HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 - Charter Review Prop 2 Limiting Power of Council to Amend Charter Nov 3 2015 General Election-PassedAU270090A
-P"
PROCEDURE
Filing a Proposed Ballot Measure for Inclusion in
Election
(AUDITOR'S OFFICE — Elections)
This procedure applies to Auditor's Staff, the Prosecuting Attorney, the Assessor's Office, and
representatives of the cities and districts submitting A proposed ballot measure.
Actions by Cities and Representative of Districts:
1. Submits proposed ballot measure (considered ballot title) together with an explanatory
statement prepared by legal counsel to Auditor's Office. Must be submitted at least 46 days
prior to the election date for a special election, no later than the Friday immediately before
the first day of regular candidate filing for the primary election, or no later than the day of the
primary for a general election.
Actions by Election Clerk:
2. If received by mail or courier (e.g., Fourth Corner Network), date stamps Ballot Measure
Cover Sheet and the first page of the resolution. Gives to Office Coordinator to complete
steps 3-7.
3. If received over the counter, date stamps Ballot Measure Cover Sheet and the first page of
the resolution.
4. Checks that:
• the Ballot Measure Cover Sheet (FRM #AU270090F) is attached and complete,
• the resolution contains original signatures by a majority of commissioners or other
legislative body or is a certified copy by the clerk,
• the date of the election is stated in the resolution, and
• the explanatory statement is included if for a primary or general election.
4A. If packet not complete, returns packet to submitter to obtain missing information.
Process stops here.
5. Prepares Ballot Measure Receipt (See FRM #AU470090A). Makes a copy for file and
gives original to filer. (Note: Fill in ballot measure name only — no references to resolution
number.)
` 6. If for primary or general election, provides voter pamphlet information packet to submitter.
7. Gives all materials to Office Coordinator.
6a.
coons by Office Coordinator:
Creates ballot measure file folder and staples this procedure to front of folder to be used as
a checklist.
Ensures front staff completed and applied initials for Steps 2-7 above
WA
1 ails receipt if submitted by mail.
Files copy of ballot measure receipt and original documents submitted in the file folder.
1
Checks to see that explanatory statement word count was not exceeded. If it is, advises
Auditor. C& W e 9 t
hPolicies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas docx Page 1
Amended 4/24/15
Filing Proposed Ballot Measures for Inclusion in Election (cont.)
13. Gives file to Auditor or designee.
Actions by Auditor or designee:
14. If the word count of the explanatory statement is exceeded, contacts submitter to remedy-
_,_ - views validation requirements based on information submitted or by consulting with
submitter, what the passage requirements are, and under which RCW they are submitting
the measure, if applicable.
Puts a copy of validation information in the file and marks the passage requirement on the
folder in red.
-irDiscusses with submitter requested order if more than one ballot title is to be submitted.
a-KAssigns ballot measure number (sequential numbering for each special purpose or taxing
district).* Number formula = <<yyyy - #>>.
19 Reviews ballot title and headings for capitalization and punctuation.
20. Using green ink edits suggested corrections; initials changes; makes -same markings on
set to go to PA and Assessor.
21 Returns file to Office Coordinator.
Actions by Office Coordinator:
If the ballot title is submitted by the County or a district:
22. Prepares transmittal letter to the Prosecuting Attorney to review the ballot ' as defined in
RCW 29A.36.071) and prepares the concise description, if necess lowing 7 days for
processing.. (See FRM #AU470090B — Prosecuting Atty Me
23. Makes photocopy of resolution, validation figures (if a cable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. Attaches to Prosecuting Attorney's trans i al letter -
NOTE: If ballot title submitted by a cit , o review by the Prosecuting Attorney is
{� necessary.
]� 24. Prepares transmittal letter to lessor to review if there are taxing or funding implications,
allowing 7 days for prose ng to obtain their review. (See FRM #AU470090C — Assessor
Ballot Title Letter - se s to Janice Judge)
25. Makes photoco of resolution, validation figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. Att es to Assessor's transmittal letter.
