HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 - Charter Review Prop 5 Lowering Threshold for Initiative & Referendum Signatures Nov 3 2015 General Election-Passed9
Y
AU270090A PROEDUREq
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:
UUUU • the Ballot Measure Cover Sheet (FIRM #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 FIRM #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:
4YCreates ballot measure file folder and staples this procedure to front of folder to be used as
a checklist.
UV9. Ensures front staff completed and applied initials for Steps 2-7 above.
Mails receipt if submitted by mail.
Files copy of ballot measure receipt and original documents submitted in the file folder.
2 Checks to see that explanatory statement word count was not exceeded. If it is, advises
--Auditor. .0 _
I
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.)
(k. Gives file to Auditor or designee.
Actions by Auditor or designee:
�A
N�A
�JA
14. If the word count of the explanatory statement is exceeded, contacts submitter to remedy.
1 . 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.
Puts a copy of validation information in the file and marks the passage requirement on the
folcfer in red.
_17'Disc sses with submitter requested order if more than one ballot title is to be submitted.
Assigns 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; ilhitials changes; makes -same markings on --
set -to -go -to PA and-ssessor_
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 th of title (as defined in
RCW 29A.36.071) and prepares the concise description, if n ssary, allowing 7 days for
processing.. (See FRM #AU470090B — Prosecuting At emo}
23. Makes photocopy of resolution, validation figure applicable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. Attaches to Prosecuting Attorney's smittal letter.
NOTE: If ballot title submitted by , no review by the Prosecuting Attorney is
necessary.
24. Prepares transmittal letter Assessor to review if there are taxing or funding implications,
allowing 7 days for pro sing to obtain their review. (See FRM #AU470090C — Assessor
Ballot Title Letter - nds to Janice Judge)
25. Makes photopy of resolution, validation figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover
sheet. Attaches to Assessor's transmittal letter
26. Obtajds signature on transmittal letters and puts copies in folder.
27. Jand delivers packet to PA and Assessor.
Returns folder to file rack.
Actions by Prosecuting Attorney:y, 29. Reviews text of ballot titleeadings of ballot measure.
30. Discusses with -,L4bfiitter or counsel for submitter and recommends any changes, if any
31. Sends smittal letter to Auditor's Office with ballot title and headings to be used. (REF
70090A — Response from Prosecuting Attorney)
Actions by Assessor' ffice:
32. Reviews sub sion.
I:\Policies & P eedures\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.)
Provides feedback to Auditor's office or sends return memo. (See REF #AU570090B —
�1 �i Sample Memo from Assessor)
Actions by Office Coordi r:
34. Date Stamps er from PA and places in the folder. Date stamps return memo from
Asses nd places in the folder.
3 fves to Auditor.
Actions by Audito�itleand
�I A 36. Reviews headings and Assessor feedback.
37. ' s�to Office Coordinator to prepare letter to thes bmitter.
Actions by Office Coordinator:
38. Prepares letter (FRM #AU4700 — Letter to District re Approved Ballot Title) to the
submitter and responsible o ' ial of the district outlining the ballot title and heading to be
used.
39. Obtains Auditor si ature.
40. Scans signe tter and sends via email to District Contact Person 1 and District Contact
I Person 2 f m the Ballot Measure Cover Sheet. Sends copies of letter to other interested
parties o have requested to be included by regular mail, fax or email upon request.
41. C pletes Certificate of Distribution (FRM #AU470090E — Certificate of Distribution),
aples to inside file folder, and prints out email transmittal.
2. 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.
'`Naming Convention for Ballot Measure:
Line 1: Jurisdiction
Line 2: Proposition # (yyyy-#)
Line 3: Subject of Measure/Proposition
Other additional lines as needed.
L\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 3
Amended 4/24/15
�GOM as
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 5, proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, concerned lowering
the number of signatures required to place initiatives and referenda on the ballot. The proposition
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.
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, ClWf Deputy Auditor
r
Royce
Barry� GcT� nah, Counci
puty Prosecuting Attorney
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
Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council
Whatcom County Council
311 Grand Ave., Suite 105
Bellingham, WA 98225
Dear Dana:
�GpM CO
P Gq,
�9sNrNG�0
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@comhatcornma.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.
