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November 6, 2007 General Election
City of Seattle voters will find five City Council positions on the November 6, 2007 ballot, as well as two City of Seattle Charter Amendments.
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Browse the Voters' Guide → (Click links on right) |
Acrobat PDF versions of the paper voters' guide can be found here:
Done with this guide to City of Seattle Candidates and Ballot Issues? Here are some other official voters' guides:
Voter Registration, Polling Places & Absentee Ballots
King County Records & Elections administers the voting process for Seattle City Offices and City Ballot Issues. All inquiries regarding the following subjects should be directed to them:
Links are here...
King County Records and Elections
Another source of information on this subject is the Washington Secretary of State, they can be found at...
The Seattle Ethics & Elections Commission is responsible for administering Campaign Finance regulations and the Voters' Pamphlet for Seattle campaigns, not the actual voting process.
Seattle Form of Government
Seattle is a Charter City with a Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor is directly elected by the voters and most executive departments report to the Mayor. There are nine City Councilmembers, all of whom are elected at-large. The only other elected position is the City Attorney, who is also elected at-large. The regular term of all offices is four years.
Candidates for these offices must be U.S. Citizens, registered voters in the City of Seattle at the time they file their declaration of candidacy, and able to read and write the English language.
All City office elections are non-partisan, which means the top two vote-getters in the primary election are placed on the general election ballot. This is true regardless of whether or not one candidate received a majority of the primary vote. If two people or less file declarations of candidacy for any of these offices, that office does not appear on the primary election ballot, but does appear on the general election ballot. Parties do not nominate candidates to appear on the ballot and the ballots do not identify the candidates by party. Parties can and do endorse and support certain candidates, but play no other role in nominating candidates or determining who is placed on the primary or general election ballot.
Ballot issues may appear on your ballot in the primary, general or special election. Those issues are decided in the election where they appear.
Video Voters' Guide
The Video Voters' Guide is a joint production of King County Television, the Seattle Channel, King County Records & Elections and the Seattle Ethics & Elections Commission.
All City Council and School Board Candidates - View Video
All Council Position 1 Candidates - View Video
Jean Godden - Written & Video
Joe Szwaja - Written & Video
All Council Position 3 Candidates - View Video
Bruce Harrell - Written & Video
Venus Velázquez - Written & Video
All Council Position 5 Candidates - View Video
Tom Rasmussen - Written & Video
{candidate is unopposed}
All Council Position 7 Candidates - View Video
Tim Burgess - Written & Video
David Della - Written & Video
All Council Position 9 Candidates - View Video
Sally J. Clark - Written & Video
Judy Fenton - Written & Video
Charter Amendment 17 - View Video
Charter Amendment 18 - View Video
All School Board Candidates - View Video
County and Port Video Guide - Once published will be available at King County Records and Elections
Council Position 1 - Nonpartisan
Jean Godden
PO Box 21522
Seattle, WA 98111
(206) 383-3022
jean@jeangodden.com
www.jeangodden.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Jean Godden
I want to thank voters for a majority vote victory in the primary – besting all three of my opponents put together. And since then two of those contenders, Lauren Briel and Robert Sondheim, have generously offered me their endorsement. I thank you all.
If the primary was about experience and the work I have done for the past four years, I am hoping the general election campaign will focus on about what we should do in the next four years.
First, I want a more people-friendly government. I’m working to put together a “311” telephone system, a service that you can call any time you want help from your government and be directed to the right place to get the help you need.
Next, we need better customer service. As chair of the Energy & Technology Committee, I am working on making the services you depend upon more accountable. When the lights go out, when your cable TV connection fails, when your drains are clogged and your streets are filled with potholes, you have a right to have your government help you in a timely manner. (Two weeks later is not “timely”).
Seattle is considered “technology central” in the Pacific Northwest. Yet, we don’t make the grade when it comes to technology. Access to technology should be available to all of us. It’s time for a community discussion on developing a city-wide broadband network (a service that provides internet, TV and phone connections directly to your home). Ideally this service would be available at the least cost to all with discounted rates for seniors and low-income residents, much as our current electric and water rates are structured.
My first four years were dedicated to energy and the environment, and I’ll stay that course. But I believe we can do so much more to make your connections with City Hall better. That will be my focus for the next four years.
So, I ask for your vote in the general election, your renewal of my contract to work 24-7 to make Seattle the best place in the country to live, work, play and to grow your kids and ideas.
