Former Langley mayor urges Bellingham readers to back Tavier Wasser

Scott Chaplin, who served as mayor of Langley from 2021 to 2023, has written to the Everett Herald to endorse Tavier Wasser for sheriff. Chaplin, a resident of Langley, says he knows Wasser personally and trusts his ability to lead the county’s law enforcement agency.

Chaplin states that the city hired Wasser after a nationwide search involving dozens of applicants. The vetting process included a private investigator’s report covering Wasser’s teenage years, interviews with former co-workers, a drug test, a psychological evaluation, and several in-person interviews. According to Chaplin, Wasser had excellent ideas for the police department and city management during his tenure.

The mayor-elect clarifies a point of contention in the race. Neither Wasser nor his opponent, Felici, are “constitutional sheriffs,” a term Chaplin describes as implying a sheriff is above local, state, and federal laws. Wasser used the term incorrectly in an early campaign speech but later admitted the mistake, Chaplin noted. Wasser is not a slick politician, but he admits errors and offers heartfelt opinions, Chaplin added.

Chaplin describes Wasser as a hard worker who advocates for officers and city staff. He says Wasser is never afraid to disagree or admit mistakes. In public, Wasser de-escalates tense situations and maintains a friendly, approachable demeanor. His background includes county deputy service, high-level Marine managerial responsibilities, and his time in Langley.

Chaplin argues that Wasser’s experience and professional demeanor make him an excellent choice for the entire community, regardless of political affiliation. He asks readers to vote for Wasser for sheriff.

The letter was published in the Everett Herald on Nov. 2, 2026. The Whatcom County sheriff’s election is scheduled for the general election in November.