CAL;�l
io�
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 Initiative - Procedures.
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of
the registered voters in the county equal in number to ee le5s than " of the veto cast on
the C-unty on the last general eleetion oF not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in
the last regular gubernatorial election...."
Section 5.60 Referendum - Procedures.
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of
registered voters in the county equal in number to Ftet- less than of the vate eas" _n t
eeu-ftt-y-i-n4he !ate-ner-a4-e1--e-tmen a not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in the
last regular gubernatorial election...."
Explanatory Statement:
Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county needed on a petition
to place an initiative proposal or referendum on a matter of County law upon the ballot is
15% of the vote cast in the county in the last regular general election. This proposed
amendment, if adopted, would change the number of signatures required to 8% of the vote
cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election.
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 Initiative - Procedures.
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of
the registered voters in the county equal in number to not 'err than ' SOA of the East in
the `flty 0n ti' last gene a eleetien-a not less than 8% of the vote cast in the count in
the last -regular ciubernatorial election...."
Section 5.60 Referendum - Procedures.
"... The petitioner then has one hundred twenty (120) days to collect the signatures of
registered voters in the county equal in number to not le s 5% of the Yete east �R 1ie
county in the last al eleetjOR or not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in the
fast regular gubernatorial election...."
Explanatory Statement:
Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county needed on a petition
to place an initiative proposal or referendum on a matter of County law upon the ballot is
15% of the vote cast in the county in the last regular general election. This proposed
amendment, if adopted, would change the number of signatures required to 8% of the vote
cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election.
Nancz 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. 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 fief-less-tl}ar�-���'/o of lt3e vote eases+r� tyre
eeunty iR4he-4ast- ener-al elee4er-ef not less than 8% of the vote cast 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^t less than 15% of the vet east in
Eeunty ki-l:he4a-s"etfer-al--el-ec-tion e not less than 86/b of the vote cast in the county in the
last regular gubernatorial election...."
Explanatory Statement:
Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county needed on a petition
to place an initiative proposal or referendum on a matter of County law upon the ballot is
15% of the vote cast in the county in the last regular general election. This proposed
amendment, if adopted, would change the number of signatures required to 8% of the vote
cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election.
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 veto east hn }'l^
eounty in the last geneFal eleetien a not less than 811/6 of the vote cast 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 net iess than 15% of the vote east ;R the
ceunty in the last general eleetien not less than 8% of the vote cast in the county in the
last regular gubernatorial election...."
Explanatory Statement:
Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county needed on a petition
to place an initiative proposal or referendum on a matter of County law upon the ballot is
15% of the vote cast in the county in the last regular general election. This proposed
amendment, if adopted, would change the number of signatures required to 8% of the vote
cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election.
� v1
V
Whatcom County pM co` Debbie Adelstein
Auditor's Office 3P ' y< County Auditor
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 O r Election Division
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 9SMING�
Phone: (360) 676-6742
Fax: (360)738-4556
Email: elections@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us./auditor
Ballot Measure Receipt
Date Received:(
Received From: / U Ki MtIL
Name of Presenter and Title
«_ r,J
Name of Organization
311 araVj ffv49 I,3be 105 /k/twkAm uVA ?6SZ5
Address
tomgo InwrN►8u). wlta wa. us
Phone U Email
Ballot Measure Name:
(not resolution nu
-avx Ctul� L+II )C�11 C
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. ^�
-7q \ i
Presenters Signature Date
I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.doc Rev. 04/24/15
i�a", Co- RECEIVEfE
g '` Ballot Measure Cover Sheet
� a This cover sheet must accompany each ballot measure subAWedQoAhiWUhatcom
County Auditor.
DEBBIE ADEL.STEIN
Name of District: Whatcom County ,NATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
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.whateom.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
Attorney for District: Daniel Gibson
Attorney Phone: 360-676-6784 _Email: dgibson@co.whatcom.wa.us
Has your atto ney prepared this ballot measure? A Yes 0 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)
W
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:
electionsa-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
r Yes
W Yes
W Yes
11 Yes
i 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.
itCommittee Appointment Farm
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election 7 General Election
District: �7C [ L �+C�'1`1�( Proposition Name AJ
(e-g- mungham Schod District 501) 1 (e.g- General Oblollon Bonds - 527.995.000)
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 avafMW# In a WOW* form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/
Committee Members
1, WAW Member Name: a !j Owl 0
ContadAhone: 7^ 5 E-mail'' w)[]
Signatures
Z Member Name: ,dam"' an Lya N
Contact Phone:
Signature:
0 Member Name: Hu"�r—wPc
Contact Phone: dj— E-mail;_nry1U4d}'j' i c "d cow,
Signature:
I hereby certify the above name�indivl#Ws have been appointed and have consented to serve as indlcaterl.
