Date of meeting: 06/26/2025
Main Discussion Points:
SUMMARY OF 12 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS FOR NOVEMBER BALLOT * INTENT describes desired outcome. Original proposed amendment number shown in parentheses.
1. Require Charter Review convening Commissioner to propose operating rules for adoption by the body. INTENT: From first meeting, follow standard parliamentary procedures that govern discussion and decision-making. (#1).
2. Require analysis of any proposed County code changes and identify potential effects on land supply and construction costs. INTENT: Reduce cost of new housing and permitting process. (#17)
3. Adjust required number of signatures to 20% of votes cast at last County Executive election to place a charter amendment on the ballot. INTENT: Reduce burden of signature gathering. (#19)
4. Adjust required number of signatures to 14% of votes cast at last County Executive election to place a referendum on the ballot. INTENT: Reduce burden of signature gathering. (#20)
5. Modify County redistricting process. INTENT: Update Charter to be congruent with current state law on redistricting and increases opportunities for public input. (#22)
6. Modify budget development process. INTENT: Require County to bring budget to Council 100 days before end of budget cycle. Make budget info available to the public with sufficient time for input. (#23)
7. Add accountability to financial reporting requirements. INTENT: Require on-time quarterly reports before County Council can approve supplemental appropriations. (#25)
8. Establish performance audits. INTENT: Authorize periodic performance and program audits to review effectiveness and efficiency of County programs and operations. County Exec to report to Council on implementation of approved performance audit recommendations. (#26)
9. Clarify powers and duties of independently elected officials (Assessor, Auditor, Treasurer, and Sheriff). INTENT: Explicitly state that these officials are responsible for what goes on in their offices and they are not directed by the County Exec. (#27)
10. Prohibit County Council from taking any action to impede, alter or prevent an initiative petition from being placed on the ballot. INTENT: Ensure Council does not restrict the citizen initiative process. (#29)
11. Authorize County Council members to hire dedicated aides. INTENT: Ensure that members can use County funds to hire an aide that reports directly to them. (#30)
12. Establish a Whatcom County Office of the Ombuds by 2027 for a 5-year period. Then allow County Council to decide whether the office is effective and whether funding should continue. INTENT: Ombuds Office would receive and investigate complaints and inquiries about County government. (#34)
Comments:
Proposed amendments will appear on the ballot in order of Charter articles, grouping by topic/area of Charter impacted. Last regular scheduled meeting will be on Thursday, July 10 at 6:00 pm at the Whatcom County Courthouse Council Chambers (311 Grand Ave.) You can sign up to volunteer for the Pro and Con Committee at this link: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/FormCenter/Council-20/Pro-and-Con-Committee-Application-441
Name of members absent: Jon Mutchler (excused absence)