From rescuing a lost snowmobiler in the mountains to planning two years ahead for his department, Franklin County Sheriff Cuyler Stoker has navigated the challenges and rewards of his first year in office.

Stoker said he decided to run for office after his predecessor chose not to seek reelection. He had experience working with the county that he felt would benefit him as sheriff.

"I had a good understanding of what the sheriff's office needed as a whole to progress forward and be successful," Stoker said. "I had the means to help that office move forward."

Stoker said his new role as sheriff has taken some getting used to. He said his experience has served him well, but like any new position, it offered a new perspective.

"Until you do the job, you never know what the job actually is," Stoker said.

Now that he's sheriff, Stoker said he has to look at the big picture and plan for the future. Many people may plan only for day-to-day activities, but he has to prepare for what's to come.

"I'm planning one or two years down the road for the deputies, dispatchers and civil office workers," Stoker said. "It's a lot of big picture stuff and planning."

The best part about being sheriff so far is working with all the deputies, dispatchers and civil office workers in the sheriff's office. Stoker loves getting to know them and being part of their lives.

"I've also had a lot of really good encounters with people in the public," Stoker said.

One memorable experience during Stoker's first year in office was when he had to search for a 14-year-old boy who was lost while snowmobiling in the mountains.

"We found him alive," Stoker said. "He was cold and scared, but he was good."

Stoker was able to get to know the boy and his family after the incident. He said everyone at the sheriff's office was glad to find him alive and that he's now safe.

"We've had other calls that have been tragic," Stoker said.

Stoker has also enjoyed getting to know all the people he's met during his time in office. He travels to all the cities in Franklin County for their City Council meetings to see what he can do to help them accomplish their goals.

"I've enjoyed getting to know their city leaders and workers," Stoker said.

Since taking office, Stoker has had many people ask if he likes his position as sheriff. He says he's glad he ran for office. It has been challenging but also rewarding.

"In Franklin County, everyone is working hard for the community," Stoker said. "I really like the direction everyone is taking us and the members of our community."