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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 - Charter Review Prop 6 Lowering the Number of Signatures Req. for Citizen Init. Amend Charter Nov 3 2015 General Election-PassedYqA� fqt-- AU270090A PR�C�DURE 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 o steps 3-7. 3. If received over the counter, date stamps Ballot Measure Cover Sheet and the first page of V 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. �s7. 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. 4 Ensures front staff completed and applied initials for Steps 2-7 above. JV#Lils receipt if submitted by mail. -files copy of ballot measure receipt and original documents submitted in the file folder. �L1 2. Checks to see that explanatory statement word count was not exceeded. If it is, advises Auditor. (, U) ,� q�) 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.) 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 th measure, if applicable. Puts a copy of validation information in the file and marks the passage requirement on the fol er in red. ❑is usses 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; initials changes; makes same. markin_gs on set-to go -to_ PA agd-A­ssessor. 21. Returns file to Office Coordinator. Actions by Office Coordinator: If the ballot title is submitted by the County or a district: 22. Prepares transmittal letter to the Prosecuting Attorney to re ' w the ballot title (as defined in RCW 29A.36.071) and prepares the concise descriptigKif necessary, allowing 7 days for processing.. (See FRM #AU470090B — Prosecuti tty Memo) 23. Makes photocopy of resolution, validation fi es (if applicable), and ballot measure cover sheet. Attaches to Prosecuting Attorne ' transmittal letter. NOTE: If ballot title submitted b city, no review by the Prosecuting Attorney is necessary. 24. Prepares transmittal lett o Assessor to review if there are taxing or funding implications, allowing 7 days for pr essing to obtain their review. (See FRM #AU470090C — Assessor Ballot Title Letter - ends to Janice Judge) 25. Makes phot opy of resolution, validation figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover sheet. A ches to Assessor's transmittal letter 26. Obt s signature on transmittal letters and puts copies in folder. 27 and delivers packet to PA and Assessor. 8. Returns folder to file rack. Actions by Prosecuting Attor 29. Reviews text of ballo e and headings of ballot measure. �1 30. Discusses w submitter or counsel for submitter and recommends any changes, if any. 31. Send ansmittal letter to Auditor's Office with ballot title and headings to be used. (REF # 70090A — Response from Prosecuting Attorney) Actions by Assessor's e: 32. Reviews sub ' 'on. I:\Policies & P dureslElections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing -Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 2 J Amended 4/24/15 Filing Proposed Ballot Measures for Inclusion in Election (cont.) f 1,1�� Provides feedback to Auditor's office or sends return memo. (See REF #AU570090B — ' Sample Memo from Assessor) Actions by Offic oordinator: 34. Date S ps letter from PA and places in the folder. Date stamps return memo from A ssor and places in the folder. Gives to Auditor. Actions by Audi 36. Rev' s ballot title and headings and Assessor feedback. Gives to Office Coordinator to prepare letter to the submitter. Actions by Office Coordinator: _ 38. Prepares letter (FRM #AU470090D — Letter to <6ict re Approved Ballot Title) to the submitter and responsible official of the d' ct outlining the ballot title and heading to be used. 7 39. Obtains Auditor signature. 40. Scans signed letter an ends via email to District Contact Person 1 and District Contact Person 2 from the Hot Measure Cover Sheet. Sends copies of letter to other interested parties who h e requested to be included by regular mail, fax or email upon request. 41. Comp jers Certificate of Distribution (FRM #AU470090E —Certificate of Distribution), st 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. *Naming Convention for Ballot Measure: Line 1: Jurisdiction Line 2: Proposition # (yyyy-#) Line 3: Subject of Measure/Proposition Other additional lines as needed. I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 3 Amended 4/24/15 ` Official Canvass of the General Election for Whatcom County Home Rule Charter s Whatcom County, Washington �a� 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 6, proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, concerned reducing the number of signatures required to place citizen -proposed Charter amendments on the ballot. The proposition would amend Charter Section 8.22 to lower the number of signatures required for placement on the ballot of proposed Charter changes by citizen initiative from 20% to 15% of the number of votes cast in the County in the last 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, CWef Deputy Auditor Royce Bucl i- iam, Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Whatcom WHATCOM_20151103_E Charter Amendment Proposition No. 6 Under Votes: 4,592 Over Votes: 18 APPROVED REJECTED Charter Amendment Proposition No. 7 Under Votes: 4,271 Over Votes: 29 APPROVED REJECTED Charter Amendment Proposition No. 8 Under Votes: 7,487 Over Votes: 31 APPROVED REJECTED Charter Amendment Proposition No. 9 Under Votes: 3,550 Over Votes: 30 APPROVED REJECTED Charter, Amendment Proposition No. 10 Under Votes: 4,771 Over Votes: 18 APPROVED REJECTED COUNTY EXECUTIVE Under Votes: 7,810 Over Votes: 18 Jack Louws Joy Gilfilen Write-in COUNTY DIST 1 POS B Under Votes: 5,202 Over Votes: 7 Todd Donovan Bruce Ayers 34,643 61.29% 21,883 38.71% Total 56,526 39,430 69.38% 17.406 30.62% Total 56,836 24,869 46,38% 28,749 53.62% Total 53,618 31,096 54.03% 26,460 45.97% Total 57,556 29,584 52.50% 26,763 47.50% Total 56,347 37,319 70.01% 15,734 29.52% 255 0.48% Total 53,308 30,753 54.99% 25,043 44.78% Summary Report November 3, 2015 Page 3 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.uslauditor November 25, 2015 om Debbie Adelstein 3aP "< County Auditor Diana Bradrick �9'NI NG-to Chief Deputy Auditor Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council Whatcom County Council 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105 Bellingham, WA 98225 Dear Dana: 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@comhatcornma.us Elections@comhatcomma.us Auditor@comhatcornma.us We gladly accept 360-778-5100 360-778-5100 360-778-5102 360-778-5105 relay calls. 