Charter Review Candidates

Editor’s Note: Whatcom Watch contacted the 71 candidates who filed for Charter Review Commission—we asked them to write a statement for our paper. Twenty-eight candidates were contacted via regular mail and 43 via e-mail.

There were nine candidates who withdrew in time to have their names removed from the ballot, and three who withdrew from the race too late to have their names removed from the ballot. Of the remaining 59 candidates, 37 sent statements to Whatcom Watch. We’d like to thank those who responded by our deadline. We added a comma here and there and a missing period or two but didn’t tamper with the content of these statements.

District 1

Did not send statement.

Withdrew from race too late to have name removed from ballot.

Did not send statement.

Withdrew from race too late to have name removed from ballot.

As concerned citizens we know the need for public involvement and a balanced process. This is why I am seeking to represent and be a voice for those who seldom speak out or are heard and to help create a balance.

Name – Richard (Dick) Gilda, born and raised in Whatcom County and for 38 years I have lived on a small Tree farm in Beautiful Lake Whatcom Water Shed.

Occupation – A small business owner. Since 1983 owner and operator of A-Total Service, a land and vegetation Management Business. Now dividing my time with my new business permit assistance and processing.

Experience – Presently serving on Shorelines Management Critical Areas Advisory Committee. Previously served two terms on the planning commission – Wash. Association of Planners board of directors. Governors Committee on Pipeline Safety – Love INC (a Christian help group) board of directors.

Issues – population growth – natural resources (including water) – Over regulation with lack of education and understanding.

I am running for the Charter Review District 1 position because I care deeply about our county and see this as an opportunity to contribute back to the community that has been my home for 24 years. Having served on numerous professional, university, and community committees over the years I will bring those skills to the Review process. I will work hard to represent the interests of District 1 citizens to:

•Retain current level of district representation on the County Council.

•Maximize citizen access and involvement in county government.

•Retain current general election process to ensure council member accountability to all citizens of Whatcom County, not just to the district s/he represents.

I ask for your support to ensure that our charter continues to provide the clear direction, guidance, and tools to keep our community strong and able to handle any issues in the years to come

I am running for the Charter Review Commission because I believe in public service. During the past 12 years in my work, I review and analyze federal and state laws and regulations; recommending changes that will support my organization’s goals. I enjoy this work and feel that the commission will benefit from my experience.

I have been a member of the Samish Neighborhood Association for 11 years and its president for three years, a past member of the mayor’s advisory committee and Visions of Bellingham. I have served on local ad hoc health committees as well as state and national heath workgroups.

I do not have any particular issues or special interests. I support citizen legislators, not full time legislators. I believe the more citizen-input to a decision, the better; yet recognize the need for input from expert staff. My rule is: “if it is not broken, do not fix it.”

Did not send statement.

Retired professor of art from West Virginia State College after 33 years. Four children, ages 25 to 42. Partner: Joan Marie Brooks. Education: 1977 Doctor of Arts, Carnegie Mellon U. 1960 Master of Fine Arts Degree, University of Michigan. 1957-58 University of Michigan Law School. 1957 Bachelor of Fine Arts, Wayne State University.

Recent political activity: 2004-present: director, Sudden Valley Community Association. 2003 candidate for commissioner, Water District #10.

Charter Review concerns and views:

1. Compensation of councilmembers not tied to County Executive salary.

2. Election by districts of councilmembers, concerns.

3. Partisan vs. nonpartisan primaries, concerns.

For the past two years, I led the local effort in opposing the USA Patriot Act that resulted in resolutions being passed by Bellingham and Whatcom County. In passing those resolutions, I worked cooperatively with people from across the political spectrum, while organizing several hundred citizens to attend each council meeting and voice their concerns.

As your Charter Review Commissioner, I will continue to speak out to ensure that ours is a government that is representative of all people. I will oppose all attempts by special interests and associations of greed to hijack our county government in pursuit of their own agenda. I will continue to be the voice that asks us to acknowledge the connection between ourselves and all other living things; a courageous and reasonable voice in ensuring that our government acts purposefully with foresight and sustainability in mind! For more information, please visit http://www.voteforpolin.org.

Did not send statement.

Every citizen deserves respect. The Whatcom County Charter Review Commissioners will show that respect by keeping an open mind to all opinions and suggestions they receive. I’ve been an attorney in Whatcom County for 30 years, and I learn something new every day. I’m not afraid to change my opinions if someone gives me information I didn’t know before. This county will thrive only if every citizen believes his or her opinion matters. On the commission I’ll encourage full citizen participation in the charter review process.

