March 28, 2024

Sheriff Mike Balmer says farewell at party

Sheriff Mike Balmer was greeted by citizens of Jasper County and fellow police officers Friday afternoon during a retirement party in his honor.

Both Jasper County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Newton Police Department officers were in attendance. Guests were treated to free cake and beverages and had an opportunity to talk to Balmer. A photobook highlighted moments of his 38 years of public service.

“I haven’t thought about it,” Balmer said about life after retirement. “(I will) still stay active in public.”

When Washington County Sheriff Jerry Dunbar was in need of help for food services and staff for a new prison, he tuned to Balmer for help and had worked with him in the Iowa State and Sheriffs & Deputies Association.

“He helped me,” Dunbar said. “Mike has always represented ISSDA.”

“I’ve worked with him for 25 years, and it’s been very wonderful,” 911 supervisor Nina Brown said. “He is a great public servant and boss.”