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. 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) Explanatory Statement: Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county that are required upon a petition to place an initiative for County Charter amendments upon the ballot is 20% of the votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would lower the number of signatures required to 15% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. J,&6b,t , )prWtfk--- i al Ctlw (Zrnuva► f-ly� Whatcom County Auditor Seeks Persons to Write Statement Opposing Proposed Charter Amendments for Local Voters' Pamphlet The County Auditor seeks applicants to write the voter pamphlet con statements and rebuttals for Propositions 4, 6, and 8 on the November General Election. For each ballot measure the Auditor will appoint a committee to write a statement arguing against the measure. Read on. The Charter Review Commission recommended all three Charter Propositions. Proposition 4 amends Charter Sections 5.40 and 5.60 pertaining to initiatives and referenda to provide greater consistency with state law regarding the wording of initiatives and referenda. This measure would increase the word limit for ballot questions from 20 to 40 words. Proposition 6 amends Charter Section 8.22 to reduce the number of signatures required to place citizen -proposed charter amendments on the ballot, from 20% to 15% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last gubernatorial election. Proposition 8 alters 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. When appointed, committees must submit their initial statements to the County Auditor by Monday, August 17. The rebuttal statements are due to the Auditor by Thursday, August 20. To volunteer for a committee please call or e-mail the County Auditor's Office by Thursday, August 13, at (360) 778-5102 or elections(�co.whatcom.wa.us. Please provide your name, which Proposition you are volunteering for, and your contact information, including phone number and e-mail address. If appointed, name and contact information will be shared with other committee members. CLERK OF THE COUNCIL Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C. COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Suite #105 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 676-6690 S WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL August 4, 2015 TO: Debbie Adelstein, Auditor FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair COUNCILMEMBERS Barbara Brenner Rud Browne Barry Buchanan Pete Kremen Ken Mann Satpal Sidhu Carl Weimer SUBJ: Voter Pamphlet Statements Against Ballot Measure Propositions 4, 6, and 8 The County Council received no volunteers to serve on the committees to write statements against three ballot measures proposed by the Charter Review Commission. Our efforts to recruit volunteers is documented below. Did you seek participants who were opposed to it on the commission? ■ Proposition 4: No commissioners were opposed to the ballot measure. • Propositions 6 and 8: All commissioners who voted against these propositions were asked to participate on the committee. They were asked twice during Commission meetings and also via email. None volunteered. Did you know of people who didn't support a position and ask them to participate in writing the opposition? • No citizens spoke to the Commission in opposition of propositions 4, 6, or 8. Did you post it on your website? • Yes. The press release (attached) was displayed on the County Council home webpage from July 14 through August 4, 2015. Did you advertise for it? • Yes. Two press releases were sent to the media and all subscribers to the County Council Office notification list. The first press release was sent July 14, 2015. The second was sent July 23, 2015 Did you put it on social media? » No. The Whatcom County Council Office does not use social media. Give us copies of what you did to substantiate it. • Press release dated July 14, 2015 • Press release dated July 23, 2015 C: Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council CLERK OF THE COUNCIL Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C. COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Suite #105 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 676-6690 yyA WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Whatcom County Council Office, 676-6690 COUNCILMEMBERS Barbara Brenner Rud Browne Barry Buchanan Pete Kremen Ken Mann Satpal Sidhu Carl Weimer COUNTY COUNCIL SEEKS APPLICANTS TO WRITE VOTER PAMPHLET STATEMENTS Council will appoint 2 or 3 citizens to Pro Statement and Con Statement Committees BELLINGHAM, Washington, July 14, 2015 — The County Council must appoint either 2 or 3 people to committees that will write the voter pamphlet pro or con statements and rebuttals for Charter amendment ballot measures on the November general election. For each ballot measure, the Council appoints a committee to write a statement arguing in favor of the measure and another committee to write a statement against. Council will appoint the committees at its regular evening meeting at 7 p.m. on July 21. Nine County ballot measures that would amend the Whatcom County Charter are scheduled for the 2015 general election. The Council will consider a 10th measure at its meeting on July 21. The Charter Review Commission proposed the first 8 ballot measures: Proposition 1 is about electing council members by district. Proposition 2 is limiting the power of the council to amend the charter. Proposition 3 is limiting the power of council to amend the charter's election provisions. Proposition 4 is increasing the word limit for ballot questions. Proposition 5 is lowering the threshold for initiative and referendum signatures. Proposition 6 is lowering the number of signatures required for citizens initiatives to amend the charter. Proposition 7 is term limits for the county executive and county council members. Proposition 8 is altering the composition of the districting commission. The County Council proposes a 9th proposition to create five council districts. If the Council approves, proposition 10 would require a supermajority of the charter review commission to propose charter amendments. When appointed, the pro and con committees must submit their initial statements to the County Auditor by Monday, August 17. The rebuttal statements are due to the Auditor by Thursday, August 20. To volunteer for a committee, please call or email the County Council Office by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 20 at 360-676-6690 or counciltc co whatcom.wa.us. Provide your name, which committee you are volunteering for, and your contact information, including phone number and email address. If appointed, name and contact information will be shared with other committee members. 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 PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Whatcom County Council Office, 676-6690 COUNCILMEMBERS Barbara Brenner Rud Browne Barry Buchanan Pete Kremen Ken Mann Satpal Sidhu Carl Weimer COUNTY COUNCIL SEEKS APPLICANTS TO WRITE VOTER PAMPHLET STATEMENTS Council will appoint citizens write statements against Propositions 4, 5, 6, and 8 BELLINGHAM, Washington, July 23, 2015 — The County Council seeks applicants to write the voter pamphlet con statements and rebuttals for Propositions 4, 5, 6, and 8 on the November general election. For each ballot measure, the Council appoints a 2- or 3-person committee to write a statement arguing against the measure. Council will appoint the committees at a special Committee of the Whole meeting on August 4, time to be determined. The Charter Review Commission recommended all four propositions. Proposition 4 amends Charter Sections 5.40 and 5.60 pertaining to initiatives and referenda to provide greater consistency with state law regarding the wording of initiatives and referenda. This measure would increase the word limit for ballot questions from 20 to 40 words. Proposition 5 lowers the number of signatures required to place initiatives and referenda 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. Proposition 6 amends Charter Section 8.22 to reduce the number of signatures required to place citizen -proposed Charter amendments on the ballot, from 20% to 15% of the number of votes cast in the County in the last gubernatorial election. Proposition 8 alters 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. When appointed, committees must submit their initial statements to the County Auditor by Monday, August 17. The rebuttal statements are due to the Auditor by Thursday, August 20. To volunteer for a committee, please call or email the County Council Office by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, August 3 at 360-676-6690 or council(&co.whatcom.Wa.us. Provide your name, which committee you are volunteering for, and your contact information, including phone number and email address. If appointed, name and contact information will be shared with other committee members. 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. 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 The public may propose amendments to the Charter by registering with the Auditor an initiative petition bearing the signatures of registered voters of the county equal in number to, but not less than, twenty (20) 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) Explanatory Statement: Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county that are required upon a petition to place an initiative for County Charter amendments upon the ballot is 20% of the votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would lower the number of signatures required to 15% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. ¢j ter,t 4 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 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, }went (_0(_0 fifteen (15) percent of the number of votes cast in the county in the last gubernatorial election. Signatures shall be registered not more than one hundred twenty (120) days following filing of the petition with the Auditor, who shall submit the amendments to the voters. The one hundred and twenty (120) day period shall begin upon receipt of official notification to petitioner(s) by the Prosecuting Attorney's Office either by certified mail or messenger. If the last day for collecting signatures falls on a weekend or legal holiday, then the one hundred and twenty (120) day period shall extend to the end of the next business day. (Amended by referendum 1986; Ord. 93-045; amended by referendum 1995; Ord. 2005-075 Exh. A) Explanatory Statement: Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county that are required upon a petition to place an initiative for County Charter amendments upon the ballot is 20% of the votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would lower the number of signatures required to 15% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. w -0 � 7a Whatcom County ���"' �oDebbie Adelstein Auditor's Office 3 A County Auditor Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 r 0 Election Division Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 gS�yINGt 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 /j `j Received From: 01Mxoyt C1 IKL Name of Presenter and Title Gur�� rZe�v UAIJ Name of Organization 311 rid ffve L >k 105 J3.d _W6M uVA T6V15 Address Phone U Lmail Ballot Measure Name: V-LLd (not resoluO number) ` C-V\ C, � e- The Auditor's Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above ballot measure for inclusion in the ZOIS oy. Cla1zhd Election. Deputy ditor Primary or General Elections ONLY- Local Voters' Pamphlet: If the ballot measure will be on the Primary or General Election ballot, Presenter acknowledges receipt of the memo packet regarding ballot measure explanatory statements, appointment of For and Against committees and forms, and committee statement deadlines and requirements for inclusion in the Local Voters' Pamphlet. Presenter's Signature bate I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.doc Rev. 04/24/15 �GaM eo ►� Ballot Measure Cover SheetRECE14 This cover sheet must accompany each ballot measure submitted to the rn tco County Auditor. AUG 0 4 Z015 Name of District. Whatcom County DEBBIE ADELSTEIN _ fflvn District Address: 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105, Belling am, 2 District Contact Person 1: Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council (Name and Title) Contact Person 1 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: dbrown@co.whatcom.wa.us District Contact Person 2: Jill Nixon, Administrative Clerk (Name and Title) Contact Person 2 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: jnixon@co.whatcom.wa.us a r s Attorney for District: Daniel Gibson Attorney Phone: 360-676-6784 Email: dgibson@co.whatcom.wa.us Has prafftorney prepared this ballot measure? it Yes J No Type of Election: County Charter Amendment (e.g., Levy, Bond, Levy Lid Lift, etc.) State the Pass/Fail Requirement for the Measure as Determined by District's Legal Counsel: A majority of the voters voting on the issue. (e.g., Simple Majority, 60%, Minimum Turnout, etc.) List Applicable Statutory References: Whatcom County Charter Section 8.20 (second paragraph) Attached the Resolution with original signatures - or - a certified copy of the original id Yes Resolution? Attached the Explanatory Statement for the Local Voters' Pamphlet? (now required for all W Yes elections) Also sent the Resolution and Explanatory Statement electronically to: Yes elections co.whatcom_wa.us ? Attached the "For" and "Against" Committee Appointment Forms? W Yes Fully completed this cover sheet? @ Yes This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's Website: www.whatcomcountv.uslauditor! 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 July 22, 2015 MEMORANDUM f)2iC','�EMBERS Brenner Rud Browne Barry Buchanan Pete Kremen Ken Mann Satpal Sidhu DEBBIE ADELSTEIN Carl Weimer WHATCOM COUNTY COUNGIItHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR RGpM CO - G �A A r� `iq�Nt ry��dt TO: County Auditor Debbie Adelstein FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair ? �� SUB]: Council Action at the July 21, 2015 meeting. RECEIVE AUG 0 4 2015 The Council, at its July 21, 2015 meeting, took action as shown on the portion of minutes printed below: OTHER ITEMS 9. RECEIPT AND FORWARDING OF WHATCOM COUNTY CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE WHATCOM COUNTY VOTERS (AB2015-219) Browne moved to forward the amendments to the Auditor to be included on the November general election ballot. The motion was seconded The motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Brenner, Kremen, Sidhu, Browne, Buchanan, and Weimer (6) Nays: None (0) Absent: Mann (1) The Charter Review Commission, in cooperation with Chief Civil Deputy Prosecutor Daniel Gibson, approved ballot titles for the amendments. Please see the attached information for the specific list of Charter Review Commission amendments. 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 W 4TCOM Couffff COUNCIL RWA=_OM COMP, WAS1ff1 TGTOIV on" cid Cer 11-11 Opy DarAa_BrowA the Cowsra 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 Gountywode by Council District The registered voters of 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 revious charter amendment was agproved by a 2 3 majority of the voters, then no ordinance propprin to the voters further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affi rma thte-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\Ballot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 3 LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER'S ELECTION PROVISIONS The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments. This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from proposing any Charter amendment to Charter Sections 2.12 or 2.13, which pertain to the method of nominating and electing County Council members, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by a 7-0 vote. Should this proposal be: APPROVED: REJECTED: Text Amendment: Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council. The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes shall be required to enact such an ordinance. No ordinance _proposing amendment of any ❑royision of Sections 2.12 or 2.13 of this Charter shall be adopted by the Council except by a 7-0 affirmative vote. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the veto power of the County Executive. The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 4 WORD LIMIT FOR BALLOT QUESTIONS The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter to provide greater consistency with state law regarding the wording of initiatives and referenda. This measure would amend Charter Sections 5.40 and 5.60 pertaining to initiatives and referenda and increase the word limit for ballot questions from 20 to 40 words. Should this proposal be: APPROVED REJECTED `Text Amendment: Section 5.40 Initiative - Procedures. H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amen dmentsFINALFormatDGedits.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 Fend , not te ex-ceed•- ds, wh;L th"u pese-ef-the-measufFe the Ballot title which shall consist of: a a statement of the subject of the measure; b a concise description of the measure: and (C) a question: "Shall this be enacted into law?" The statement of the subject of the measure must be p1oposed as a positive statement be sufficiently broad to reflect the subject, and be s_ufficiend recise to q ive notice of the measure's subject matter and not exceed ten words. The concise descrl bon must contain no more than thirty words be a true and impartial description of the measure's essential contents clearly identify the proposition to be voted on and not to the extent reasonably -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 st�Eer e ; p� estier�, ex-pFess and d- paftial statepient-oVthe-ff aSU!Fe beiflg-fe€er-red the ballot title which shall consist of: a a statement of the subject of the measure: b) a concise description of the measure;_ and (c) a_ question: "Shall this be enacted into law?" The statement of the subject of the measure must be proposed as a asitive statement be sufficienti broad to reflect the subject and be sufficiently precise to give notice of the measure's subject 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 proposition to be voted on, and not, -to the extent reasonably 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... H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot 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 ige} less than 15 t ast in the C „lle4ien anot 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 the vote east4n-t ­" °- "-'— gr-4--1 e1eet en a not less than 8% of the vote cast it the cou n ty 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 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 (20) 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 -(.;oundlmembers shall serve no more than three consecutive full terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive unless they are at least four years apark. The limit in terms shall be applied prospectively one beginning with the elections in 2017 and 2019. Section 3.21 Election and Term of Office. The County Executive shall be nominated and elected by the voters of the county, and the term of office shall be four years and until the successor is elected and qualified. The County Executive shall serve no more than three consecutive full terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive uni�ss - are at least four Years apart. The limit in terms shall be applied prospectively only, beginning with the election in 2019. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION H:\JIII\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot 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 €iV'e- mefnbe-F Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint fetrF peFse1+5. to the committee, twe-one representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 15°I of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial rims or oresidential election. Parties with a candidate receiving at least 330I6 of the vote in either of those elections will Ile provided a second reipresentative on the Districting Committee. If the nu r of WWI representatives is even the €eur te-appeit �pointees will select afifth an additional member who shall be the Chair. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote for and apgoint 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\13allot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx 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 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 () 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) Explanatory Statement: Presently the number of signatures of registered voters in the county that are required upon a petition to place an initiative for County Charter amendments upon the ballot is 20% of the votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would lower the number of signatures required to 15% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last regular gubernatorial election. Committee Appointment Form Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet 9�NI NQstl This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST for the: Primary Election � General Election District: �10 t C_k) tvi \�V Proposition Name: av�,Ae4,__41-C AC( �,57 (e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (e.g., General bbligation Bonds - $2 995,000) 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 ii' Member Name: r� Lki) j) (0.Y1() Contact Phone: ���'� I dot 4 E-mail: kwafa0 ti ✓Signature: at for Wf'- 2. Member Name: aI)dnayrx� ... Contact Phone: tDq_7 E-mail: do novae) Id , Z M.3t, - v,Signature: 3. Member Name: _ )0✓1 qlA+61I6C Contact Phone: at-,,Ot � w 1 gE-mail: nyl M u4U ►1 ew�, WWI I. clorl-I Signature: 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. lANancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc 3tp� rn cow � /\lV i v Committee Apivointment Form "s�.rNGs�a Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet 1 This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST for the: Primary Election )(General Election District: 1.0 10 Proposition Name. G1 [` A- (e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27, 95,000) 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. aii-Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature: 2. Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature 3. Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature: E-mail: E-mail: E-mail: I heregby certify the above named individuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated. Authorized Signature (Individual with authority to sign for the District) Date The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and 42.17. 1ANancy\2015TRM Committee Appt Form.doc