I’ll also use my professional mediation training and experience to help all 15 commissioners work together for the best of our community. The commissioners will come from different backgrounds and with different ideas for making Whatcom County a better place to live. Every commissioner is important. No one small group has all the answers. Only by working together will the commissioners develop ideas that are truly in the best interest of Whatcom County.

Did not send statement.

Did not send statement.

I became a resident of Whatcom County in 1968, attended Bellingham public schools and graduated from Sehome High School in 1981. I hold a BS in Mathematics (1986) from Western Washington University and have graduate training in statistics and demography from the Pennsylvania State University. Presently, I reside on the southwest side of Sehome Hill. Since returning to Whatcom County in 2002, I have served on the Board of Directors for the local chapter of the Washington Conservation Voters.

I believe that Charter Review Commissioners should be deliberative and conscientious representatives of Whatcom County residents. I have a keen understanding of the environmental, economic, social, and political issues that we face here and will provide a balanced perspective on local governance issues. I can quickly analyze relevant information and render quick decisions—a requirement for this short-lived commission.

Local government is the front line in providing for the public health, safety and welfare of the community. The major issue is to keep local government as responsive as possible. The downside of this is that in order to make government more responsive more power is put into the hands of fewer people. This has the potential for a greater risk for abuse. There must be a check and balance system in place to restrict the abuse of power and to allow the needs of the people to be addressed.

I’m a 66-year resident of Whatcom County. I have a wide range of experience and background in county government. I have served as deputy auditor/election supervisor, County Commissioner and County Nursing Home Administrator. I served on the 1995 Charter Review Commission as well as minor appointments at the pleasure of the County Council.

In summation I believe that I can bring a great deal of insight into how county government works. I feel this would be of service to the people of Whatcom County,

Did not send statement.

I grew up in Bellingham and own a small, local business, Wilson’s Furniture. I have a business degree from Western Washington University and a law degree (magna cum laude) from Gonzaga University. I am currently active in Kiwanis, Lions, the Boys and Girls Club, Bellingham’s Greenways Committee, and the PTA’s for Lowell Elementary and Fairhaven Middle School. I have been married for 24 years and have two school age children.

I am running for Charter Review because of a concern with growth in Whatcom County. Local governments are competing for tax generating commercial sites without addressing the impact to surrounding areas. To optimally manage growth, we need a single planning and zoning authority. This can be accomplished by forming a combined city and county municipal corporation as contemplated by the Washington State Constitution, Article XI, Section 16.

I would like your support to explore combining all local governments in the Charter Review Commission.

District 2

My name is Danna Beech and I a lifetime resident of Whatcom County, District #2. I retired as postmaster of Maple Falls after 38 years of service.

I was elected to the Charter Review Commission 10 years ago. I’ve served eight years on the Whatcom County Planning Commission until December 2003. I served as vice chair and chairman during 1999 –2001. Other boards include: sheriff’s advisory board (early 1980s), Contel Telephone Co. advisory board (1970s) and the Foothill’s C/C. I‘ve been active in community affairs for the last 30 years.

One issue I would like to explore is having each County Councilmember elected from their own district, rather than countywide. As our county continues to grow most of the growth will occur in the cities, it’s important to balance representation for the rural population.

If elected, I will contribute a lot of experience in listening, negotiating and making difficult decisions.

The reason I’m running for this office is to serve my county and assist in making our home rule charter even better. I believe we have a good form of government, that it can be improved and that it should be updated as time passes—hence the review every 10 years. I’m concerned by efforts of special interest groups that attempt to influence the outcome of this commission for the benefit of a few, overlooking the overall affect on our environment and quality of life in our county.

I’m fair and open-minded, and do not bring a special interest agenda to this committee. I’ve served many organizations in our community over the past 26 years and believe I’ve demonstrated sound judgment, leadership and an ability to help form consensus out of division. I would appreciate the opportunity to work toward making Whatcom County even better than it already is.

Whatcom County is a wonderful place to live, play and work. We as citizens face many challenges in the near future. The Whatcom County Charter is the primary document enabling the local county government to function.

As a Charter Review Commissioner I hope to give Whatcom County government the tools to face these challenges. My term as a commissioner will endeavor to balance the needs of the people of Whatcom County with the needs of the officials in the government so they may serve the public.

I plan to use my knowledge and expertise to review and make any necessary corrections to make the charter one that all citizens of Whatcom County can be proud of.

I offer my time and experiences to serve on the Charter Review Commission out of a desire to contribute to the health of a community that has been a home to my family for many generations. I can draw on my substantial experience with county government and carefully listen and weigh suggestions to improve our charter.