I am proud to be endorsed by: The Seattle Times, The Seattle PI, Washington Conservation Voters, King County Labor Council, King County Democrats, Allied Arts, National Women’s Political Caucus, Seattle Firefighters’ Union, Cascade Bicycle Club, and numerous other organizations and elected officials.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 1 - Nonpartisan
Joe Szwaja
PO Box 30149
Seattle, WA 98113-0149
(206) 420-1830
campaign@joeforcouncil.com
www.joeforcouncil.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Joe Szwaja
Thank you for your strong support in the Primary. As your Council representative I will always be available to you. My home phone number is 206-523-3656.
Our wonderful city is slipping away from us. Development is out of control. Seniors and working people can’t afford housing. Traffic is horrible and we are losing our open spaces.
The Mayor and some Councilmembers are neglecting essential services while they waste our taxes on corporate welfare for developers such as Paul Allen’s Vulcan, and plan extravagant projects like tunnels and trolleys.
Meanwhile, hundreds of millions in deferred maintenance on our streets, bridges and other critical infrastructure go unaddressed. Power outages at Seattle City Light now last twice as long.
Your vote can provide the oversight and balance that we need to restore a positive, democratic direction for our unique and beautiful city.
Thank you for your support, and I will always represent you to the very best of my ability.
Elect Joe Szwaja and Wake Up City Hall!
Endorsed by The Stranger, Seattle Rainforest Action and a diverse community of neighborhood, labor, environmental, GLBT, peace, and social justice advocates. Visit our web site and add your support!
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 3 - Nonpartisan
Bruce Harrell
P.O. Box 21208
Seattle, WA 98111
(206) 949-3549
bharrell@electbruceharrell.com
www.electbruceharrell.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Bruce Harrell
We need strong leadership to sustain a livable Seattle with safe neighborhoods, efficient transportation and quality schools. I’m the best candidate to achieve this vision.
I am one of you.
Growing up in a working class Seattle household, my parents showed me the values of leading by example and uniting people. These values shaped my career as an attorney, father of three great kids and community volunteer.
For 30 years I’ve been on the front-line helping kids and workers needing a voice. I’ve helped disadvantaged women start businesses and seniors understand their rights. I’ve resolved tough disputes—building a record of positive results, not just talk.
My record of service is clear. My values are proven.
I bring strong, homegrown leadership where it matters.
Transportation: Transit and road investments must serve our neighborhoods and reflect our priorities to move people and goods. That’s why I’ve spent years protecting small businesses and neighborhoods, assuring local voices help guide local transportation decisions. I’ll work for more bicycle trails and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.
Public Safety: Crime and inadequate emergency services destroy our quality of life. That’s why I’ve mentored in Seattle’s toughest neighborhoods. I’ll push for more police and fire services and improve technology for faster emergency response times.
Seattle Schools: Three generations of my family graduated from Seattle Public Schools — no candidate has a deeper commitment to our schools. Strong neighborhoods support strong schools, which is why I’ll make sure we use our libraries and teen centers to help every child’s life after school. For years I’ve worked with school officials to improve standards, build support networks and help our kids succeed.
Environmental Protection: Seattle should lead our region in Puget Sound cleanup. I’m committed to addressing global climate change. I’ll roll up my sleeves and champion efforts to protect our air and water, parks and public health.
I ask for your vote.
“We Believe in Bruce!”
Highest Ratings: “A”- Women in Unity, “Very Good”- Municipal League, Cascade Bicycle Club, Alki Foundation, King County Democrats, Seattle Police Management Association, Gov. Gary Locke, Exec. Ron Sims, Virginia Anderson, Paula Boggs, Jenny Durkan, Norm Rice, Wes Uhlman, City Attorneys Tom Carr and Mark Sidran, Chris Bayley, Speaker Frank Chopp, Senator Ed Murray, Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos, Paul Kraabel, Warren Aakervik, Phil Talmadge, Coach Don James, “Downtown” Freddie Brown, Al Runte, Joint Council of Teamsters No. 28, Seattle Times and P.I.…and thousands more!
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 3 - Nonpartisan
Venus Velázquez
(206) 450-3886
venus@venus4seattle.com
www.venus4seattle.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Venus Velázquez
Seattle needs a different kind of leadership—someone who can get things done.
For the last 15 years, I have worked to make Seattle a better place by leading groups with differing agendas, negotiating and resolving challenging conflicts and bringing about positive outcomes. I’ve been an effective leader because I am decisive, honest and not afraid to take on tough challenges.
As a neighborhood planner, advocate for nonprofit and environmental organizations, and small business owner, I have fought for economic opportunities, affordable housing, community services and quality schools to keep our city livable and affordable.
I believe that who is at the table matters. If elected I will be the only councilmember raising a young family with children in public school. Seattle’s families deserve a leader who is walking the same road and is personally invested in ensuring quality public education, affordable housing, real transportation choices and safe neighborhoods throughout our city.
