Bob Udell

Udell’s connection to Yakima County spans generations. His great-grandfather was a Yakima attorney and a pioneer apple grower on Naches Heights, while both his grandfather and father continued the family legacy as apple growers and local businessmen. Udell earned a degree in Horticulture from Washington State University and began his career in the fruit industry before committing his professional life to public service. Yakima County is not only where he works — it is where his family’s story continues.

Udell joined the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office 36 years ago, serving in nearly every role within the department. His experience includes patrolling county roads as a deputy, investigating serious crimes as a detective, and working in administrative leadership. This career provided him firsthand experience in every corner of Yakima County and a deep understanding of the challenges facing both rural and urban communities.

In 2018, Udell was elected Sheriff, expanding his responsibilities to include broader county leadership and management beyond law enforcement operations.

As Sheriff, Udell prioritized building strong relationships with cities, towns, and partner agencies throughout Yakima County. These partnerships helped advance critical public safety initiatives, including a long-overdue modern communications system, a regional SWAT team, and a local crime lab.

Udell also strengthened the internal structure of the Sheriff’s Office by focusing on hiring, accountability, and professional standards. His leadership included managing complex budgets responsibly while ensuring taxpayer dollars were used efficiently and transparently.

Yakima County is the place Udell has lived, worked, and served for decades. His career has provided extensive experience in public safety leadership, organizational management, and county budgeting. That background has given him a clear understanding of how county government functions and how effective collaboration leads to results.

This experience positions Udell to continue serving Yakima County in a leadership role that impacts the entire community.

Yakima County is an exceptional place with strong communities, dedicated public servants, and significant potential for future growth. Udell believes the County is at a pivotal moment, where thoughtful leadership and collaboration can create new opportunities while protecting what makes the region unique.

With experience working across county government, Udell sees clear paths forward by strengthening partnerships, sharing resources, and planning responsibly for the future. By building on existing relationships and maintaining a focus on fiscal responsibility, he believes Yakima County can continue to improve services, support local communities, and remain a place where people want to live, work, and visit.