Editor, The Smithfield Times: 

I would like to take this opportunity to endorse Steven G. “Steve” Bowman for election to the Smithfield Town Council.

I write this letter because, as Steve’s former superior at the Marine Resources Commission for 14 years, I have witnessed first-hand his professionalism, dedication and perseverance.

Steve came to work for the commission in October 1992 as the deputy chief of our law enforcement division. He hit the ground running and immediately set out to professionalize the division to what is now one of the most respected marine police units anywhere. Part of that process involved Steve undertaking a thorough review of the finances of the division, and through his keen financial acumen he found numerous ways to save the taxpayer money.

He was promoted by me to chief of law enforcement in 1996 and continued to perform admirably in the way he testified before the Virginia General Assembly committees on complex matters and interacted with senators, delegates, cabinet members and the governors’ offices as well as the citizens we served. Steve could handle tasks such as waterborne security for presidential visits and budget projections flawlessly that always brought credit to the Marine Resources Commission.

When I retired in 2006, after serving the administrations of seven governors, Steve was rightfully appointed commissioner of Marine Resources. During his tenure as commissioner, he capably led the agency through some of the toughest budget times the commonwealth has seen.

Steve still enjoys a great reputation in Richmond and with his constituents in Tidewater due to his people skills devolved from his love to help and problem solve. He is truly a great man. I wholeheartedly endorse him for election. He will not disappoint; I can assure you of that.

 

William A. Pruitt

Williamsburg