26. Obtai signature on transmittal letters and puts copies in folder.
27. nd delivers packet to PA and Assessor.
8. Returns folder to file rack.
Actions by Prosecuting Attorney:
29. Reviews text of ballot title eadings of ballot measure.
30. Discusses wit mitter or counsel for submitter and recommends any changes, if any -
I" 31. Sen ransmittal letter to Auditor's Office with ballot title and headings to be used. (REF
U570090A — Response from Prosecuting Attorney)
Actions b sessor's Office:
If 32�- Re sews submission
( I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 2
Amended 4/24/15
Filing Proposed Ballot Measures for Inclusion in Election (cont.)
133 Pr ' es feedback to Auditor's office or sends return memo. (See REF #AU570090B —
Sample Memo from Assessor)
Actions by Office�erfrom
tor:
34. Date Stamp PA andplaces in the folder. Date stamps return memo from
Assess nd places in the folder.
35 ves to Auditor.
Actions by=title
V
�.ives
and headings and Assessor feedback.
I"
o Office Coordinator to prepare letter to the submitter.
Actions by Office Coordinator:
3 pares letter (FRM #AU470090D — Letter to District re Approved Ballot Title) to the
,,rebmitter and responsible official of the district outlining the ballot title and heading to be
u ed.
Obt
ains Auditor signature. 4 .r4ans signed letter and sends via email to District Contact Person 1 and District Contact
lPerson 2 from the Ballot Measure Cover Sheet. Sends copies of letter to other interested
p rties who have requested to be included by regular mail, fax or email upon request.
ompletes Certificate of Distribution (FIRM #AU470090E — Certificate of Distribution),
s aples to inside file folder, and prints out email transmittal.
. Places in file.
43. Gives file to Election Coordinator.
Actions by Election Coordinator:
44. Enters ballot measure, explanatory statement, Committee For & Committee Against
statements, and rebuttals in ballot measure template and in WEI.
45. Sets up ballot measure in EIMS.
46. Gives ballot title to ballot preparer for inclusion on ballot (unless court appeal is made of
ballot title)
46A. If court appeal, ballot preparer waits for court resolution (may design a placeholder in
the meantime).
47. Submits court ordered title to ballot preparer prior to preparation deadline.
*Namina Convention for Ballot Measure:
Line 1: Jurisdiction
Line 2: Proposition # (yyyy-#)
Line 3: Subject of Measure/Proposition
Other additional lines as needed.
hPolicies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 3
Amended 4/24/15
�GOM CO
Official Canvass of the General Election for
Whatcom County Home Rule Charter
o� Whatcom County, Washington
9SN��t Held Tuesday, November 3, 2015
State of Washington )
County of Whatcom )
The undersigned, being the officers designated by law as constituting the Whatcom County
Canvassing Board, have completed the canvass of votes as it pertains to the General Election held
November 3, 2015, within the boundaries of Whatcom County, State of Washington.
Proposition 2, proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, concerned limiting the
power of the Council to propose Charter amendments. County Council would be prohibited from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved by a 2/3
majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by a 7-0 vote.
Based on the criteria for passage which was supplied by the district, the measure Passed.
WITNESS our hand and seal this 24th day of November 2015.