I am not inclined to make major changes in the current charter but would consider an evaluation of the workload placed on council members. Are we expecting too much for the part-time representatives? It seems that the idea of a citizen representative who carves out a small portion of their time from their regular endeavors may be somewhat idealistic. I will also consider a new districting format that reflects true communities rather than very artificial lines we currently have in place.

Did not send statement.

Bob Bromley is a fourth generation Whatcom County resident whose family settled here in the 1880s. He is owner of Bromley’s Market, served the city of Sumas 14 years as City Councilman, and is currently in his third year as mayor. His service includes many other boards and committees in Whatcom County and between the U.S. and Canada.

“My running for Charter Review is to ensure the charter remains a vibrant document that constitutes the present form of government the voters continue to support. Also, that it is up to date and reflects the principles, process, policy and ideals of the citizens of district 2 and its communities. I support bringing representation closer to the voters in their districts. Our current charter lacks in providing and distributing the accountability to the citizens of the districts. Vote Bob Bromley and bring your government representation closer to real home rule.”

As a Charter Review Commissioner I would like to see just a few changes and additions to the current charter. I believe that the County Council members should be elected from within the district in which they are running and not by a countywide vote. This would save money and provide for better representation for each district. I also would like to see a citizen committee used to work with elected officials to determine elected officials pay increases. I believe that the “mini” initiative process should be tightened to require more of a showing of interested citizens in an issue prior to forcing the issue to go before the council.

The most important part in this process is to remember that the charter is our constitution and should not be aggressively changed or modified to fit any special interest. Regardless of whom you vote for, know the candidate. Are they far left or far right? Do they have a special interest association behind them? Are the issues they want changed more an item for council debate than changing of the constitution?

I decided to run for a position on the Charter Review Commission as a way of serving and giving back to the community where I was born and raised. If elected, my goal will be to work with other commission members to identify possible ways our Home Rule Charter could be modified to bring Whatcom County government closer to its citizens. To the extent we succeed, I believe we have the opportunity to foster more accountable local government.

Following retirement after nearly 30 years in health care publishing, my wife and I relocated to Bellingham in 2002 to be closer to family. My career took us from the San Francisco Bay Area to St. Louis, Missouri, providing us with unique perspective and an appreciation for our environment here in Whatcom County. Received B.A.(honors), in political science from San Jose State University (’64).

Having previously had the privilege to help write the existing charter as a freeholder and participate during both reviews, I wish to provide extensive resource and continuity for this effort.

My main interest is to help provide “teeth” to assist creating greater governmental compliance clearly spoken!

As to the requested photo—I’m just a plain old farmer—no photo available and hence, your readers are better served by a blank space where you would otherwise place my mug!

Every ten years, the citizens of Whatcom County have the unique opportunity to elect fellow citizens to review our county government’s charter. Through this process, we evaluate and consider changes to improve our government’s ability to serve our current and future needs and enhance our unique and diverse way of life.

I seek the position of Charter Review Commissioner to represent our citizens’ interests in good and effective local government. It is my commitment to listen and consider all ideas presented, to make this a “good government“ commission, not a commission working for any interests other than those of our citizens.

Both my husband, Tim McMurry, and I were born in Whatcom County. We make our home on McMurry‘s Mountainside Hazelnut Farm near Everson, on land that has been in Tim’s family since 1949. My community service includes Whatcom Crisis Services, Nooksack Cemetery District (elected),YWCA and the Northwest advisory board to Regence Blue Shield.

I’ve lived in Whatcom County for almost 30 years, married for 26 years, and I have two children in college. I have a long history of public service—as a state auditor in the ‘80s, budget manager and chief deputy auditor for the county in the ‘90s and assistant director of the county health department presently. My community service ethic includes serving on not-for profit boards both local and state wide organizations. I am running because I care about the quality of our community and believe it is important that the “rules of the game” in county government are fair for all. I’ve worked for both elected and appointed county officials; I’ve audited the books of the county, and I now work for a large county department, so I have seen county operations from many different perspectives. I think I am uniquely qualified to participate in the review of the county charter.

My campaign theme is “Protect the Constitution” and that is exactly what I will do as a commissioner.

Whatcom County is a wonderful place to live and I have a great deal of pride in this county. I am running for Charter Review Commission because I think it is critical to protect the county constitution from radical changes and influences from special interest groups. As citizens, we must make sure that the constitution provides the necessary framework for the county government to serve all the people of Whatcom County, not just certain populations.

If elected, I will remain objective and strive toward building consensus among the commissioners. Additionally, I believe my educational and professional background as an attorney will be an asset to the process.

