Combat veteran and proven leader Kristin Bills-Garcia today announced her candidacy for Jackson County Sheriff in the 2026 election. With a battle-tested record of leadership and high-stakes decision-making, Bills-Garcia is committed to delivering accountable, transparent leadership that empowers deputies and staff, strengthens community ties, and ensures the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office operates at peak effectiveness.
A U.S. Army Non-Commissioned Officer deployed to Iraq, Bills-Garcia earned the prestigious Combat Action Badge for her courage under fire. Her military service honed her ability to command in chaos, prioritize team welfare, and execute mission-critical decisions. Transitioning into public service, she has served Jackson County in both corrections and communications at the Sheriff’s Department, gaining experience in inmate management, intake and classification, emergency dispatch, critical incident response, and interagency coordination. In addition, Bills-Garcia has successfully owned and operated a small business, budgeting and managing daily operational demands.
“Jackson County needs a Sheriff who will lead by example, set a high standard for deputies and staff, and build an unbreakable trust with our communities,” Bills-Garcia declared. “Our brave men and women in uniform face immense challenges each day. They deserve a Sheriff capable of building and leading a highly effective law enforcement team, who is dedicated to protecting our communities, while maintaining fiscal responsibility with every taxpayer dollar. For too long, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jail staff have suffered from burnout caused by inadequate leadership. I will use proactive strategies and robust wellness programs to drive efficient, results-focused operations, and will implement performance-based reward and recognition programs that will greatly improve retention”
Bills-Garcia’s platform focuses on several key priorities, including boosting staffing and retention by attracting and supporting qualified personnel; elevating transparency through open communication and accountability; strengthening community partnerships to enhance public safety; and prioritizing officer wellness by supporting both mental and physical health to improve morale and sustainability within the workforce. Her platform also emphasizes collaboration, fostering strong relationships with community members and key stakeholders to ensure responsive policing, effective prevention, and shared responsibility for public safety.
“My experience as a Non-Commissioned Officer in Iraq taught me to lead decisively, care deeply for my team, and deliver results under the most demanding conditions,” Bills-Garcia added. “I am ready to bring that level of leadership and commitment to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.”
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