Whatcom County Canvassing Board
Diana Bradrick; CKief Deputy Auditor
Royce Bupd(afij, _Cif -Duty Prosecuting Attorney
Barry Buchppan, Co
Hit`
p� 4
cav�rY
jI
mber, County Legislative Authority
Whatcom
WHATCOM 20151103 E
Advisory Vote No. 13
Under Votes: 5,490
Over Votes: 11
REPEALED
MAINTAINED
WC Proposition No. 2015-1
Under Votes: 2,811
Over Votes: 24
APPROVED
REJECTED
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 1
Under Votes: 2,667
Over Votes: 40
APPROVED
REJECTED
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 2
Under Votes: 3,664
Over Votes: 36
APPROVED
REJECTED
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 3
Under Votes: 3,936
Over Votes: 31
APPROVED
REJECTED
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 4
Under Votes: 4,771
Over Votes: 27
APPROVED
REJECTED
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 5
Under Votes: 4,534
Over Votes: 17
APPROVED
REJECTED
35,830 64.40%
19,805 35.60%
Total 55,635
28,320 48.58%
29,981 51.42%
Total 58,301
31,003 53.06%
27,426 46.94%
Total 58,429
29,636 51.60%
27,800 48.40%
Total 57,436
29,486 51.58%
27,683 48.42%
Total 57,169
47,448 84.22%
8,890 15.78%
Total 56,338
28,766 50.84%
27,819 49.16%
Total 56,585
Summary Report
November 3, 2015
Page 2 of 20
Whatcom County
Auditor's Office
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
Phone: (360) 778-5100
Fax: (360) 778-5101
Email: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor
November 25, 2015
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Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council
Whatcom County Council
311 Grand Ave., Suite 105
Bellingham, WA 98225
Dear Dana:
Debbie Adelstein
County Auditor
Diana Bradrick
Chief Deputy Auditor
Enclosed are copies of the certifications from the November 3, 2015 General Election
pertaining to Propositions 1 - 8 proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review
Commission, and Propositions 9 and 10 proposed by the Whatcom County Council.
For the Official Election Results and for the Precinct by Precinct Abstract, please refer
to our website at www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give me a call at 778-5130.
Sincerely,
2� 4ut �JY
Diana Bradrick
Chief Deputy Auditor
Enclosure
Licensing Recording Elections Administration
Licensing@comhatcomma.us Recording@comhatcomma.us Elections@comhatcornma.us Auditor@comhatcornma.us We gladly accept
360-778-5100 360-778-5100 360-778-5102 360-778-5105 relay calls.
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Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 2
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved
by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by
a 7-0 vote. This proposal should be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance
to submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance except that if a previous charter amendment
was approved by a 2/3 majority of the voters then no ordinance progosing to the voters
further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote of the
Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the
veto power of the County Executive.
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose Charter amendments if five of seven
councilmembers vote to adopt an ordinance presenting such proposal to the voters. This
amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission, if adopted, would alter that
requirement where the voters had previously approved an amendment on a matter by at
least a 2/3 majority. New proposals by the Council to further amend the Charter on that
matter could only be presented to the voters if adopted by a unanimous vote of all
councilmembers. A "yes" vote for this amendment is incompatible with a "yes" vote for
Proposition No. 10.
Nancy Moore
From: VotersPamphlet
Sent: Tuesday, August 04, 2015 5:41 PM
To: Nancy Moore
Subject: FW: 2015 general election ballot measures
Attachments: Explanatory Statements Charter Review from Dan Gibson.docx; Explanatory Statements
for Council from Karen Frakes.docx; Explanatory Statement for jail prop 073115
final.docx
Just the electronic copies —Jessie and I received orig. copies today and should have a folder for each one
From: Jill Nixon
Sent: Tuesday, August 04, 2015 3:29 PM
To: Elections
Cc: Dana Brown -Davis
Subject: 2015 general election ballot measures
See attached Word documents for:
• Ballot titles, text amendments, and explanatory statements for 8 Charter Review Commission proposed
ballot measures
• Ballot titles, text amendments, and explanatory statements for 2 Council proposed ballot measures
• Ballot title and explanatory statement for jail sales and use tax ballot measure
Jill Nixon
Administrative Clerk
Whatcom County Council Office
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-676-6690
NOTICE: All emails and attachments sent to and from Whatcom County are public records and may be subject to
disclosure pursuant to the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56)
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 2
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved
by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by
a 7-0 vote. This proposal should be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to
submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance, except that if a previous charter amendment
was approved by a 2/3 majority of the voters, then no ordinance proposing to the voters
further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote of the
Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the
veto power of the County Executive.