You can count on me to lead Seattle forward on challenging matters—and to stand strong against special interests and political pressures—because I always have.
I bring hands-on knowledge of critical issues, including land use, transportation, conservation, economic development and human services. I have worked in local government, the private and nonprofit sectors, and in diverse communities and neighborhoods.
The decisions that the council makes in the next five years will affect the next 50. As a councilmember, I will focus on keeping Seattle competitive and keeping families in our city. I am focused, results oriented and I get things done. Join me in helping Seattle fulfill its promise for us and for our children.
For more details about me, my qualifications, endorsements and vision, please visit www.Venus4Seattle.com.
Endorsed by: Seattle Post-Intelligencer, The Seattle Times, The Stranger, National Women’s Political Caucus of Washington, King County and 34th, 36th & 46th District Democrats, City Councilmembers Richard Conlin and Peter Steinbrueck, King County Councilmember Dow Constantine, Rep. Eric Pettigrew, Sen. Margarita Prentice, former mayor Paul Schell, former school board president Barbara Schaad-Lamphere, Pramila Jayapal, Denis Hayes, Tom Byers, Maryanne Tagney Jones, Jessyn Farrell, Maggie Walker, and many state legislators, neighborhood advocates, labor unions and leaders from the education, environmental, human services and business communities.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 5 - Nonpartisan
Tom Rasmussen
(206) 234-8303
(206) 282-2704 Fax
campaign@tom4seattle.com
www.tom4seattle.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Tom Rasmussen
Re-Elect Tom Rasmussen. Working for Seattle; Getting Results
I ran for City Council in 2003 with the commitment to be open and accessible and to work for results. For the last three-and-half years, I have kept that promise by running a responsive and effective office. I am all about getting things done. I take action when individuals and neighborhoods ask for help. A local newspaper has referred to me as a “one-man citizen’s service bureau”.
During my first term I have focused on strengthening programs to help senior citizens live with dignity and independence in their own homes. I am proud to be considered the voice for seniors on the City Council.
I have launched creative programs to help build more affordable housing and I have worked to save threatened wildlife habitats.
I am extremely concerned that as our City becomes more crowded, drivers are becoming more aggressive. We’ve all seen more and more people run red lights. I am working to strengthen pedestrian and traffic safety, and I led the effort to install red-light cameras to prevent these violations and to stop tragic accidents.
Leading Seattle Forward
Seattle is poised to grow by over 90,000 people in the next fifteen years. Today we have two choices: we either stand aside and let growth happen and risk losing the character, diversity, and quality of life in our city, or we manage and plan for the kind of city we want.
While I will continue to work for seniors and the most vulnerable in our community, here are some of my other priorities for my next term:
Protecting Neighborhoods. I will work with people throughout Seattle to protect the unique character and quality of our neighborhoods.
Keeping Seattle Affordable. Seattle should be a City where people of all income levels can work and live. I will focus on policies and incentives to build affordable housing. This is perhaps one of our greatest challenges today.
Protecting our Parks and Open Space. As we plan for more workers and residents I will work to insure that we have the parks, playgrounds and open spaces that we will need in all neighborhoods.
It has been a great privilege and honor to work for the people of Seattle. I look forward to working with you and to serving you for another four years. Thank you for your support.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 5 - Nonpartisan
Unopposed
Tom Rasmussen was the only person to Declare Candidacy for this office.
Council Position 7 - Nonpartisan
Tim Burgess
PO Box 9100
Seattle, WA 98109
(206) 300-7977
(206) 282-2704 Fax
info@timburgess2007.com
timburgess2007.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Tim Burgess
Elect Tim Burgess. Proven Leadership Seattle Needs Now!
Our City Council needs effective leaders who will protect our neighborhoods and environment, address transportation challenges, invest in public safety, and support our schools. Our Council needs leaders who value community, equality, and fairness. I am that kind of leader.
I bring diverse, proven experience to the Council as a former journalist, police detective, anti-poverty worker and successful business owner. My wife Joleen and I, and our three daughters, are all graduates of Seattle Public Schools. I have served as Chair of the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission and led my local community council.
Two years ago, I helped organize my neighbors to fight a massive, big-box retail development that threatened the character and diversity of our neighborhood. Had we not prevailed, we would have lost a locally-owned union grocer.
This is the type of grassroots, hands-on leadership I will bring to the City Council. My priorities—and the strength of my endorsements—reflect my commitment to being a responsive, focused leader.
NEIGHBORHOODS—I have earned the support of neighborhood leaders because I understand the need for citizens to have a voice in land use planning.
