsibility
Efficient Spending • Long-Term Planning • Transparency & Accountability
Fiscal responsibility is essential to maintaining public trust. Ben Zawacki is committed to maximizing public safety while ensuring every taxpayer dollar is used responsibly, efficiently, and transparently.
As Sheriff, Ben Zawacki will maintain direct involvement in budgeting and operational planning to clearly identify needs, prioritize spending, and develop long-term solutions. The goal is not simply to cut costs, but to eliminate unnecessary spending while maintaining—and improving—the services residents rely on.
Through careful planning, accountability, and open communication with the public, the Sheriff’s Office will demonstrate responsible stewardship of county resources while remaining fully prepared to meet current and future challenges.
Jail Operations
Correctional Officer Safety • Inmate Safety • Operational Efficiency
Sherburne County Jail is one of the largest detention facilities in the state, and its safe, effective operation is critical to the community. The safety of correctional officers, inmates, visitors, and the public is non-negotiable.
A secure jail depends on well-trained correctional staff, modern technology, and clear policies that promote order and accountability. Ben Zawacki will prioritize continuous evaluation of staffing levels, operational procedures, supply management, and inmate programming to ensure safety and efficiency.
By using data-driven reviews and long-term planning, the Sheriff’s Office will improve jail operations while reducing risk, controlling costs, and maintaining humane, lawful detention standards.
Staff Safety & Workforce Development
Equipment & Technology • Training • Recruitment & Retention
Law enforcement agencies across Minnesota face a critical staffing shortage, making the retention and development of experienced personnel more important than ever. Sherburne County cannot afford to lose its highly trained professionals.
Ben Zawacki is committed to providing deputies and correctional officers with the tools, technology, and training they need to safely perform one of the most demanding jobs in public service. His creation of a dedicated Training Deputy position strengthened internal training while remaining cost-effective and improving officer safety.
Looking ahead, recruitment must focus on quality, not speed. The Sheriff’s Office will seek motivated individuals who are driven by a genuine desire to serve the community. Every hire will reflect the values, professionalism, and integrity expected by the citizens of Sherburne County.
Strengthening Local Partnerships
Law Enforcement • Fire Services • Schools
Public safety is strongest when agencies work together. Throughout his career, Ben Zawacki has prioritized collaboration with local police departments, fire services, and schools to create safer communities.
Joint training, shared resources, and open communication between agencies ensure faster response times and better outcomes during emergencies. Ben Zawacki regularly works with Fire Chiefs and law enforcement leaders to build mutual understanding and coordinated strategies.
The Sheriff’s Office will also continue its longstanding commitment to school safety. School Resource Officers play a vital role in protecting students, staff, and visitors while fostering trust and positive relationships. The safety of children and educators will always remain a top priority.