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose Charter amendments to the voters by enacting
ordinances presenting such amendments to the voters if five of seven councilmembers vote
to approve such proposal. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission, if
adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the voters had
previously approved an amendment on a matter by at least a 2/3 majority. In such
instances, new proposals by the Council to further amend the Charter on that matter could
only be presented to the voters if adopted by a unanimous vote of all councilmembers.
tr-v✓t
<A
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 2
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved
by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by
a 7-0 vote. This pprropoo a--sh'-ufd be y ,{ teo be
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to
submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance, except that if a previous charter amendment
was approved by a 2/3 majority of the voters, then. no ordinance proposing to the voters
further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote of the
Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the
veto power of the County Executive.
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose Charter amendments to the voters by enacting
ordinances presenting such amendments to the voters if five of seven councilmembers vote
to approve such proposal. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission, if
adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the voters had
previously approved an amendment on a matter by at least a 2/3 majority. In such
instances, new proposals by the Council to further amend the Charter on that matter could
only be presented to the voters if adopted by a unanimous vote of all councilmembers.
\ ; " ()-,
W
Whatcom County PqG�"' CO` Debbie Adelstein
Auditor's Office �r ;'si. s; z� County Auditor
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 r Election Division
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
Phone: (360) 676-6742
Fax: (360) 738-4556
Email: elections@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us./auditor
Ballot Measure Receipt
Date Received: 0 Iq 115
Received From: MLA�mun��hyrML
Name of Presenter and Title
OAI&L-k �
Name of organization
A311 (IM4 AV49ddress
--�3 u-o - u:7 u is w o
Phone Umail
Ballot Measure Name: LWAVX-\?0Q?-(
(not resolution tuber)
The Auditor's Office; Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above ballot
measure for inclusion in the
Primary or General Elections ONLY- Local Voters' Pamphlet:
If the ballot measure will be on the Primary or General Election ballot, Presenter
acknowledges receipt of the memo packet regarding ballot measure explanatory
statements, appointment of For and Against committees and forms, and
committee statement deadlines and requirements for inclusion in the Local
Voters' Pamphlet.
Presenter's Signature bate
I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.doc Rev. 04/24/15
�ECE11�E _
�a
Ballot Measure Cover She t
Ss,6;��t°} This cover sheet must accompany each ballot measure s rkn�ttgd4o�ng5VVhatcom
County Auditor.
Whatcom Count DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
Name of District: y OAIHATCOM_COUNTY AUDITM
District Address: 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225
District Contact Person 1: Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council
(Name and Title)
Contact Person 1 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: dbrown@co.whatcom.wa.us
District Contact Person 2: Jill Nixon, Administrative Clerk
(Name and Title)
Contact Person 2 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: Jnixon@co.whatcom.wa.us
a
Attorney for District: Daniel Gibson
Attorney Phone: 360-676-6784
Email: dgibson@co.whatcom.wa.us
Has your attorney prepared this ballot measure? AA Yes ❑ No
Type of Election
County Charter Amendment
(e.g., Levy, Bond, Levy Lid Lift, etc.)
State the Pass/Fail Requirement for the Measure as Determined by District's Legal Counsel:
A majority of the voters voting on the issue.
(e.g., Simple Majority, 60%, Minimum Turnout, etc.)
List Applicable Statutory References: Whatcom County Charter Section 8.20 (second paragraph)
Attached the Resolution with original signatures - or - a certified copy of the original
Resolution?
Attached the Explanatory Statement for the Local Voters' Pamphlet? (now required for all
elections)
Also sent the Resolution and Explanatory Statement electronically to:
elections ,co.whatcom.wa.us?
Attached the "For' and "Against" Committee Appointment Forms?
Fully completed this cover sheet?
This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's Website: www. whatcomcounly. us/auditor/
ImA Yes
M Yes
jW Yes
Yes
0 Yes
Note: The County Auditor will not accept a resolution without the completed cover sheet. It is the
submitter's responsibility to ensure that requested documentation is presented no later than the
resolution deadline date.