ENVIRONMENT—Because of failed leadership on the Council, I have earned the endorsement of the Sierra Club and Washington Conservation Voters. I will protect our parks and open space locally, and work regionally to clean up the Sound and address climate change.
TRANSPORTATION—Cascade Bicycle Club, Allied Arts, and other transportation leaders endorse my campaign because I will make certain that transportation decisions improve safety, mobility, and provide alternatives to single occupancy cars.
SCHOOLS—Civic and education leaders have endorsed me because I will continue to rally citywide support for strong neighborhood public schools.
PUBLIC SAFETY—Seattle’s firefighters and police officers have endorsed me, recognizing the need for stronger leadership on public safety, including hiring more police and ensuring accountability and transparency.
Tim Burgess: The Strongest, Most Diverse Endorsements
The ONLY candidate for City Council rated “OUTSTANDING” by the Municipal League, I am proud to have the endorsements of Sierra Club, Washington Conservation Voters, Cascade Bicycle Club, and our city’s police and firefighters.
Other selected endorsements: State Reps. Joe McDermott, Jim McIntire; Senator Erik Poulsen; former Mayors Charles Royer, Paul Schell; former Councilmember Tina Podlodowski; Judy Runstad; Tim Bradbury; 37th LD Chair Rob Holland; 34th, 46th District Democrats; more at timburgess2007.com.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 7 - Nonpartisan
David Della
P. O. Box 22088
Seattle, WA 98122-0088
(206) 257-0730
david@daviddella.com
www.daviddella.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of David Della
“David Della represents Seattle’s core values. He has fought for transportation options that are affordable and his work on pedestrian safety measures will make it safer for people to walk or bike throughout the city.” –Governor Christine Gregoire
Improving Our Transportation System
Investing In Seattle’s Future
“As the father of three children, I appreciate that David kept his commitment to our kids: sponsoring the largest Families and Education Levy in Seattle’s history, supporting school health clinics and voting against cuts for school nurses.”—Governor Gary Locke
Protecting Our Wallets
“The reduction of City Light rates and the elimination of $57 million in debt is an impressive record. David Della merits a second term.”—former Mayor Norm Rice
Standing Up For Our Values
“David has consistently stood up for marriage equality and the rights of the LGBT community. He has a 30-year record fighting for social justice and we can count on him to oppose discrimination in any form.”—State Senator Ed Murray
“David voted for public safety and public trust in law enforcement, adding 63 new officers while increasing police accountability measures.”—Council President Nick Licata
Endorsed
King County Democrats; King County Labor Council; Seattle Police Management Association; The Alki Foundation; 11th, 37th, 46th District Democrats; Governors Christine Gregoire, Gary Locke and Mike Lowry; County Executive Ron Sims; County Councilmembers Larry Gossett and Bob Ferguson; former Mayors Norm Rice and Wes Uhlman; Councilmembers Jan Drago, Richard McIver, Richard Conlin, and Jean Godden; State Senators Ed Murray, Margarita Prentice, Adam Kline, Erik Poulsen; State Representatives Frank Chopp, Helen Sommers, Mary Lou Dickerson, Phyllis Kenney, Eileen Cody, Sharon Tomiko Santos, Eric Pettigrew, Zack Hudgins and Bob Hasegawa
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 9 - Nonpartisan
Sally J. Clark
(206) 234-8303
(206) 282-2704 Fax
info@electsallyclark.com
www.electsallyclark.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Sally J. Clark
Re-Elect Sally Clark
It is an honor to serve you on the City Council. Every day I work hard to listen to your concerns and take real action on your priorities. I take my position as a steward of Seattle’s quality of life and its future to heart.
We all see change around us in our neighborhoods. Whatever that change might be, it should add to our quality of life and be something we’re proud of when we look back years from now.
As Chair of the Economic Development and Neighborhoods Committee I’ve embarked on a critical review of neighborhood plans to make sure that that Seattle just doesn’t grow, but we grow in a way that protects—even enhances—our quality of life. My goal is to be a voice for common sense decision-making and help unify our city around a vision of neighborhoods that are safe, affordable and environmentally sustainable. I respond to citizen concerns with hands-on leadership.
Safe Neighborhoods
To me, Seattle’s many neighborhoods are its strength. But too many people tell me they feel unsafe. I worked hard last year to add more police officers in our neighborhoods. I voted to add officers and I’m committed to funding new patrol officers over the coming years. It’s better for our safety and for theirs.
Affordable Housing and a Diverse Economy
We must create and protect housing for low-income and working people in our city. However, affordable housing is only one piece of the answer. I’m dedicated to maintaining middle-income families in Seattle. That’s why I am a leader on the Council for creating and sustaining living wage jobs in Seattle—and training a workforce to fill them.
