Sheriff Maketa changes mind, says he'll run for a 3rd term

El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa announced this afternoon he will seek re-election, less than three weeks after saying he would leave public service to pursue other endeavors.

Having been "inundated" with calls and e-mails and stopped on the street by people asking him to run for four more years, Maketa said he talked it over with his family during the weekend and changed his mind. The sheriff announced his decision to seek another term today following a snowy rally outside the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Bureau.

"At times I think this is all I know," Maketa said of the badge he's worn for more than 20 years, seven of which as sheriff. "There is something to be said for service before self."

On Jan. 20, Maketa announced he would not seek a third 4-year term, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family and that when the voters turned down a proposal last spring to extend a county property tax, he was disheartened.

Following today's announcement, made at a rally planned late last week by citizens and county employees encouraging him to change his mind, Maketa was met with hugs from citizens, sheriff's office employees, and County Commissioners Amy Lathen and Wayne Williams, among other county officials.

"The sheriff is one of the best public officials for my money. I think his record has proven that," said Richard Gandolf, a citizen who stood holding a sign that read, "Terry Maketa is the Best Sheriff Anywhere."