CLERK ro THE COUNCIL S
COUNCILMEMBERS
R"'CEIVEE!
Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C. Barbara Brenner
AUG a 4 2015 Rud Browne
COUNTY COURTHOUSE Barry Buchanan
311 Grand Avenue, Suite #105 Pete chanaKremen
Bellingham, WA 98225 4038 Ken Mann
(360) 676-6690 DEBBIE A,DELSTEIN Satpal Sidhu
*HATCOM COUNTY AUDITaR Carl Weimer
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
July 22, 2015
MEMORANDUM
TO: County Auditor Debbie Adelstein .
FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair EW
SUBJ: Council Action at the July 21, 2015 meeting.
The Council, at its July 21, 2015 meeting, took action as shown on the portion of minutes
printed below:
OTHER ITEMS
9. RECEIPT AND FORWARDING OF WHATCOM COUNTY
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS TO THE WHATCOM COUNTY VOTERS
(AB2015-219)
Browne moved to forward the amendments to the Auditor to
be included on the November general election ballot. The
motion was seconded
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Brenner, Kremen, Sidhu, Browne, Buchanan, and Weimer (6)
Nays: None (0)
Absent: Mann (1)
The Charter Review Commission, in cooperation with Chief Civil Deputy Prosecutor Daniel
Gibson, approved ballot titles for the amendments. Please see the attached information for
the specific list of Charter Review Commission amendments.
c: Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council
Daniel Gibson, Senior Civil Deputy Prosecutor
Nancy Moore, Office Coordinator
AB2015-219
Correspondence file
Att. 2015 Whatcom County Charter Review Commission Amendments
CW/jkn
I:/shared/council/Carl Weimer/2015/After Council Meeting/Charter Amendments to Auditor
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, w,4SJUNGTON
�S17i�T�19Qw17[-CkXrqjthe Council
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 1
METHOD OF ELECTING COUNCIL MEMBERS
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter concerning the method of electing County Council members. This
measure would amend Charter Section 2.13 to provide for election of County Council
members by voters only from within the council district from which the candidate was
nominated, except for the at -large position which would continue to be selected by voters
from the entire county. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED
REJECTED
Text Amendment:
Section 2.13 Election amide by Council_ District
The registered voters of Whateem Go each CouncilDistrict shall vote upon each council
member position to be filled From their district at the November general election. The
candidate receiving the highest number of votes for each position shall be elected.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 2
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved
by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by
a 7-0 vote. This proposal should be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to
submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance, except that if a previous charter amendment
was approved by a 2,13 majority of the voters then no ordinance ro osin to the voter
Further amendment of that matter _shalI be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote_Qf the
Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the
veto power of the County Executive.
H:\Jill\Charter Review Comm ission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 3
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER'S ELECTION PROVISIONS
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing any Charter amendment to Charter Sections 2.12 or 2.13, which pertain to the
method of nominating and electing County Council members, except if the Council adopts a
proposal for such amendment by a 7-0 vote. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to
submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance. No ordinance proposing amendment of any
provision of Sections 2.12 or 2.13 of this Charter shall be adopted by the Council except by
a 7-0 affirmative vote. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be
subject to the veto power of the County Executive.
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 4
WORD LIMIT FOR BALLOT QUESTIONS
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter to provide greater consistency with state law regarding the
wording of initiatives and referenda. This measure would amend Charter Sections 5.40 and
5.60 pertaining to initiatives and referenda and increase the word limit for ballot questions
from 20 to 40 words. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED
REJECTED
'Text Amendment:
Section 5.40 Initiative - Procedures.