Parks and Open Space and Sustainable Growth
As Seattle’s population grows, we must protect our neighborhood character and safeguard our natural environment. I am a strong advocate for neighborhood- level planning, “green building” standards, and investments in our parks and green belts. We live in the Emerald City. Let’s keep it that way!
Efficient Transportation and Transit
I support extending light rail to Northgate, building a real streetcar network and increasing bus service. I am committed to a 520 bridge replacement solution that moves people and goods without devastating neighborhoods and Union Bay.
With your vote, I’ll continue to work hard, listen, be responsive, and accountable.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Council Position 9 - Nonpartisan
Judy Fenton
P.O. Box 27055
Seattle, WA 98165-1455
(206) 368-2689
judy@judy-4-seattle.com
www.judy-4-seattle.com
Video Voters' Guide
Statement of Judy Fenton
I want to prioritize spending in order to pay for basic city services and infrastructure maintenance without adding new levies and taxes. Audits to eliminate duplication of effort and waste, and more competitive contracting can help stretch our tax dollars.
> We need to hire more police to crack down on drug dealing and violence. We have the same number of officers as two decades ago. An effective police force lays the foundation for economic strength and a stable society.
> A large backlog of road maintenance will require tax dollars.
> Because Seattle needs a sound tax base, business should not be over-taxed.
I want to provide new leadership to resolve problems.
> Public Art: Parents and teachers work hard to instill safe boundaries for our children in order to protect them from predators. The new waterfront naked-man-and-boy statue blurs and confuses those boundaries.
> Retrofitting the Viaduct is an efficient, economical, realistic solution. We have seen a successful I-5 Retrofit with minimal traffic disruption. (A Viaduct retrofit would take longer, but have minimal traffic disruption.) The current City Council recently voted to fund a study to destroy our Viaduct. They want to put the vehicles on the streets of downtown Seattle. Reality check: Our Viaduct moves 115,000 cars, buses and trucks daily. It raises traffic above the ground level, making the waterfront friendly to tourism and local traffic. What will happen to downtown traffic if we add 115,000 vehicles to the surface streets? Will business want to stay here? The State gas tax money will pay the cost, up to $2.5 billion to repair or replace the Viaduct ONLY on the condition that no capacity is lost. A Retrofit, costing only $1.3 billion or less, would last 50 years.
> Licensing night clubs would give the city the tools needed to encourage problem clubs to moderate their impact on neighborhoods.
> In our twenty-first century economy, let’s build sidewalks along bus routes and near schools.
> CONSERVE OUR TAX DOLLARS: There’s an old saying: “Necessity is the mother of invention.” I want to look for creative ways to stretch the tax dollars we already have. I want to seek effective, realistic solutions to issues we face.
A vote for Judy Fenton is a vote for a fresh perspective on the City Council.
Endorsed by: Citizens’Alliance for Property Rights, Citizens for an Elevated Solution.
The candidate provided this statement and is solely responsible for its content.
Charter Amendment 17
Ballot Title
The city council has proposed to amend the city charter to add a preamble.
The amendment would add a preamble to the charter stating its purpose. That purpose is to protect and improve the health, safety, environment and general welfare of the people; enable city government to provide services and meet the people’s needs efficiently; allow equal and fair participation of all persons in city government; provide for an open, accountable, and ethical government and civil service; foster financial responsibility; promote prosperity; and meet the needs of a healthy growing city.
Should this charter amendment be approved?
Yes ........
No ........
Those in favor shall vote “Yes;” those opposed shall mark their ballots “No.”
Charter Amendment 17
City Attorney's Explanatory Statement
1. The proposal
This amendment would add a preamble to the City Charter.
2. The Charter as it presently exists
The Charter currently does not contain a preamble. A preamble is a preliminary statement setting out general principles and explaining the purpose of the Charter, and can guide the interpretation of the Charter.
3. The effect of the amendment if approved
A preamble would be added to the Charter. The preamble would state that the Charter’s purpose is to protect and improve the health, safety, environment and general welfare of the people; enable City government to provide services and meet the people’s needs efficiently; allow equal and fair participation of all persons in City government; provide for an open, accountable, and ethical government and civil service; foster financial responsibility; promote prosperity; and meet the needs of a healthy, growing City.
The above text is an exact reproduction of the text submitted by the City Attorney. The Ethics and Elections Commission has no editorial authority.
Charter Amendment 17
Complete Text
Resolution No. 30992
A RESOLUTION submitting a proposition to the qualified electors of the City, at an election to be held on November 6, 2007, to add a preamble to the Charter of the City of Seattle; calling on the City Clerk to certify the proposed amendment to the Director of the Department of Records and Elections of King County and requesting and directing such Director to call a special election in conjunction with the November 6, 2007 general election and submit the proposition to City voters; and providing for the publication of such proposed amendment.
