By Kathryn Reed

It took an hour of discussion today before Fred Kollar was appointed interim sheriff of El Dorado County.

Kollar, who was appointed undersheriff by Sheriff Neves when he took office, will fill out the rest of Neves’ term. Neves’ resignation is effective Dec. 26.

Fred Kollar

It was a 3-2 vote Dec. 10 to appoint Kollar. Supervisors Ray Nutting and Ron Briggs voted no.

“Bottomline, in times like these, we need continuity, and Kollar not only provides this continuity, but also has the proven leadership skills to move forward during this time of transition,” Supervisor Norma Santiago told Lake Tahoe News.

Kollar has worked both sides of the county. He lived in South Lake Tahoe for a number of years.

One of the strengths he brings is familiarity with budget issues — which is needed in these economic times.

Kollar also is not running for sheriff.

The primary is in June. Candidates cannot officially declare until next year, but seven people have expressed interest in the job. If no one wins the primary outright, the runoff will be in November.