H:Vill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
Any legal voter or organization of legal voters of Whatcom County may file an initiative
proposal with the County Auditor, who within five (5) days, excluding Saturday, Sunday and
holidays, shall confer with the petitioner to review the proposal as to form and style. The
Auditor shall give the proposed initiative a number, which shall thereafter be the identifying
number for the measure. The Auditor shall then transmit a copy of the proposal to the
Prosecuting Attorney, who within ten (10) days after receipt thereof, in consultation with
the petitioner shall formulate a eancise sta��ent,pesmtive quest,e.. ,Fret -to
exe-eed-t►nren,tyL{ 0) 1 1 which-s ��ru express and �ezt.....�_and aFtial statement a
+ J.. 4AF./1 �.�.7 GilLi
t#e-pufp se =f `_he-ffieasufe the ballot title which shall consist of: a a statement of the
sub ect of the measure b a concise description of the measure: and c a uestion: "Shall
this be enacted into law?" The statement of the sub'ect of the measure must be proposed
as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to reflect the subject, and be sufficient)
precise taa Rive notice of the measure's sub"ect matter, and not exceed ten words. The
concise description must contain no more than thirty words be a true and impartial
description of the measure's essential contents —dearly identify the proposition to be voted
on, and not, to the extent reasonably ossible create prejudice either for or against the
measure. Such concise statement will be the ballot title. The petitioner then has one
hundred and twenty (120) days ...
Section 5.60 Referendum - Procedures.
Any legal voter, or organization of legal voters of Whatcom County may file a referendum
proposal, against any enacted ordinance or portion thereof, with the County Auditor. The
proposal shall be presented to the Auditor within forty-five (45) days after the ordinance is
passed by the County Council.
Within five (5) days, excluding Saturday, Sunday and holidays, the Auditor shall confer with
the petitioner to review the proposal as to form and style. The Auditor shall give the
referendum proposal a number, which shall thereafter be the identifying number for the
measure. The Auditor shall then transmit a copy of the proposal to the County Prosecuting
Attorney, who within ten (10) days after receipt thereof, shall formulate a-eeneise
slater Brit pO$ d` 5 a tli?5ti6rr, _'v`3£`RcY % , aWe*P, __I af9d
a-rtialstateme; rt � e -measureb g- e--red the ballot title which
shall consist of: a a statement of the subject of the measure b a concise description of
the measure; and c aquestion: "Shall this be enacted into law?" The statement of the
subject of the measure must be proposed as a positive statement be sufficient!y broad to
reflect the subject, and be sufficiendrecise to Clive notice of the measure's subject
matter, and not exceed ten wards. The concise description mu t contain no more than
thirty words be a true and impartial description of the measure's essential contents clearly
identify the oroposition to be voted on and not to the extent reasonably possible, create
prejudice either f r or against the measure. Such concise statement will be the ballot title.
The petitioner then has one hundred and twenty (120) days...
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Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 5
LOWERING THRESHOLD FOR INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM SIGNATURES
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter lowering the number of signatures required to place initiatives and
referenda on the ballot. This measure would amend Sections 5.40 and 5.60 to lower the
threshold of signatures required to place an initiative or referendum on the ballot from 15%
of the number of votes cast in the last general election to 8% of the number of votes cast in
the last regular gubernatorial election. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 5.40,
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of the
registered voters in the county equal in number to net less-•n;a,r�o-o#ve-past-l-the
county in the last ge r—a' elee `��of not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in the
last regular gubernatoriai election...."
Section 5.60
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of
registered voters in the county equal in number to not less-tr an ' E)F the vote cast the
eebnty '.. the ;ast general e'ectme; er not less than 8% of the vote cast In the county in the
last regular gubernatorial election. ..."