WHEREAS, the current Charter of the City of Seattle, established March 12, 1946, is the City’s “constitution,” and sets out general provisions concerning the City’s powers and operation; and
WHEREAS, unlike the Charter of the State of Washington and the United States Constitution, the Charter of the City of Seattle has no preamble; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of a preamble is to establish a general set of principles for the purposes, organization, and affairs of the City of Seattle; and
WHEREAS, the City of Seattle, like any other municipality or organization, can benefit from recognizing a common set of principles and values; NOW THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEATTLE, THE MAYOR CONCURRING, THAT:
Section 1: Subject to the approval of a proposition by a majority of the qualified electors casting votes thereon, the Charter of the City of Seattle is amended to add prior to Article I:
“PREAMBLE
Under authority conferred by the Constitution of the State of Washington, the People of the City of Seattle enact this Charter as the Law of the City for the purpose of protecting and enhancing the health, safety, environment, and general welfare of the people; to enable municipal government to provide services and meet the needs of the people efficiently; to allow fair and equitable participation of all persons in the affairs of the City; to provide for transparency, accountability, and ethics in governance and civil service; to foster fiscal responsibility; to promote prosperity and to meet the broad needs for a healthy, growing City.”
Section 2. The King County Director of Records and Elections, as ex officio supervisor of elections, is hereby requested to call a special election and is directed to submit the charter amendment proposed herein to the qualified electors of the City at the election on November 6, 2007.
Section 3. The City Clerk shall certify to the Director of the Department of Records and Elections of King County as Supervisor of Elections the charter amendment proposed herein in the form of a ballot title prepared by the City Attorney pursuant to RCW 29A.36.071, and shall certify a copy of the proposed Charter amendment, and the same shall be published by the City Clerk in accordance with state law.
Charter Amendment 17
Statement For and Rebuttal
Statement For Charter Amendment No. 17
The City Charter establishes the organization of city government and the general provisions concerning the city’s powers and operations. The current Charter was ratified by Seattle voters in 1946 and has been amended many times.
Unlike the constitutions of the State of Washington and the United States, the City’s Charter lacks a Preamble. The proposed amendment adds a Preamble to the City Charter. The Preamble explains the basic purpose of city government, which is to protect and enhance the health, safety, environment, and general welfare of the people it was organized to serve. The Preamble also promotes ethics, financial responsibility, and citizen participation in government. The Preamble benefits the people of Seattle by providing a clear statement of the purposes, values, and functions of city government. Voter approval is required any time the Charter is amended.
The Charter amendment adding this Preamble has been endorsed by the Seattle Community Council Federation. Copies of all the City’s charters and charter revisions are available in both the Seattle Municipal Archives and City Clerk’s Office:
http://www.seattle.gov/leg/clerk/clerk.htm
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Peter Steinbrueck, Seattle City Councilmember
Rebuttal to Statement For
Charter Amendment No. 17
Our Constitution is that of the State of Washington, and its preamble ours. Article I of the City Charter adequately describes what the document does and does not do. A set of guiding principles might well be added to Article I, but not in the form of a pre-amble containing enactment language.
The proposed preamble has little connection to existing governmental structure (e.g., what is it worth to promote the concept of the “health” of the city when the Department of Health has long been dissolved? Et cetera, et cetera…)
Honorable as the intent may be, there are also arguably more accessible and effective ways in which to articulate, and express a collective mission or goal statement for Seattle—rather than to bury it in the Charter.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Christal Wood
The committees provided these statements and are solely responsible for their content.
Charter Amendment 17
Statement Against and Rebuttal
Statement Against Charter Amendment No. 17
It ain’t broke, and don’t need fixin’. The City of Seattle, as currently incorporated, has survived 137 years without a preamble to its Charter. It is not necessary to ratify one now. Charters do not require a preamble, especially Seattle’s Charter, which was not the founding document of Seattle, but rather an acknowledgement of a city already in existence. The pre-ambling sentiments of the original 15 freeholders are lost to time. Any recreation thereof would be proprietary, and likely inaccurate.
The practical effect of adding a pre-amble now would be minimal. Few if any legal cases or civil rights are lost or won on the basis of a preamble. Addition of a preamble at this point in Seattle history is of higher political value than public.
The proposed preamble is four times longer than that of the State Constitution, and likely as contentious. For all that a preamble does usually symbolize, the proposed text itself is relatively uninspiring, and diluted, for it tries to say too much. Concepts not implied or enumerated elsewhere in the Charter, such as “meeting needs” and “prosperity” or “growth,” are both too ambiguous and contentious in today’s terms.