I proudly received the endorsement of the “Whatcom Conservation Voters—Whatcom County Chapter” and now ask for your support on November 2.

Thank you for enlisting my statement as a candidate for Charter Review Commission. I am 59 years of age and have resided in Whatcom County for 52 years. My wife of 37 years, Diana, and I raised our four children here. We are committed to a strong quality of life in our county. I come with opinions, however I do not have a fixed agenda realizing the importance of listening to others as together we can act on the facts presented and expressed by the people.

Larry Nicholas, born in Bellingham, I graduated from BHS in 1979, WWU in 1985 (BA in geology). My wife Jessica and I have 2 sons, 11 and 15.

A third generation small business owner, Accurate Lock & Security, Inc. The business is successful in that I keep five employees employed with health and other benefits. I understand the importance of small business in creating jobs and wealth in a community.

I have been active in the Boy Scouts as an adult for nine years. I understand the importance of community service, conservation and promoting programs for our youth. I’m chairman of the Whatcom County Libertarian Central Committee. My positions and principals are drawn from our Constitution. I will work to enhance personal and economic liberties. I have always been interested in science. My geology degree required chemistry, physics, biology, and math. Our county is geologically a very active area.

Shannon O’Brien: building consensus. It would be an honor to serve you, the citizens of Whatcom County, as a member of the Charter Review Commission. During my ten years in the field of education, I have learned that diligence, respect and communication are the key components to building consensus in order to get a job done. If elected, my role would be to ensure that all individuals are represented so that our government will run efficiently and effectively in order to maintain our lovely Whatcom County.

If I was actively campaigning for election to the Charter Review Commission my slogan would be, don’t fix what ain’t broke!

Our county’s original board of freeholders established the structure of our home rule government 26 years ago in a remarkably succinct document. Their product, our county charter, has served us well.

The charter review table is not the place to debate growth, solve social problems or seek world peace. It is to re-examine the structure of our county government and decide if it still serves us best.

Issues like primary voting for County Council candidates, the size of our County Council, the uncompensated time commitment we ask of council members, council district boundaries, and other matters certainly do merit discussion.

I have lived Whatcom County for over 30 years. I hope to be part of that discussion concerning this place we all love….right here in the 4th Corner!

Did not send statement.

Did not send statement.

Withdrew from race too late to have name removed from ballot.

Why did the playwright run for charter review? To punch up the county’s second act, add a few jokes, make the county more accessible.

District-only voting makes sense only if the districts make sense. My district includes the Lettered Street Neighborhood, Lynden, Deming and I think, Hozomeen. That make sense to you? Make it six equal districts, one councilor each and one at-large. Then I’ll consider district-only voting. Otherwise, don’t change what ain’t broke. That does double for “three commissioners” which worked so well for Marc Anthony.

The charter needs minor tweaking, some equity in districting and solid praise. It doesn’t need overt polarizing political agendas crammed into the margins.

Literally and figuratively. Whatcom County needs to remain a window to the world that delivers its own milk. Oh yeah, and I’m a Democrat for I-872: viva la Top Two!

District 3

Did not send statement.

Did not send statement.

One of the reasons I am running is to make certain the commission keeps its focus on charter changes and does not get diverted to other extraneous issues.

Also I believe that better government is government closer to the people. I feel there needs to be discussion of this concept to provide for a better understanding of what “closer to the people” means in the Whatcom County charter in the 21st century.

No matter the discussion; whether it is about council people being elected from their respective districts or even about going back to a commissioner system; I feel my experience serving seven years on the Meridian School Board will enhance the review process. Over these years I have worked with a diverse group of individuals in a nonpartisan way to further the goals of education. I feel my school board experience will help in focusing discussions on the various issues building a consensus so issues can be brought to the voters if necessary.

Did not send statement.

I’m running for Charter Review Commission as an advocate of good government. I’ll work to promote fair elections, quality of life and planning for our future. Our charter sets the political process—not policy. I’ll insure your charter is about fair process, not special interest policy. The charter is our local constitution. It determines our government structure, defines our elections, and sets rules about initiatives. I’ll defend you from partisan districting schemes. I fought the political parties to defend Washington’s traditional blanket primary, and helped prosecute campaign finance violations. While teaching at Western, I’ve been recognized as an expert on local elections and initiatives. I hope to bring this energy and expertise to the charter review. I am endorsed by Whatcom Conservation Voters, a nonpartisan group working in the public interest to support environmentally responsible candidates. Look for the last office on your ballot. Please support Todd Donovan.

Did not send statement.