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 6
LOWERING THE NUMBER OF SIGNATURES REQUIRED FOR CITIZEN INITIATIVES TO AMEND
CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter reducing signatures required to place citizen -proposed Charter
amendments on the ballot. This measure would amend Charter Section 8.22 to lower the
number of signatures required for placement upon the ballot of proposed Whatcom County
Charter changes by citizen initiative from 20% to 15% of the number of votes cast in the
County in the last gubernatorial election. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.22 Amendments by the Public
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The public may propose amendments to the Charter by registering with the Auditor an
initiative petition bearing the signatures of registered voters of the county equal in number
to, but not less than, twenty(20(_0) fifteen (15) percent of the number of votes cast in the
county in the last gubernatorial election. Signatures shall be registered not more than one
hundred twenty (120) days following filing of the petition with the Auditor, who shall submit
the amendments to the voters. The one hundred and twenty (120) day period shall begin
upon receipt of official notification to petitioner(s) by the Prosecuting Attorney's Office either
by certified mail or messenger. If the last day for collecting signatures falls on a weekend or
legal holiday, then the one hundred and twenty (120) day period shall extend to the end of
the next business day. (Amended by referendum 1986; Ord. 93-045; amended by
referendum 1995; Ord. 2005-075 Exh. A)
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 7
TERM LIMITS FOR COUNTY EXECUTIVE AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter to place term limits upon the County Executive and County
Council members. This measure would amend Charter Sections 2.14 and 3.21 to apply a
term limit of no more than three consecutive full terms to the County Executive and County
Council members, to be applied prospectively only, beginning with the 2017 and 2019
elections. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED
REJECTED
Text Amendment:
Section 2.14 Terms of Council Members.
The term of office of each elected councilmember shall be four (4) years commencing with
the second Monday in January following election, and until a successor has been elected and
has qualified. Elected counciimembers shall serve no more than three consecutive full
terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive unless they are at least four apart.
The limit in terms shall be applied pro pectiveIy only, beginning with the elections in 2017
and 2019.
Section 3.21 Election and Term of Office.
The County Executive shall be nominated and elected by the voters of the county, and
the term of office shall be four years and until the successor is elected and qualified. The
County Executive shall serve no more than three consecutive full terms in office. Terms are
considered consecutive unless_they zre at least four-year�apart. The limit in terms jhaII be
applied prospectively only, beainni_ng with the election in 2019.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 8
ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION
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t
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter to alter the requirements for composition of the Districting
Commission. This measure would amend Charter Section 4.41 to include representation on
the districting committee from each political party with a candidate who receives at least
15% of the vote cast in the County in the last gubernatorial primary or presidential election,
with a second representative on the committee assigned to each party of which a candidate
for those same elections received at least 33% of the vote. Should this proposal be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 4.41 Districting Committee.
During the month of January, 1981, and by January 31 of each tenth year thereafter, a f ve-
,T,embeT Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint few
persens. to the committee, tone representative from each major political party, defined
as the stated party of any candidate receiving at feast 1511/❑ of the vote in Whatcom Count
in the most recent ciubernatonal rima or presidential election. Parties with a candidate
receiving at least 330Io of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second
representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even
the fete-appe+firt appointees will select a fifth an additional member who shall be the
Chairman. If the total number s add the Committee will vote for and apQoint a Chair
internally. The Districting Committee shall within thirty (30) days of its appointment meet
and appoint a Districting Master who shall be qualified by education, training and experience
to draw a districting plan. If the Districting Committee is unable to agree upon the
appointment of a Districting Master within thirty (30) days, the County Council shall appoint
a Districting Master by March 31 of that year.
H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 2
LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER
The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the
Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments.
This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from
proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved
by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by
a 7-0 vote. This proposal should be:
APPROVED:
REJECTED:
Text Amendment:
Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council.
The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to
submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election
occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes
shall be required to enact such an ordinance, except that if a previous charter amendment
was approved by a 2/3 majority of the voters then no ordinance ro osin to the voters
further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote of the
Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the
veto power of the County Executive.
The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to
the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or
obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose Charter amendments to the voters by enacting
ordinances presenting such amendments to the voters if five of seven councilmembers vote
to approve such proposal. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission, if
adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the voters had
previously approved an amendment on a matter by at least a 2/3 majority. In such
instances, new proposals by the Council to further amend the Charter on that matter could
only be presented to the voters if adopted by a unanimous vote of all councilmembers.