Public notice has not been sufficient. If we are to add a preamble to the charter for as diverse and culturally rich city as ours, it should be captured through a more inclusive convention process. This amendment was resurrected at the last minute by a Council Committee, with little to no current public input on record (Although this text was distributed to organizations and community members last year, it was not an agenda item for this year’s committee on Charter amendments.) Such limited Council and public participation is an inappropriate foundation for identifying, and solidifying the very lens through which we view and interpret the City’s Charter document.
In order to prevent the too few from re-writing history, and our future, Amendment #17 must be rejected.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Christal Wood
Rebuttal to Statement Against
Charter Amendment No. 17
No Rebuttal Submitted
The committees provided these statements and are solely responsible for their content.
Charter Amendment 18
Ballot Title
The city council has proposed an amendment to Article V, Section 6 of the city charter concerning the mayor’s annual messages to the city council.
The amendment would change the charter section concerning the mayor’s annual State-of-the-City message to the city council. The charter now requires one such message annually, in June. The amendment would require the mayor to present this message in February instead. It would also require the mayor to present a second annual message to the council when the mayor presents a proposed budget.
Should this charter amendment be approved?
Yes ........
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Charter Amendment 18
City Attorney's Explanatory Statement
1. The proposal
This amendment would change the City Charter provision concerning the Mayor’s annual messages to the City Council.
2. The Charter as it presently exists
Article V, Section 6 of the Charter currently requires the Mayor to deliver a message to the City Council at the third Council meeting in June. In this message, the Mayor is to describe the condition of the City, and make any recommendations the Mayor believes are proper. This is commonly known as the Mayor’s State-of-the-City message. The Charter also allows the Mayor to deliver special messages to the Council at any time, as the Mayor sees fit.
3. The effect of the amendment if approved
The Charter would be amended to require the Mayor to deliver two messages to the Council each year. The State-of-the-City message would still be required, but would be delivered in February rather than June. A second message would be required when the Mayor presented his or her proposed budget. In this message, the Mayor would deliver his or her recommendation for the adoption of the budget. The Mayor would still be allowed to deliver special messages to the Council at any time, as the Mayor saw fit.
The above text is an exact reproduction of the text submitted by the City Attorney. The Ethics and Elections Commission has no editorial authority.
Charter Amendment 18
Complete Text
Resolution No. 30987
A RESOLUTION submitting a proposition to the qualified electors of the City, at an election to be held on November 6, 2007, to amend Section 6 of Article V of the Charter of the City of Seattle to change the provisions for the Mayor’s annual messages to the City Council; calling on the City Clerk to certify the proposed amendment to the Director of the Department of Records and Elections of King County and requesting and directing such Director to call a special election in conjunction with the November 6, 2007 general election and submit the proposition to City voters; and providing for the publication of such proposed amendment.
WHEREAS, Section 6 of Article V of the City Charter currently specifies that it is the duty of the Mayor to deliver a message to the City Council each year at the third Council meeting in June; and
WHEREAS, Section 6 of Article V of the City Charter currently specifies that this June message be a statement of the conditions and affairs of the City; and
WHEREAS, the message is traditionally referred to as the “State of the City Address”; and
WHEREAS, in recent years, Mayors have traditionally appeared before the Council to deliver the “State of the City Address”; and
WHEREAS, since 1992, Mayors have elected to deliver this State of the City Address to the Council at a regular Council meeting during the first quarter of the year, and not June as specified in the Charter; and
WHEREAS, it has become common practice for the Mayor to appear before the Council annually at a regular Council meeting in September to present his or her proposed budget for the City for the coming year; and
WHEREAS, this second address to the Council is traditionally referred to as the “Budget Address”; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to continue the practice of receiving these two annual addresses from the Mayor at regular Full Council public meetings in February and September; NOW THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEATTLE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Subject to the approval of a proposition by a majority of the qualified electors casting votes thereon, Section 6 of Article V of the Charter of the City of Seattle is amended as follows:
ARTICLE V. Executive Department
* * *
Sec. 6. ANNUAL MESSAGES; SPECIAL MESSAGES:
A. It shall be the duty of the Mayor annually at the third
regular meeting of the City Council in JuneCity
B. It shall be the duty of the Mayor annually at a regular City Council meeting, at the time he or she presents his or her proposed budget, to communicate by message to the Council his or her recommendation for the adoption of such budget; and
C. t
* * *
Section 2. The King County Director of Records and Elections, as ex officio supervisor of elections, is hereby requested to call a special election and is directed to submit the charter amendment proposed herein to the qualified electors of the City at the election on November 6, 2007.