Charter Review Commission members, all need a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. Constitution, and “Bill of Rights.” Our charter, (sec. 2.13). Permitting the “at-large” method of voting countywide all Councilmember’s seats, clearly in disregard of the “Voter Rights Act of 1965.” See: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/voting/sec_2/recent.htm. Rights of the civil wars, 14th and 15th Amendments. President Lincoln’s statement, “The trouble with too many people is they believe the realm of truth always lies within their vision...Let the people know the truth and the country is safe.” I have concern with the procedures used by the executive and legislative branches, regarding their appointments of the numerous volunteer advisory boards, commissions and committees. My experiences with these bodies, that completely misunderstand their duties to all members of the public. “Life, liberty and property,” fundamental and enumerated civil rights, not negotiable under law.

Ten years ago, I was elected and served on the Charter Review Commission. I provided a clear understanding of the county government and the charter as it exists today. I have lived in Whatcom County my entire life and my goal on this commission is to add knowledge and an open mind and to listen to each and every person who is interested in changes they want to see with the charter.

My experience in county government for the last 28 years has provided me the knowledge of how it operates, local and state mandates and the government structure as a whole. I care deeply about the people who make up this county and I am well aware of the effect changes can have on each and every person who lives here.

I am a candidate for the Charter Review Commission to give service to Whatcom County and the community where I live and to be a sensible participant with no pre-set agenda. I have no changes to the charter in mind but would listen to both sides of issues and make informed decisions. As a retired teacher and negotiator for the Ferndale teachers I can state my own opinions to issues openly and tactfully. I want the county charter to reflect the kind of community I wish to live in and leave for future generations including my own family.

Did not send statement.

Did not send statement.

I transferred to Whatcom County in 1976 and have been in awe of the beauty and treasure nestled in this 4th corner of the Pacific Northwest. Since that time I have seen significant change within our county…some good, some not! For the past thirty-three years I have been employed in federal law enforcement. In my various management positions I have reviewed, written and implemented various policies, rules and regulations. I have managed many programs and numerous employees. For almost fifteen years I have been a North Coast Credit Union volunteer, involved in the review of policy, business plans and the development of strategic plans and budgets.

I agree with the preamble of our county charter. “Treasuring the many wonders of our unique environment and realizing that the power and duty to govern and protect this region is inherent in its people, we, the citizens…” If elected I promise to serve you, my fellow citizens of Whatcom County.

Despite our present climate of hostility, fear and polarization, I believe that within our county lies sufficient intelligence and resolve to overcome our present challenges and establish a competent course forward. The Charter Review Commission can be yet another exercise in adversarial politics, or it can be an opportunity to tap into our collective wisdom.

The most important task of the commission will be to find and develop the means by which we can listen closely to one another and to the people of Whatcom County. It is within our grasp to develop shared understanding, find common purpose and generate the will to implement changes. The tools for truly effective group process are readily available (but rarely used).

The best path into our future cannot be determined by ‘us’ or ‘them,’ but by We the People. I welcome the support of those who seek less politics and more possibilities.

Did not send statement.

I was born and raised in California, graduated from Pioneer High School. I joined the U.S. Navy days after graduation and served five tours in Vietnam. It was in Vietnam I learned about the consequences of choices and how they can affect the rest of your life.

I move to Ferndale, WA, in 1972 and for the most part have lived in Whatcom County since. I graduated from Whatcom Community College in 1976. I’ve worked in the oil refining business for over 30 years. I owned my own business, the Cookie Café for five years.

My community experience has consisted of the following: vice chair of the Rosemere Neighborhood Association (Vancouver, WA). A member of the environmental chapter of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan, and was a member of the Bellingham Downtown Visioning Committee.

I am a member of the American Birding Association, North Cascades Audubon Society, National Wildlife Federation, The Nature Conservancy and the Whatcom County Democrats.

The County Council doesn’t adequately represent the rural communities. I will fight for:

•The continuation of the basic charter principles of home rule and fair representation.

•District-wide general elections rather than countywide.

•A common sense approach to a fair and balanced county government.

Did not send statement.

Did not send statement.

Families, farms and businesses are affected by the position our legislators take on such issues as land use, water, property rights, transportation, crime and emergency medical services. We must not allow small, but highly vocal, special interest groups to prevail over the majority of district voters.

The third district has several communities within its boundaries. We have distinct geographical, political and economic issues that differ from other districts. Our county legislators must be accountable to voters in the districts they represent.

These concerns can be addressed best by a legislative body elected by voters in the districts it represents. With district elections, our legislators can be more responsive to the needs of the communities they represent and, therefore, collectively represent the diversity of our county as a whole.

Did not send statement.