HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 - Charter Review Prop 3 Limiting Power of Council to Amend Charter's Elec. Prov. Nov 3 2015 General Election-PassedAU270090A
PROCEDURE IAL
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
4 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.
Actions by Office Coordinator:
Creates ballot measure file folder and staples this procedure to front of folder to be used as
a checklist.
9^Ens ures front staff completed and applied initials for Steps 2-7 above
Mails receipt if submitted by mail.
CPYFiles copy of ballot measure receipt and original documents submitted in the file folder.
QPJ 2. Checks to see that explanatory statement word count was not exceeded. If it is, advises
Auditor.
1
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Amended 4/24/15
Filing Proposed Ballot Measures for Inclusion in Election (cont.)
4��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.
eviews 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.
,,11 Puts a copy of validation information in the file and marks the passage requirement on the
folder in red.
,4-�-IDiscusses with submitter requested order if more than one ballot title is to be submitted.
,,1g�-Assigns ballot measure number (sequential numbering for each special purpose or taxing
district).* Number formula = <<yyyy - #>>.
1.9. 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 tojpwrew the ballot title (as defined in
RCW 29A.36.071) and prepares the concise descrip , if necessary, allowing 7 days for
processing.. (See FRM #AU470090B - Pro"ires(Cif
Atty Memo)
23. Makes photocopy of resolution, validationapplicable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. Attaches to Prosecuting Attorn transmittal letter.
NOTE: If ballot title submitted a city, no review by the Prosecuting Attorney is
necessary.
24. Prepares transmittal le r to Assessor to review if there are taxing or funding implications,
allowing 7 days for ocessing to obtain their review. (See FRM #AU470090C - Assessor
Ballot Title Lett - sends to Janice Judge)
25. Makes ph copy of resolution, validation figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. taches to Assessor's transmittal letter.
26. Oj)tains signature on transmittal letters and puts copies in folder.
Z� " Hand delivers packet to PA and Assessor.
28. Returns folder to file rack.
Actions by Prosecuting A ney:
29. Reviews text of ba title and headings of ballot measure.
30. Discusses submitter or counsel for submitter and recommends any changes, if any.
31. Send ransmittal letter to Auditor's Office with ballot title and headings to be used. (REF
570090A - Response from Prosecuting Attorney)
Action Assessor's Office:
f� 3 eviews submission,
r ` L: Policies & ProcedureslElectionsl02_Pre-Election104 Filing - Ballot MeasuresTRo Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 2
Amended 4/24115
Filing Proposed Ballot Measures for Inclusion in Election (cont.)
SProvides feedback to Auditor's office or sends return memo. (See REF #AU570090B —
ample Memo from Assessor)
Actions by Office Coordi r:
34. Date Stamp er from PA and places in the folder. Date stamps return memo from
AAsses nd places in the folder.
3 Ives to Auditor.
Actions by AZ
ditor:
36. Reviews itle and headings and Assessor feedback.
37. G s to Office Coordinator to prepare letter to the submitter.
Actions by Office Coordinator:
38. Prepares letter (FRM #AU470090D — Letter to DisUietre Approved Ballot Title) to the
submitter and responsible official of the distr' utlining the ballot title and heading to be
used.
39. Obtains Auditor signature.
40. Scans signed letter a sends via email to District Contact Person 1 and District Contact
Person 2 from th allot Measure Cover Sheet. Sends copies of letter to other interested
parties who a requested to be included by regular mail, fax or email upon request.
41. Com es Certificate of Distribution (FRM #AU470090E — Certificate of Distribution),
s es 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.
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Amended 4/24/15
�r0M Co
r° „ Official Canvass of the General Election for
Whatcom County Home Rule Charter
Whatcom County, Washington
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 3, 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 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.
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
ck,'Chief Deputy Auditor
r'-
, Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Member, County Legislative Authority
Whatcom
WHATCOM_20151103_E
Advisory Vote No. 13
Under Votes: 5,490
Over Votes: 11
REPEALED
35,830
64.40%
MAINTAINED
19,805
35.60%
Total
55,635
WC Proposition No. 2015-1
Under Votes: 2,811
Over Votes: 24
APPROVED
28,320
48.58%
REJECTED
29,981
51.42%
Total
58,301
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 1
Under Votes: 2,667
Over Votes: 40
APPROVED
31,003
53.06%
REJECTED
27,426
46.94%
Total
58,429
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 2
Under Votes: 3,664
Over Votes: 36
APPROVED
29,636
51.60%
REJECTED
27,800
48.40%
Total
57,436
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 3
Under Votes: 3,936
Over Votes: 31
APPROVED
29,486
51.58%
REJECTED
27.683
48.42%
Total
57,169
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 4
Under Votes: 4,771
Over Votes: 27
APPROVED
47,448
84.22%
REJECTED
8,890
15.78%
Total
56,338
Charter Amendment Proposition No. 5
Under Votes: 4,534
Over Votes: 17
APPROVED
28,766
50.84%
REJECTED
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
Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council
Whatcom County Council
311 Grand Ave., Suite 105
Bellingham, WA 98225
Dear Dana:
�GQM CO
IN 0
t�
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,
Diana Bradrick
Chief Deputy Auditor
Enclosure
Licensing Recording Elections Administration
Licensing@comhatcomma.us Recording@co.whatcornma.us Elections@comhatcornma.us Auditor@comhatcomma.us We gladly accept
360-778-5100 360-778-5100 360-778-5102 360-778-5105 relay calls.
j t Ire (yi ow -1 fi)n--
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.
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 change that
requirement when the Council is proposing amendments to Charter Sections 2.12 and 2.13
which address the election of councilmembers. A proposal to amend those particular
sections could only be presented to the voters if the Council adopted such a proposal by a
unanimous vote of all councilmembers. A "yes" vote for this amendment is incompatible
with a "yes" vote for Proposition No. 10.
2
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. 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.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose County Charter amendments to the voters by
enacting ordinances presenting such proposals if five of the seven councilmembers vote to
approve such an ordinance. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission,
if adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the Council is
proposing amendments to Charter Sections 2.12 and 2.13 which address the election of
councilmembers. A proposal to amend those particular sections could only be presented to
the voters if the Council adopted such a proposal by a unanimous vote of all
councilmembers.
VU,
�I w
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 and
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.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose County Charter amendments to the voters by
enacting ordinances presenting such proposals if five of the seven councilmembers vote to
approve such an ordinance. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission,
if adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the Council is
proposing amendments to Charter Sections 2.12 and 2.13 which address the election of
councilmembers. A proposal to amend those particular sections could only be presented to
the voters if the Council adopted such a proposal by a unanimous vote of all
councilmembers. C.t
Whatcom County ��oM CO Debbie Adelstein
rP ' ti
Auditors Office 3 . A County Auditor
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 r Election Division
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 'sNIN��o
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 N /I s
Received From: Jdf Mx6vi A&tAikhaheC1YA
Name of Presenter and Title
Name of Organization
311 AV Ste t d s
Address
r0-71. jobqo 4 n ow a ". w 64wp,.vvn,, us
Phone U Email
Ballot Measure Name: �' t�J� Y � � tl' ' kVA ClOtJtr:�
(not resol4ti number)oev
The Auditor's Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above ballot
measure for inclusion in the %LS Nov. (x.2,vt+4 Election.
Deputy Auditor
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. c
Presenter's Signature Date
I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.doc Rev. 04/24/15
3�
,�CPM C4
Ballot Measure Cover Sheet R ECE 1
This cover sheet must accompany each ballot measure submitted to the Whatcom
�3FrI IYGK�
County Auditor. AUG 0 4 2015
Name of District: Whatcom County DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
District Address.
am, A T°�
GUN UO
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105, Belling
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
Attorney for District: Daniel Gibson
Attorney Phone: 360-676-6784
Email: jnixon@co.whatcom.wa.us
Email: dgibson@co.whatcom.wa.us
Has your attorney prepared this ballot measure?
Type of Election: County Charter Amendment
(e.g., Levy, Bond, Levy Lid Lift, etc.)
Yes ❑ No
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:
election sCa_)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.whatcomcounty.uslauditorl
rmil Yes
* Yes
Yes
r Yes
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 OF THE COUNCIL
Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C.
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Suite #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360) 676-6690
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
July 22, 2015
MEMORANDUM
TO: County Auditor Debbie Adelstein
h�
FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair
SUBJ: Council Action at the July 21, 2015 meeting.
COUNCILMEMBERS
E I rBrenner
CEu rne
Vj�
B hanan
* remen
Ken Mann
Satpal Sidhu
A U G 0 4 2015 Carl Weimer
DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
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(l)
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.
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
RWAT'COM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY; W.4SHNGTON
1QiC:(LI Camera ��py
42-Br_
Dnwrt- the Qur=7
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 Whateern Ge each Council District 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 3 rnaiQrity of the voters [hen no ordinance Droposing 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.
H;\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot 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 _pro osin amendment ❑f an
P-rovisionof Sections_2.12 or 2.13 of this Charter shall be ad�ted 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:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.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 eenemse stattement, pased as a positive questien, net to
exceed twently QG, --A_
% ) r ...... H. shall express and give a true and impaFtial statement-ef
the pu=pes the the ballot title whi h sh II consist of: a statement of the
subject of the measure b concise description of the measure,- an a estion: " hall
his be enacted into law?" The statement of the subject of the measure must be proposed
as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to reflect thesubject, and be sufficiently
recise to give notice of th-e measure's subject matter, and not x ed ten words. The
concise descri i n mu t contain no more than thirty words bg a true and impartial
descril2tion of the measure's essential contents cleady identi the proposition to be voted
on, and nat to_the extent reasonabl ossible create rp udice either for or aciainst 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
statiei "osed-asa ques6en, n6Fit, E20) wards, which shall
.,..... ./ sLUGG....L..G ., he ballot title which
shall consist of: a a statement of the s&ect of the measur b a concise description of
the measure and c a -question, "Shall this enacted into law?" T t Cement of the
s-u4jgct.of the measure must be proposed as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to
reflect the subject and be suffici ntiv orecise to ive notice of the measure's subject
ma er and n t e ceed ten words. The concise description must contain n❑ m re than
thirty words a a true and imp@fVal description of the measure's essential contents clearly
identi the proposition to be v t on and not to the extent reasonably possible, create
prejudice either for or against the measur . Such concise statement will be the ballot title.
The petitioner then has one hundred and twenty (120) days...
H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
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 jess-t ;m 5% e e vote cart in the
eouflty-in the isfraf not less than 8% of the vote cask in the county in the
last regular gubernatorial 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 n-et less than 15% f the vote-t"ast �`
eaunty OR the last eneraheiectien a not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in the
fast 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
H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
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 9) 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 councilmembers shall serve no more than three consecutive full
terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive unless they are at least four years apart.
The limit in t_ermg shall be applied pros pectivel_y 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 aomseeuti�e unless they_are at least four years apart. The limit in terms shall be
applied prospectively only, eyi_nning with the election in 2019.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 8
ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION
H:\JIII\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
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 €tve-
,Tember Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint €eaw
perseAS to the committee, twe-one representative from each major political party, defined
as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 151% of the vote in Whatcom Count
in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election. Parties with a candidate
receiving at least 33010 of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second
repres_gntative on the Districting Committee. I€ the number of total representatives is even,
the €eta to appei4 appointees will select afifth an additional member who shall be the
Chairman. If the total number is odd, the Committee will vote_ for andar)Qoint 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 amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx
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 anv
rovision of Sections 2.12 or 2.13 of this Charter shall be adopted by the Council exce t b
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.
Explanatory Statement:
Currently the County Council may propose County Charter amendments to the voters by
enacting ordinances presenting such proposals if five of the seven councilmembers vote to
approve such an ordinance. This amendment proposed by the Charter Review Commission,
if adopted, would change that requirement in those instances in which the Council is
proposing amendments to Charter Sections 2.12 and 2.13 which address the election of
councilmembers. A proposal to amend those particular sections could only be presented to
the voters if the Council adopted such a proposal by a unanimous vote of all
councilmembers.
Committee Statement Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
�+tiiMato
This is the statement of the: x Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election x General Election
District: _Whatcom County
(e_g., Bellingham School District 501)
Proposition Name: P`orosition3Uniting the ao%,reraco,nGiioarnend ChanamcInawnp—moons
(e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website:
www. whatcomcounty. us/auditor/
This form must be filled out in its entirety and returned with the committee statement.
Chair Member Name: Delaine Clizbe
Contact Phone: 961-5764
E-mail: delaineglB@gmail.com
Committee members' names and the committee name (if applicable) will be published in the Local
Voters' Pamphlet in conjunction with the For/Against statements.
The Following will be Published:
"Statement Prepared by":
Committee Name, if applicable
Delaine Clizbe, Chair
Committee Member Name
Karl Uppiano, Member
Committee Member Name
Chet Dow, Member
Committee Member Name
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and
RCW 42.17.
Committee Apliointment Form
;$ry�HGo Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election General Election
District: LNich-bon 0.[ U jih Proposition Name: (!0aK-�_4'AA_'Z
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (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
-bj§W Member Name: C, b e +- Do U-)
Contact Phone:
3%oi -S lob, E�-mail:
�ma'� I Cor►�
Signature:
2. Member Name: art
Contact Phone: 3 CoO - 9 a- 0a?5- E-mail: Iai") ,avlo C'-
�.LCY_i� Cvr
Signature:
3. Member Name (Q he__ C 112
Contact Phone: q to I — 5-7(-e4
Signature
E-mail: ddaone9i p e 3rval)
-
Coli"
I hereby certify the above named i 'viduals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated.
7 a cl� -
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.
I:\Nancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc
,(PM Cp
Committee Statement Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the statement of the:
for the: Primary Election
District: Whatcom County
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501)
Committee FOR X Committee AGAINST
X General Election
Proposition Name: Proposition No. 3
(e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000)
This form is available in a fi/lable form on the Auditor's website:
www, whatcom county. us/auditor/
This form must be filled out in its entirety and returned with the committee statement.
Chair Member Name: Iris Maute-Gibson
Contact Phone: 360-224-4313 E-mail: iris. mautegibson@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
April Barker
Committee Member Name
Tom Stuen
Committee Member Name
Iris Maute-Gibson
Committee Member Name
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and
RCW 42.17.
if c+.yi aL
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: _ )1 i rAA P`, OA�UAV Proposition Name: 4,rkY 1 AC Is
(e.g.. Bellingham School District 501) J (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
[. C.. r Member Name: r r y-
Contact Phone: � C) �'_-] 57 � S` -E-mail:
�'~ _ �- ��I�.�c: �• t cam,
Signature: r" :[ ✓ `�
r
2. Member Name:
Contact Phone: _Lvy-7 - 0 � (dc �
Signature:
03. Member Name: Zo �ACLu--'lr_- 2,111 "n
Contact Phone: -3601 1;L.AL1"" -# -E-mail: 1 k1-1
J jyjG�'F i
Signature:
J Cofvl
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.
I: 1Nancy120151FRM committee Appt Fa m.doc
re-y� �-..
Committee ANNointment Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
AffihlN6��
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR I Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election General Election
District: A()i,✓17� Proposition Name: 0 h(-Ar- Arwnrf: 3
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (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. C#Wr Member Name: r 1 C
Contact Phone: t� z5 s7 Z� E-mail: (: .- �edl1! Aai
VSignature: ✓
2. Member Name: ] on, �
Contact Phone: W7- 6Z-39 CC6. ) E-mail:
✓Signature:_
3
certify
Member Name: L-Y-i S
Contact Phone
Signature:
nature (Individual
E-mail: % t-15
ividuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated.
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.
lANancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc
SGPM �
r► Committee Appointment Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
lIINQ
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election General Election
District: 1r,-1 (e J Yl `4 / Proposition Name: "fit tt't� (�`��'(1({ 3
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (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 tillable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/
Committee Members
Chair Member Name:
Contact Phone: : t (! 1 w E-mail: -f
i
Signature: _ _ ✓
2. Member Name: ' lw N _-�Uk-eo
Contact Phone: 7 E-mail: +tlCy�!�' %MCL+ '
�r,
�c+
Signature:
3. Member Name: -Lr1 lul u - t-.;1.1 �-so n
Contact Phone: 3 0� �� q 3) 3 E-mail: t rt.S • #h l�W I
Signature: oaf`' ,\ - _
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.
1ANancyM15TRM Committee Appt Form.doc