Section 3. The City Clerk shall certify to the Director of the Department of Records and Elections of King County as Supervisor of Elections the charter amendment proposed herein in the form of a ballot title prepared by the City Attorney pursuant to RCW 29A.36.071, and shall certify a copy of the proposed Charter amendment, and the same shall be published by the City Clerk in accordance with state law.
Charter Amendment 18
Statement For and Rebuttal
Statement For Charter Amendment No. 18
This Amendment updates the City Charter to conform the City’s traditional practice of the Mayor delivering a state of the city message to the City Council at the beginning of the calendar year and a budget address in the fall. The current charter language has the state of the city address being given in mid-June.
Consequently, this amendment makes it clear that City Council should continue the practice of receiving both the state of the city address and the budget address annually from the Mayor at regular Full Council meetings where there is maximum public exposure.
Like the US Congress’ reception of the State of the Union Address, the City Council should expect the Mayor to communicate the state of the city directly to another branch of government which represents all citizens, not a private club with limited public access.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Nick Licata, Seattle City Councilmember
Rebuttal to Statement For
Charter Amendment No. 18
Concerns about an open budgeting process are well founded. However, this amendment does nothing to address them. Seattle is structured in a different way than the Federal government. In an elegant balance of leadership, the Mayor and the Council (and the people!) share legislative power. As Chief Officer of the “Executive Department,” the Mayor has independent duties, and may direct subordinate City officers (and occasionally commandeer the police), but the Charter expressly excludes chartered officers and their duties from the Mayor’s supervisory authority [Article V, §2].
Thus, the Mayor rightfully delivers the “State of the City” address in June, as currently written. However, clarity, accountability and public access to the budgeting process is to be negotiated between the Council, the Mayor, and the Department of Finance. While “traditional practice” may have deviated, rejection of this amendment will help preserve the original intent of the Charter on this point.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Christal Wood
The committees provided these statements and are solely responsible for their content.
Charter Amendment 18
Statement Against and Rebuttal
Statement Against Charter Amendment No. 18
Proposed Charter Amendment #18 is more than a schedule adjustment. It will alter the windows of public notice on important City matters and budgeting. It also will arguably add new authority to the office of Mayor.
As it exists, Article V, Section 6 of Seattle’s Charter articulates the Mayor’s duty to formally present to the Council on the affairs of the City each June. At that time, s/he is to recommend measures s/he deems “expedient and proper.”
Amendment #18 will bifurcate the “State of the City Address” and create by implication an added authority over submission of the budget. This is not expressly granted within the charter; and is arguably not intended to be the purview of the Mayor, but rather the Director of Finance, [Art. VIII, § 1]. Therefore, passing this amendment would further erode the balance of authorities between the department heads and the legislative branch.
The scope and timing of the “State of the City” address is optimal as written. June is the half-way point of the calendar year, and close of the fiscal year for the State, as well as the City’s various service entities and contracts. It is an ideal vantage-point from which to assess and present analysis of the economic status of City operations, services and contractual/ fiscal relationships.
Moving the “state of the city” address to February will bring it out of alignment with various operation cycles. In-coming Mayors will have one month instead of six from inauguration to prepare. So, too, creating/officiating an additional “budget address,” in September will place it late for the fiscal year, and afford both government and citizenry less time to deliberate and respond, with reference to the following calendar year.
The Mayor should be made to comply with this distinct duty as it presently exists. Just because it has become the practice of recent mayors to stagger this process for their convenience does not mean that the Council, through the voters, must encode its acquiescence–thereby expanding the authority of the Mayor in this manner. Existing language provides the Mayor the right to “special communication” when “useful and proper.” This is sufficient for the purpose of this Charter Section.
In order to preserve the balance of City governmental powers, and maximize the efficiency and benefit of public notice of City affairs–Proposed Charter Amendment #18 must be rejected.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Christal Wood
Rebuttal to Statement Against
Charter Amendment No. 18
Charter Amendment #18 strengthens the Mayor’s responsibility to the public and the Council by requiring timely and routine public notice and conveyance of important City matters and budgeting information.
With Charter Amendment #18 there will still be one “State of the City Address” and, as there has been in the past, a separate “Budget Address to the City”. They serve different purposes and they have always been given at separate times.
Delivering the “State of the City Address” at the beginning of the year was first initiated by former Mayor Norm Rice and has been adopted by every Mayor since because it is more practical and relevant than giving such an address when the year is half over. The out-dated June delivery in the Charter reflected a prior election cycle that has not been used for close to forty years.
Make city government responsible and relevant – vote for Amendment #18.
STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY: Nick Licata, Seattle City Councilmember
The committees provided these statements and are solely responsible for their content.
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