Committee Statement Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
k��hw6�2
This is the statement of the: xx
for the: Primary Election
District: Whatcom County
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501)
Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
General Election
Proposition Name: Proposition 2: Limiting power of Council to change Charter
(e.g_, General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
This form is available in a fellable form on the Auditor's website:
www. whatcomcounty. us/auditor/
This form must be filled out in its entirety and returned with the committee statement.
Chair Member Name: Delaine Clizbe
Contact Phone: 961-5764
E-mail: delaine918@gmail.com
Committee members' names and the committee name (if applicable) will be published in the Local
Voters' Pamphlet in conjunction with the For/Against statements.
The Following will be Published:
"Statement Prepared by":
Committee Name, if applicable
Delaine Clizbe, Chair
Committee Member Name
Karl Uppiano, member
Committee Member Name
Ben Elenbaas, member
Committee Member Name
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and
RCW 42.17.
CO
3 a Committee Appointment Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election_ General Election
District: (_i1' (" P1�1 L,6Lkr�l Proposition Name:(M(.1,�'` _, t-t kn
(e.g., Bellingham School District 5011 (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
NOTE: The Chair of the committee will be the contact person if there are any questions from Auditor's staff.
The phone numbers and e-mail addresses listed below will not be published.
This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/
Committee Members
1. Chair Member Name: -4UI FWD
Contact Phone: 011isE-mail: t'r r 1 bkG i �o
r
Signature: la 262
2. Member Name: ter
Contact Phone: 36o Sq S " ` i3o E-mail: bee rcha rlerrevic.
Signature
►tom
Q 3rY10Lr► ) •C&O-N
3. Member Name: -b,6a n e_ Cl-iZ16r-
Contact Phone: � Lvi E-mail: d-dwr e- 116 @�f
Cep
Signature:
certify the above named individuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated.
Authorized Signature (Ind
authority to sign for the District)
Date
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and 42.17.
I:\Nancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc
r�,t`°~ tot, , Committee Statement Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
�tNIM6�°
This is the statement of the: Committee FOR L& Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election - X, General Election
District: C4AV---1E'J0 Ktl/l r-v4 l 1L`'P l Proposition Name: C u AR1Ge
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) (e,g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
This form is available in a tillable form on the Auditor's website:
www. whatcomcounty. us/auditor/
This form must be filled out in its entirety and returned with the committee statement.
Chair Member Name'. —4L-tC� wAc-L-V-
Contact Phone: C3&L)) zz-3 - l D' E-mail: � i ►�,�_ 4� �L c <<., bov*K,
Committee members' names and the committee name (if applicable) will be published in the Local
Voters' Pamphlet in conjunction with the For/Against statements.
The Following will be Published.
"Statement Prepared by":
Committee Name, if applicable
F 61-JAe- 6 �-') A-1
Committee Member Name
Committee Member Name
Committee Member Name
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and
RCW 42.17.
fFM Co
Committee Apeointment Form
} Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
I
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
i
for the: Primary Election � General Election
R
District: �� Proposition Name: C",V-)CukCAYq-r")d
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
(VOTE: The Chair of the committee will be the contact person if there are any questions from Auditor's staff.
The phone numbers and e-mail addresses listed below will not be published.
This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/
Committee Members
G"r Member Name: �)C*YACG�
Contact Phone: �� P1t;t0_ E-mail: MOSiec5bl&d
1. ca r+�t
Signature:
2. Member Name: Al 1 C_ 11) al k er
Contact Phone: &CO12_>_ E-mail: 0L1ieMUYl k1uef-QJNIM)l. CT
i
VSignature-. - �-
3. Member Name:' 05� a" Y)f_ btw0 hi
Contact Phone: a41— -7kc -i E-mail:1,3my) n'e— i3
V�ignature:. C6(1.\
I hereby certify the above named individuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated.
Authorized Signature (Individual with authority to sign for the District) Date
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and 42.17.
1ANancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc