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Home My WebLink About2015 - Charter Review Prop 8 Altering Composition of Districting Commission Nov 3 2015 General Election-FailedAU270090A ��0 8 VOL PROCEDURE Filing a Proposed Ballot Measure for Inclusion in Election (AUDITOR'S OFFICE — Elections) This procedure applies to Auditor's Staff, the Prosecuting Attorney, the Assessor's Office, and representatives of the cities and districts submitting A proposed ballot measure. Actions by Cities and Representative of Districts: 1. Submits proposed ballot measure (considered ballot title) together with an explanatory statement prepared by legal counsel to Auditor's Office. Must be submitted at least 46 days prior to the election date for a special election, no later than the Friday immediately before the first day of regular candidate filing for the primary election, or no later than the day of the primary for a general election. Actions by Election Clerk: 2. If received by mail or courier (e.g., Fourth Corner Network), date stamps Ballot Measure Cover Sheet and the first page of the resolution. Gives to Office Coordinator to complete steps 3-7. 3. If received over the counter, date stamps Ballot Measure Cover Sheet and the first page of the resolution. 4. Checks that: • the Ballot Measure Cover Sheet (FRM #AU270090F) is attached and complete, • the resolution contains original signatures by a majority of commissioners or other legislative body or is a certified copy by the clerk, • the date of the election is stated in the resolution, and ■ the explanatory statement is included if for a primary or general election. 4A. If packet not complete, returns packet to submitter to obtain missing information. Process stops here. 5. Prepares Ballot Measure Receipt (See FRM #AU470090A). Makes a copy for file and gives original to filer. (Note: Fill in ballot measure name only — no references to resolution number.) 6. If for primary or general election, provides voter pamphlet information packet to submitter. 7. Gives all materials to Office Coordinator. Actions by Office Coordinator: 8. Creates ballot measure file folder and staples this procedure to front of folder to be used as a checklist. Ensures front staff completed and applied initials for Steps 2-7 above. ails receipt if submitted by mail. Q�p1. Files copy of ballot measure receipt and original documents submitted in the file folder. Checks to see that explanatory statement word count was not exceeded. If it is, advises Auditor. �V 4).e- Y I lW I:\Policies & 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.) 41T Gives file to Auditor or designee. Actions by Auditor or designee: 14. If the word count of the explanatory statement is exce d, contacts submitter to remedy. 15. Reviews validation requirements based . ormation submitted or by consulting with submitter, what the passage requ ents are, and under which RCW they are submitting the measure, if applicable. 16. Puts a copy of validgrion information in the file and marks the passage requirement on the folder in red. 17. Disc ses 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 -markings -on- set to go to PP anzl A-ssessoY- 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 Attorne o review the ballot title (as defined in RCW 29A.36.071) and prepares the concise de ption, if necessary, allowing 7 days for processing.. (See FRM #AU47009013 - Pro uting Atty Memo) 23. Makes photocopy of resolution, valida 6 figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover sheet. Attaches to Prosecuting A ney's transmittal letter. NOTE: If ballot title submi by a city, no review by the Prosecuting Attorney is necessary. 24. Prepares transmitta tter to Assessor to review if there are taxing or funding implications, allowing 7 days ! processing to obtain their review. (See FRM #AU470090C - Assessor Ballot Title L r - sends to Janice Judge) 25. Makes p tocopy of resolution, validation figures (if applicable), and ballot measure cover shee Attaches to Assessor's transmittal letter. 26. 96tains signature on transmittal letters and puts copies in folder. Hand delivers packet to PA and Assessor. 28. Returns folder to file rack. Actions by Prosecuting Attorn 29. Reviews text of ballot ti and headings of ballot measure. 30. Discusse�witmitter or counsel for submitter and recommends any changes, if any 31. Sends trtter to Auditor's Office with ballot title and headings to be used. (REF #AU ❑90A - Response from Prosecuting Attorney) Actions by Assessor' ice: 32. Reviews sub sion. hPolicies & P cedures\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.) ' r Provides feedback to Auditor's office or sends return memo. (See REF #AU570090B — z2l�" J�J Sample Memo from Assessor) Actions by Office Coor or: 34. Date Stam er from PA and places in the folder. Date stamps return memo from Assess and places in the folder. 35. ' es to Auditor. Actions by A=�itle 36. Reviewsd headings and Assessor feedback. 37. G' s to Office Coordinator to prepare letter to the submitter. Actions by Office Coordinator: 38. Prepares letter (FRM #AU470090D — Letter Istrict re Approved Ballot Title) to the submitter and responsible official of the i rict outlining the ballot title and heading to be used. 39. Obtains Auditor signature. 40. Scans signed letter d sends via email to District Contact Person 1 and District Contact Person 2 from t allot Measure Cover Sheet. Sends copies of letter tp other interested parties who ve requested to be included by regular mail, fax or email upon request. 41. Com tes Certificate of Distribution (FRM #AU470090E — Certificate of Distribution), s les to inside file folder, and prints out email transmittal. Places in file. 43. Gives file to Election Coordinator. Actions by Election Coordinator: 44. Enters ballot measure, explanatory statement, Committee For & Committee Against statements, and rebuttals in ballot measure template and in WEI. 45. Sets up ballot measure in EIMS. 46. Gives ballot title to ballot preparer for inclusion on ballot (unless court appeal is made of ballot title) 46A. If court appeal, ballot preparer waits for court resolution (may design a placeholder in the meantime). 47. Submits court ordered title to ballot preparer prior to preparation deadline. *Namina Convention for Ballot Measure: Line 1: Jurisdiction Line 2: Proposition # (yyyy-#) Line 3: Subject of Measure/Proposition Other additional lines as needed. hPolicies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\PRO Filing proposed ballot meas.docx Page 3 Amended 4/24/15 Official Canvass of the General Election for Whatcom County Home Rule Charter �o� Whatcom County, Washington 1NG'L 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 8, proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, concerned altering the requirements for composition of the Districting Commission. The proposition 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. Based on the criteria for passage which was supplied by the district, the measure Failed. WITNESS our hand and seal this 24th day of November 2015. Whatcom County Canvassing Board Diana Bradrick, Chit/ Deputy Auditor l � r Royce Buckin /r Ga ; Civil3euty Prosecuting Attorney nan, dncil Member, County Degislative Authority 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.us/auditor November 25, 2015 (G°M co �r �93HING-(0 Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council Whatcom County Council 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105 Bellingham, WA 98225 Dear Dana: Debbie Adelstein County Auditor Diana Bradrick Chief Deputy Auditor Enclosed are copies of the certifications from the November 3, 2015 General Election pertaining to Propositions 1 - 8 proposed by the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, and Propositions 9 and 10 proposed by the Whatcom County Council. For the Official Election Results and for the Precinct by Precinct Abstract, please refer to our website at www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give me a call at 778-5130. Sincerely, Diana Bradrick Chief Deputy Auditor Enclosure Licensing Recording Elections Administration Licensing@comhatcomma.us Recording@comhatcomma.us Elections@co.whatcomma.us Auditor@comhatcomma.us We gladly accept 360-778-5100 360-778-5100 360-778-5102 360-778-5105 relay calls. td(. 03 26►� bctobj6 cApprove-6L calcm rtMDVCAI +ronll-- vied / rej etf eck Ballot Title: Proposition No. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION 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 five Fnember Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint to the committee, tone representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary orpresidential election. Parties with a candidate receiving at least 330Ia of the vote in either of those _elections will be provided_a second representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even, the feu'F to appe4i! t appointees will select awl} an additional member who shall be the Chair. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote for and appoint a Chair internaliv. 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. Explanatory Statement: Presently the County's redistricting committee is comprised of two persons each from the two major political parties, plus a fifth person chosen by those four. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would provide for one person from each political party with a candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election, with a second person from each party with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in Whatcom County in either of those elections. If the number so chosen is even, those persons shall select an additional member. 9 Ballot Title: Proposition No. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION 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 five - n,eFnber Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint fetrr persons to the committee, twe one representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election. Parties with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even, the feuF te app anoointees will select a-€i€th an additional member who shall be the Chair. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote for and appoint 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. Explanatory Statement: Presently the County's redistricting committee is comprised of two persons each from the two major political parties, plus a fifth person chosen by those four. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would provide for one person from each political party with a candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election, with a second person from each party with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in Whatcom County in either of those elections. If the number so chosen is even, those persons shall select an additional member. 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. 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 electionseco.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 WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL August 4, 2015 TO: Debbie Adelstein, Auditor FROM: Carl Weimer, Council Chair a COUNCILMEMBERS Barbara Brenner Rud Browne Barry Buchanan Pete Kremen Ken Mann Satpal Sidhu Carl Weimer SUB]: 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 G 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 counci](a7co.vvhatcom.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 A 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 coun61 co.vvhatcom.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. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION 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 €ive- ,mengbeT Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint fear peFSeRS to the committee, tw e one representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election. Parties with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even, the fetrf to app 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 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. Explanatory Statement: Presently the County's redistricting committee is comprised of two persons each from the two major political parties, plus a fifth person chosen by those four. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would provide for one person from each political party with a candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election, with a second person from each party with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in Whatcom County in either of those elections. If the number so chosen is even, those persons shall select an additional member. wyyvt� tj�*� �7401 lrt� � u,tiJ Whatcom County "r-0 Cp` Debbie Adelstein Auditor's Office P; '� County Auditor Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 r Election Division Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 9Sh�NG�p Phone: (360) 676-6742 Fax: (360) 738-4556 Email: elections@co.whatcom.wa.us Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us./auditor Ballot Measure Receipt Date Received: _ �y I/ s Received From: /Vt If1 1 Cl tlL Name of Presenter and Title Name of Organization 311 rated flye > SOS �r�al�r� VU,� ��ZZ� Address '�a''�11 (* o � d Vv . �16t4L1. V v A, V J Phone U Email Ballot Measure Name:I t,;/ U� �i 1� o1 O, C�1 v�rtu►^IS1t��1 (not resoluti number) The Auditor's Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above ballot measure for inclusion in the COLS W oV. G.9Ajtr4 Election. 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 Date 1:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\04_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.doc Rev. 04/24/15 AGO. cQ4 �sklkGS Ballot Measure Cover Sheet RECEI�WD This cover sheet must accompany each ballot measure submittOM tibe#Vj"om County Auditor. ®EERIE ADELSTEIN Name of District: WhatCOm COUnty WDATCOM COUNTY win District Address: 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225 District Contact Person 1: Dana Brown -Davis, Clerk of the Council (Name and Title) Contact Person 1 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: dbrown@Co.whatcom.wa.us District Contact Person 2: ,Jill Nixon, Administrative Clerk (Name and Title) Contact Person 2 Phone: 360-676-6690 Email: Jnixon@co.whatcom.wa.us LAttorney Information Attorney for District: Daniel Gibson Attorney Phone: 360-676-6784 Email: dgibson@co.whatcom.wa.us Has vour attorney prepared this ballot measure? W Yes ❑ No Type of Election County Charter Amendment (e.g., Levy, Bond, Levy Lid Lift, etc.) State the Pass/Fail Requirement for the Measure as Determined by District's Legal Counsel: A majority of the voters voting on the issue. (e.g., Simple Majority, 60%, Minimum Turnout, etc.) List Applicable Statutory References: Whatcom County Charter Section 8.20 (second paragraph) Have you. Attached the Resolution with original signatures - or - a certified copy of the original A Yes Resolution? Attached the Explanatory Statement for the Local Voters' Pamphlet? (now required for all A Yes elections) Also sent the Resolution and Explanatory Statement electronically to: W Yes elections co.whatcom.wa.us ? Attached the "For" and "Against" Committee Appointment Forms? 19 Yes Fully completed this cover sheet? 0 Yes This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's Website: www. whatcorncounly.us/auditorl 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. C E I V E l CLERK OF THE COUNCIL {G�M. CdG UNCILMEMBERS Dana Brown -Davis, C.M.C. tP L Barbara Brenner Browne COUNTY COURTHOUSE 311 Grand Avenue, Suite #105 ALA j,; • y B A U G 0 4 2015 Barry Buchanan Pete emen Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 (360) 676-6690 '^� hq Ken rMann apt' ShiNG Satpal Sidhu DEBBIE ADELSTEIN Carl Weimer COilNT1'AUpIT( WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCILMDM 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. 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 RH4TCOM COUP COUNCIL ID`i A L04Yf' COUP W.49-Is`IGTON i11;-' ! CETrXlzd =OPY Ballot Title: Proposition No. 1 METHOD OF ELECTING COUNCIL MEMBERS The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter concerning the method of electing County Council members. This measure would amend Charter Section 2.13 to provide for election of County Council members by voters only from within the council district from which the candidate was nominated, except for the at -large position which would continue to be selected by voters from the entire county. Should this proposal be: APPROVED REJECTED Text Amendment: Section 2.13 Election amide by Council District The registered voters of Whateem Go each Council District shall vote upon each council member position to be filled from their district at the November general election. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes for each position shall be elected. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 2 LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments. This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from proposing Charter amendments to previous Charter amendments that have been approved by a 2/3 majority of voters, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by a 7-0 vote. This proposal should be: APPROVED: REJECTED: Text Amendment: Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council. The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes shall be required to enact such an ordinance, except that if a previous charter amendment was approved by a 2_13 majority of the voters, then no ordinance prop¢51ng to the voters Further amendment of that matter shall be adopted except by a 7-0 affirmative vote of the Council. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the veto power of the County Executive. H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot Titles and amend mentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 3 LIMITING POWER OF COUNCIL TO AMEND CHARTER'S ELECTION PROVISIONS The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter limiting the power of the Council to propose Charter amendments. This measure would amend Charter Section 8.23 to prohibit the County Council from proposing any Charter amendment to Charter Sections 2.12 or 2.13, which pertain to the method of nominating and electing County Council members, except if the Council adopts a proposal for such amendment by a 7-0 vote. Should this proposal be: APPROVED: REJECTED: Text Amendment: Section 8.23 Amendments by the County Council. The County Council may propose amendments to the Charter by enacting an ordinance to submit a proposed amendment to the voters at the next November general election occurring at least ninety (90) days after enactment. A minimum of five (5) affirmative votes shall be required to enact such an ordinance. No ordinance proposing amendment of any provision of Sections 2.12 or 2.13 of this Charter shall be adopted by the Council except by a 7-0 affirmative vote. An ordinance proposing an amendment to the Charter shall not be subject to the veto power of the County Executive. The County Council by unanimous vote of the entire Council may effect amendments to the language of the Charter where the passage of time has rendered language moot or obsolete. Such changes shall be made by ordinance, and have a public hearing. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 4 WORD LIMIT FOR BALLOT QUESTIONS The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission has proposed an amendment to the Whatcom County Charter to provide greater consistency with state law regarding the wording of initiatives and referenda. This measure would amend Charter Sections 5.40 and 5.60 pertaining to initiatives and referenda and increase the word limit for ballot questions from 20 to 40 words. Should this proposal be: APPROVED REJECTED `Text Amendment: Section 5.40 Initiative - Procedures. H:\lill\Charter Review Commisslon\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx Any legal voter or organization of legal voters of Whatcom County may file an initiative proposal with the County Auditor, who within five (5) days, excluding Saturday, Sunday and holidays, shall confer with the petitioner to review the proposal as to form and style. The Auditor shall give the proposed initiative a number, which shall thereafter be the identifying number for the measure. The Auditor shall then transmit a copy of the proposal to the Prosecuting Attorney, who within ten (10) days after receipt thereof, in consultation with the petitioner shall formulate a-Eeneise-sip, ;ry te; the puFPase e F the -testa -Fe the ballot title which shall consist of: (aj 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 sufficient) 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 descri tlon of the measure's essential contents clearly identifY the 12roDositiOn to be voted on and not to the extent reasonabl _gassible, create rp AyudEce_ 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 cc_ starerneFA7-pesed-as-aquestie,,;�� ;�c -t�+e+ y{�9�uver E �.;Q�ssand give true d impartma t r -efer-red the ballot title which shall consist of: a a statement of the subject of the measure; (bI a concise description of the measures and (cl a q uestion: "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 sufficiently Precise to clive 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, clearly identify the progosition 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 „�-rna,We--of-the ceent:y-in the 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 tha !Sqb of the as ;; �� _ EE)Unty iil the last rya'- rrf 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 H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot 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, }:•: _nt (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 councilmembers shall serve no more than three consecutive full terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive unless they are at least four years apart. The limit in terms shall be applied prospectively only, beginning with the elections in 2017 and 2019. Section 3.21 Election and Term of Office. The County Executive shall be nominated and elected by the voters of the county, and the term of office shall be four years and until the successor is elected and qualified. The County Executive shall serve no more than three consecutive full terms in office. Terms are considered consecutive uelgss they are at least four years apart. The limit in terms shall be q lied_prospectively only. beginning .with the election in 2019. Ballot Title: Proposition No. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\13allot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx 7 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++ ref Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint €ettr peFsefls to the committee, tone representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of -any candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom Count in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election. Parties with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second representative on the Districting Committee If the number of total representatives is every, the fe to ;t ap,lointees will select afifth an additional member who shall be the Chairngair. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote For and al2poinL a Chair internally. The Districting Committee shall within thirty (30) days of its appointment meet and appoint a Districting Master who shall be qualified by education, training and experience to draw a districting plan. If the Districting Committee is unable to agree upon the appointment of a Districting Master within thirty (30) days, the County Council shall appoint a Districting Master by March 31 of that year. H:\Jill\Charter Review Commission\Charter Review Commission 2015\Ballot Titles and amendmentsFINALFormatDGedits.docx Ballot Title: Proposition No. 8 ALTERING COMPOSITION OF DISTRICTING COMMISSION 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 €ive- n9efnbe Districting Committee shall be appointed. The County Council shall appoint fei:;Fr perseRS to the committee, tone representative from each major political party, defined as the stated party of any candidate receiving at least 150/0 of the vote in Whatcom Count in the most recent gubernatorial primary or residential election. Parties with a candidate receiving -at least 33% of the vote in either of those elections will be provided a second representative on the Districting Committee. If the number of total representatives is even the feur te app appointees will select a-€ifth an additional member who shall be the Chairman. If the total number is odd the Committee will vote for and appoint 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. Explanatory Statement: Presently the County's redistricting committee is comprised of two persons each from the two major political parties, plus a fifth person chosen by those four. This proposed amendment, if adopted, would provide for one person from each political party with a candidate receiving at least 15% of the vote in Whatcom County in the most recent gubernatorial primary or presidential election, with a second person from each party with a candidate receiving at least 33% of the vote in Whatcom County in either of those elections. If the number so chosen is even, those persons shall select an additional member. rP4 LOM CO`y. 3, Committee Statement Form Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet �9NiriOtO This is the statement of the: X for the: Primary Election District: (e.g., Bellingham School District 501) Committee FOR Committee AGAINST X General Election Proposition Name: Proposition 8 (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000) This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website: www. whatcomcounty. us/auditor/ This form must be filled out in its entirety and returned with the committee statement. Chair Member Name. Eli Mackiewicz Contact Phone: 360-383-7509 E-mail: eli4crc@gmail.com Committee members' names and the committee name (if applicable) will be published in the Local Voters' Pamphlet in conjunction with the For/Against statements. The Following will be Published: "Statement Prepared by": Committee Name, if applicable Eli Mackiewicz Committee Member Name Todd Donovan Karl Uppiano Committee Member Name Committee Member Name The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and RCW 42.17. GPM C0G iTl Committee Appointment Form js Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet RING This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST for the: Primary Election Y - General Election COW District: L6JCLProposition Name: a,4, - "C� R, (e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000) NOTE: The Chair of the committee will be the contact person if there are any questions from Auditor's staff. The phone numbers and e-mail addresses listed below will not be published. This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/ Committee Members 1. �balr Member Name: r � v Contact Phone: �� o-. d')a' E-mail: 1C 71�iV1C] q (y,61 CYA v Signature: 2. Member Name: Contact Phone: E-mail: (/Signature: <7,\ 1 o rlaAa-SL I Member Name: my-1 ►A Contact Phone: E-mail: doY1U111 e /Signature: _ I hereby certify t abovq-tea d 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 S�nM eO, �A Cornmiffee Appointment Form e� Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR Committee AGAINST for the: Primary Election =�(— General Election t-ram District: ��'i 1 C6UL Proposition Name: Cy C(r -' 1- LlevI t --- (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/auditod Committee Wembers t . Otr Member Name: - krJ� t� 0 _ Contact Phone: ��Qo �.. d E--mail: VU,4zftd mco Ulm v Signature: zrAan 2 C E� V 2 D 2. Member Dame: �=i�iLwi�� JUL 31 2015 WHATCOM COUNTY r Contact Phone: E-mail: Signature: 3. Member Name: 168d �J�'1dVGt1� Contact Phone: RW (0 E-mail:-dc[ gwoy) e fl-ISn .ca" Signature. I hereby certify the above named Individuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated. Authorized Signature (Individual with authority to sign for the District) Date The Information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and 42.17. 1ANancy120151FRM CommitteeAppt Form.doc M 3 Committee Appointment Form Whatcom County Local Voters' Pamphlet This is the appointment of the: Committee FOR for the: Primary Election ;L I General Election Committee AGAINST C District: i� J ICA+ ,� & 1✓1�� Proposition Name: , lC� (e.g., Bellingham School District 501) 1 (e.g., General Obligation Bonds - $27,995,000) NOTE: The Chair of the committee will be the contact person if there are any questions from Auditor's staff. The phone numbers and e-mail addresses listed below will not be published. This form is available in a fillable form on the Auditor's website: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor/ Committee Members 1. 6�6if Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature: 2. Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature: 3. Member Name: Contact Phone: Signature: E-mail: E-mail: E-mail: I hereby certify the above named individuals have been appointed and have consented to serve as indicated. Authorized Signature (Individual with authority to sign for the District) Date The information provided on this form is subject to public disclosure laws under RCW 42.56 and 42.17. lANancy\2015\FRM Committee Appt Form.doc