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.
l:kNancyVo151FRM Committee Appt Form.doc
RECEIVEr
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL S
COUNCII.MEMBERS
Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C. Barbara Brenner
Browne
COUNTY COURTHOUSE AUG 0 4 2015 Barry Buchanan
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 4105 Pete Kremen
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 Ken Mann
(360) 676-6690 DEBBIE ADELSTEINSatpal Sidhu
WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR Carl Weimer
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
July 22, 2015
MEMORANDUM
TO: County Auditor Debbie Adelstein
FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair �?
SUB]: 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(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.
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
H7MTCON COM' COUNCIL
RWATC0M COS N7Y, WASIHNGTON
r CyficW cerdfled 09Py
Czun l
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 Geuntywide by Council District
The registered voters of Whateem Geuflty 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 exce t that if a revious barter am n ment
was a raved b a 2 3 maiorit of the voters hen no ar in nce omposing to the voters
further amendment of that matter shall be adopted exce t by a 7-0 affirmative v f 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\Ch arter Review Commission 2U15\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 pro❑osino amendment of any
orovision 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.
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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 eanese-statement, posed as a peS4
exeee
the PLIFpes a the __ 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 question: "Shall
this be enacted into law?" The statement of the subject of the measure must be proposed
as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to reflect the subject —and be sufFicientl
precise to give notice of the measure's subject matter, and not exceed ten words. The
concise descri tlon must contain no more than thirty words be a true and impartial
descri tion of the measure's essential contents clearly identify the orol2osition to be voted
on and not to the extent reasonabtv possible,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-eeFieise
staternel�F7fl5e aS 2J EjtFeS la, , not to eJEeeed—twef3ty(101 'ate, Ticl� 51
give a a44a4-stater er t of the nge ure beifl§-mod the ballot title which
shall consist of: a a statement of the subject of the measure;_(_bj a concise description of
the measure,• and c aquestion: "Shall this-bg enacted into law?" The statement of the
subject of the measure must be proposed as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to
reflect the -subject, and be sufficiently recise to ive notice of the measure's sub sect
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 clear)
identify the 2roposition to be voted on and not, to the extent reasonablY DoSSible,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...
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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 ..o lessthan ' of the ye ` `awe
Esunty On t#e-Fast-geneica' electien ef not less than 8% of the vote cast 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_ ss than 15% of }`'1vote cast `n
county .. e last g ectieR-af 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 (29) 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
term in -office, . Terms are considered consecutive unless they are at legit_ four years apart.
The limit Aerms shall be applied prospectively only, beginningLeginning with the elections in 20%7
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
cmsidere4 conse_cutiynle�s they, are at l sat four ears a art. The limit in terms shall be
applied Drospectively only, beginning with the election n 2019.
Ballot Title:
Proposition No. 8
ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION
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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-
Fner<,ber Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint few
persens to the committee, twe ne representative from each major political party, defined
as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 1511/o of the vote in Whatcom Count
in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election. Parties with a candidate
receiving at ieast 33% of the vote in either of those elections will b�rovided _asecond
representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even
the feur te appeint appointees will select a fifth an additional member who shall be the
Chairman. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote for and appoint a Cher
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.
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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 rcet-4ess than ' S% of }h. v e East on the
eeun ,n the last general-^,^goof-eF not less than 8% of the vote cast 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 not less than 15% of }hR1Lote east iR '"^
(a- - ity in the last general el ei-a not less than 811fo of the vote cast in the county in the
last regular gubernatorial election...."
Explanatory Statement:
Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county needed on a petition
to place an initiative proposal or referendum on a matter of County law upon the ballot is
15% of the vote cast in the county in the last regular general election. This proposed
amendment, if adopted, would change the number of signatures required to 8% of the vote
cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election.
SGOM CpG "^�
Committee Appointment Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Ik Committee FOR
for the: Primary Election General Election
Committee AGAINST
District: h lip C
i . .., c A v Proposition Namedd a (41f
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) (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
06alr Member Name: �ar1__WD-0)6Qy)0
Contact Phone: t00 — ,1-7-- as 05 - IE-mail: U. ���❑ �r'� C
a
Vl§ignature:
2. Member Name: l c�jj an avo, V1
Contact Phone: U — Lv(4 ^ M5 b E-mail: doo o van I.G 6 "n
C�
,%Signature:
3. Member Name: �2 � Huiz V 1 lef
Contact Phone: x�— IG��'� I E-mail: nrnCJCkwer
Signature:
I here certi the ab ed 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:\Nancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc
i o<.-: Jill Nixon-o '?
Ballot measure statement form -CORRECTED
;'c lia: August 10, 2015 at 11:51 AM
i" Jill Nixon
All,
My apologies, last week I sent out the incorrect form for you to fill out for your ballot measure
statements to submit to the Auditor's Office. Attached is the correct form (i promise!). The
form is also on the Auditor's website.
I'm sorry for any confusion this has caused.
Jill Nixon
Administrative Clerk
Whatcom County Council Office
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-676-6690
r1 OTIC�—: All e mails and attachments seat to and fro Whatcom County are pubjlc racords and may be,
subjee.1 to disclosure pursuard to the Pablic Records Act (RCW 42. 6)
- Committee Statement Form
Whatcom County Local voters' Pamphlet
This is the statement of the: Cormmttee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: I I I _. Primary Election X General Election Y-)e /7t4L•D ��' 2
Lo (t)EX-1 N6 1')
PROPos1rlo�(S i�f�i�-rlu�
D•stricr Proposition t4arne: 5%
_— 31 �ml.hooiOisiricicnli (e.L Genera?C= jaaeng- •,;-S27_«=r-fC0i
This forgo is available in a filla.ble form on the Auditor's website:
www. wha tcomcortnty. us/auditorl
This form must be filled out in its entirely and returned with the comrn-ttee statement.
�2y��✓
�Faeniber Name, /� // /
Contact Phone. [a%! '376- E-mail: hr yav1 i- i'�L7in f c1 ��C_ , r_01V2
-1? ' '
Commiree members' names and the ;:o€ fnatee name (i'f appficabfei ,will be pub?ished in the Local
Votefs- Pamphlet in con unction with the ForsAgainst statements
The Following will be Published:
Statemem Prepared by
Commixee name, if apal:able
Iq
Committee Member Name
- -- -- Committee Member Name
Commit'" Member Name
The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and
RCW 42,17,
Committee Appointment Form
Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election V, General Election
District: Proposition Name:
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) (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 flllable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditoN
Committee Members
_y
� t
19f4it Member Name: it ),rk r ,, M
3 A-e-79 - B37(v .
Contact Phone: 34,o/319 — k3ck) E-mail: l a,�1 , if
h � M61 I . Conte
S+grffifll'e: ; �Ij
a
2. Member Name: v{-
Contact Phone: 671 E-mail: % 'rC kw
\Signature: LP,' I �:_ •7�
I
41 `
3. Member Name: , �VAy_
Contact Phone: E-mail:y" QSrry1U.nej rm1, CGS
Signature:
I hereby certify -the above roamed 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.
Mancy=ISFRM Committee Appt Form.doc
�Gvrn coo
Committee Appointment Form
,•►f„6i Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet
This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST
for the: Primary Election General Election
District:
Proposition Name:
(e.g., Bellingham School District 501) '
(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. �Otggit Member Name: Ic (L'L III
3WlL(g3 - 83��
Contact Phone: 4,o ,S ice! %340 E-mail: ar�� (Yon N- 6—)
Sigrfauure: Z (�
V,
2. Member Name- - r �-
Contact Phone: l E-mail: Z 1] &a /y2 o
\Signature:
3. Member Name: kW)(A �
Contact Phone: ao_ U-0 —9 (l E-mail:►M G f �I(r�zC��6h @ �! � "
Signature:
I hereby erti a above a�ned 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: Nancy\2015TRM Committee Appt Form.doc