Gary Scherer's Qualifications for Jackson County Sheriff

Jackson County's most qualified candidate.

F.B.I. National Academy Graduate
Master’s Degree in Management
Bachelor’s Degree in Administration of Justice
26 Years with the Kansas City Missouri Police Department, retiring as a Police
Major
3 1/2 Years as the Grain Valley Missouri Police Chief
Skilled law enforcement executive with 18+ years of supervisory/command experience
Experienced in working with other law enforcement agencies, elected officials, civic groups, business leaders and community groups
Overall Commander of 4 Presidential visits
Proven background in leadership, administration and problem-solving
Extensive background in emergency management that included Overall Commander of the Emergency Services Response to 1993 Kansas City Flood

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Extensive law enforcement management experience, with expertise in leadership, administration, human resource development, strategic planning, systems development, emergency management and management reporting. 30+ years total law enforcement experience, with 15 years of command experience, 10 of which were at an executive level. Current Class A certification from the State of Missouri Department of Public Safety allowing for employment as a peace/reserve officer anywhere in the State of Missouri. 7+ years of experience as a residential contractor.

Leadership Skills: Preparing and developing programs of action to accomplish objectives; demonstrating a positive attitude, strong work ethic, loyalty, and dedication; considering the impact of decisions on the department, its members and community; obtaining cooperation; utilizing logic and sound judgment in decision-making; diplomatic, setting an example of integrity
Administrative Skills: Ensuring accountability of subordinates related to conduct and productivity; quick to recognize problems and execute solutions; systematically securing relevant information and identifying key issues; paying attention to detail; structuring tasks, plans and objectives to establish priorities and set goals
Human Resource Skills: Interacting effectively with individuals at all levels; fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect; leading by example; making recommendations based on research and familiarity with various elements; soliciting ideas/opinions of others and utilizing input on key issues; encouraging training
Communication Skills: Expressing ideas (written and orally) in an articulate, clear, concise and effective manner; addressing large groups; persuasive

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

SCHERER CUSTOM HOMES, INC April 1999 to Present
Blue Springs, Missouri

PRESIDENT
Perform all facets of Residential Contractors Business: meet with clients, cost estimating, prepare specifications (description of materials) documents and construction contracts, complete building permit applications and meet with city officials concerning such, and oversee all phases of construction etc..

Formed Sub S Corporation in 1999 that is a registered Missouri Corporation.
Member of Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City.
Conduct business with over 60 sub contractors.
Constructed homes with sales of 7.8 million dollars to date, with the majority being approved for occupancy on the first final inspection by city inspectors.
Constructed homes in sub divisions and on acreage lots in: Blue Springs, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Lake Winnebago and unincorporated areas of Jackson and Cass Counties.
Licensed in August 2006 as a Broker Salesperson by the Missouri Real Estate Commission after completing required classroom and passing State exam.
Recently passed International Code Council (ICC) exam for certification as a Residential Contractor. Licensed to build in Missouri (Independence, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, Lake Winnebago and Lake Lotawana) and Kansas (Johnson County).

GRAIN VALLEY, MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENT April 1998 to October 2001
Grain Valley, Missouri

CHIEF OF POLICE

Managed and directed overall operation of Police Department consisting of 19 personnel (12 Sworn, 4 Reserves, and 3 Non-Sworn) with a budget of $678,000 to assure the best possible police service is provided to the 6,000 plus residents of a fast growing community.

Prepared Federal and State Grant proposals resulting in additional funding for personnel and equipment totaling $333,971 that included a School Resource Officer.
Directed the identification and procurement of computer software providing for paperless reporting and comprehensive record keeping system.
Established an additional supervisory and full-time detective position without the hiring of more personnel.
Coordinated development of comprehensive SOP manual that had not previously existed.
Through collaborative efforts with the Grain Valley School District received $103,000 in Federal Grant funds to establish a full-time School Resource Officer.
Raised the Department's level of professionalism by directing officers in a more community approach to policing and evidenced by many favorable comments from throughout the community.
Cost savings measures resulting in savings for fiscal years 1998 and 1999 of $18,450 and $47,807 respectively.
Missouri House of Representatives Resolution for exemplary record of civic achievement.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENT December 1970 to May 1997
Kansas City, Missouri

MAJOR - COMMANDER, NORTH PATROL DIVISION (April 1996 - May 1997)
Directed the largest geographical precinct in the city (162 square miles), providing day-to-day community based policing service to 94,000 residents.

Achieved a 60% reduction in blackout time by implementing procedural changes regarding alarm call responses and modifying roll call times.
- Directed a successful community-policing program, which generated much public interest and support.

MAJOR - COMMANDER, SPECIAL OPERATIONS DIVISION (March 1993 - April 1996)
Directed activities of the division (175+ personnel and $8.1M budget) comprised of three units (Traffic, Tactical Operations (S.W.A.T.), and Helicopter) to include all aspects of traffic and security for special events, visiting dignitaries, as well as civil disorders and disasters.

Increased level of responsiveness, which contributed to a 36% reduction in fatalities and a 9% reduction in traffic accidents for the calendar year 1994.
Reduced overtime cost by $200,000 through close monitoring of overtime expenditures and utilization of flexed schedules when appropriate.
Negotiated training of 4 helicopter pilots, resulting in significant savings ($7,600 vs. $100,000)
Initiated request to Missouri Division of Highway Safety, resulting in reinstatement of full funding ($88,177 vs. $50,000) of Multi-offender Grant. Letter of Commendation from Chief of Police.
Revised and implemented an advanced and comprehensive Critical Incident Management Plan which included the Field Force Concept and the Critical Incident Management Committee. Received a Special Unit Citation.
Developed a comprehensive staffing configuration, combining the Traffic and Tactical Operations Division, resulting in expanded and more uniformed coverage, reducing division personnel by 20%, while maintaining previous levels of support.
Directed development and implementation of the Gun Suppression Program, which resulted in a 62.5% reduction of homicides in the target area and a 24% reduction in homicides citywide. Received Special Unit Citation.
Formulated guidelines to maximize staffing levels while providing a fair and equitable leave policy.
Facilitated the update of duty manuals to ensure they were comprehensive, understandable, and protect the department from unnecessary liability.
Established a Division Training Committee to identify training issues and to provide on-going training to include "Monthly Training Topics".
Coordinated presidential visits (4) with recognition from the Secret Service for receiving outstanding cooperation, along with other letters of appreciation.
Overall Commander of emergency services response for 1993 Flood.

MAJOR - COMMANDER, EAST PATROL DIVISION (August 1992 - March 1993)
Directed activities of the division (150+ personnel) in response to law enforcement needs covering approximately 35 square miles with 87,000 residents, addressing specific neighborhood issues.

Developed and implemented a project to address crime problems/patterns associated with prostitution, resulting in reduction of activities as outlined in Letter of Appreciation from The Ministerial Alliance of Kansas City.
Researched actual personnel vs. authorized personnel, establishing staffing guidelines to ensure optimal response to calls-for-service.
Designed plan to address growing problem of gangs and related community crime issues, resulting in Letter of Commendation from the Chief of Police.

MAJOR - EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PATROL BUREAU (December 1990 - August 1992)
Provided administrative support relevant to operations and procedures of a bureau consisting of 750 uniformed personnel. Duties included human resource management, developing standards, and evaluation procedures. Participated in the preparation of documentation for disciplinary matters, expenditures, staff responsibilities. Served as Acting Bureau Commander when required.

Chaired Probationary Officer Review Panel.
Chaired, Firearms Review Committee.
Chaired, Awards Committee
Revised Field Training Officer Program.
Addressed slow response time of city tow trucks, identifying problem and implemented solution with the Communications Unit Commander.
Assisted in the implementation of McGruff Safe House Project in the Kansas City, Missouri School District by obtaining assistance of the Records Unit Commander.
Developed and presented a training module at Pre-Sergeant's School titled "Supervisors' Responsibilities to the Public, Departments and Subordinates".
Attended Executive Committee and presented Board Report in Bureau Commander's absence.

CAPTAIN - COMMANDER, PLANNING AND RESEARCH(July 1990 - December 1990)
CAPTAIN - COMMANDER, CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT UNIT   (April 1989 - July 1990)
CAPTAIN - COMMANDER, COMMUNICATIONS UNIT   (May 1987 - April 1989)
CAPTAIN - EXECUTIVE OFFICER, TRAFFIC DIVISION   (June 1986 - May 1987)
CAPTAIN - WATCH COMMANDER, CENTRAL PATROL DIVISION   (July 1985 - June 1986)

Established Back-up Communications Center, procuring an automatic call distributor.
Led investigation resulting in the arrest/prosecution of the largest drug operation in Kansas City history.
Received "Special Unit Citation" for transferring communication functions to alternate site during headquarters fire.
Received "Special Unit Citation" for participation in dismantling ongoing criminal enterprises, particularly in the illegal drug trade.
Chaired task force to evaluate communications unit procedures regarding vehicle pursuits.
Academic Selection Board Member.

SERGEANT - PUBLIC AFFAIRS   (March 1984 - July 1985)
SERGEANT - COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE UNIT   (February 1983 - March 1984)
SERGEANT - PATROL   (January 1982 - February 1983)

POLICE OFFICER (December 1970 - January 1982)

EDUCATION

Webster University
Master of Arts - July 1987
Kansas City, Missouri
Major: Management

University of Missouri
Bachelor of Science - May 1978
Kansas City, Missouri
Major: Administration of Justice

Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy
Certificate of Completion - December 1990
Quanitco, Virginia

MILITARY BACKGROUND
United States Coast Guard Reserve
1978-1980

United States Marine Corps Reserve
1967-1973

PAST MEMBERSHIPS

International Association of Chiefs of Police
Missouri Police Chiefs Association
Metro Chiefs and Sheriffs Association
Jackson County Drug Task Force – Board Member
Western Missouri Regional Police Academy – Board of Directors
Grain Valley Optimist Club
Grain Valley Historical Society
Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy Associates
Kansas City Police Credit Union, 1983-2000
Chair - Board of Directors (1994), Vice Chair - Board of Directors (1995-1996)

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