Whoever makes it to the Sheriff's office in 2013 will begin their first day at work with many challenges. Both candidates say they are up to it.

One issue of many the new sheriff will face is a fleet of aging vehicles. According to Sheriff's Department Captain Ken Anderson, all but the newest 4 vehicles added to the fleet this year have more than 80 thousand miles on them. Many have at least 150 thousand miles and one has more than 160 thousand miles. Most insurance carriers suggest that municipalities not use vehicles with more than 160 thousand miles for safety reasons.

Come November, Former Sheriff's deputies James Dawson, a Republican will face off against Trion Police Officer Mark Schrader, a Democrat, who is also a former Chattooga County Sheriff's Deputy. This is one of many issues one of them will have to deal with.

Dawson said he would have to look at usage and stretching what we've got. He said he would look at selling some of the department's surplus vehicles and use that money to generate some revenue. He said there are options such as lease to purchase plans. He said having a good relationship with the county commissioner, talking things through, coming to an agreement and sticking to that agreement is important and can go a long way. He said there have been tough times before and everything is workable.

Schrader told AM1180 that mileage isn't as important as safety. said his first priority would be to make sure the high-mileage vehicles were safe until they could be replaced. He said he will also look at vehicle usage.