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Kitsap County AuditorElections Division614 Division Street, MS-31Port Orchard, WA 98366-4687
NON PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE
PAIDKITSAP COUNTY
ECRWSSRESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
Kitsap CountyOffi cial Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Published by the Offi ce of the Kitsap County Auditor
Dear Kitsap County Voters:
This election will not only give you a say in who becomes our next president, but there are also a host of other important races and issues to be decided.
In Washington we will elect a U.S. Senator, members of the U.S. House of Representatives, our governor and several state executives, at least five of whom will be brand new to the job. There are also nine state measures and two local measures on this ballot.
Additionally, in Kitsap County we will have a say in choosing seven state legislators, two county commissioners, a Kitsap County Superior Court Judge and a public utility commissioner.
This Local Voters’ Pamphlet offers you information on local measures and statements by local candidates. It also gives you information about where and when you can return your ballot, accessible voting options and Election Day Vote Centers. There is contact information in case you have additional questions about this year’s General Election.
The state is also publishing a Voters’ Pamphlet where you can find statements about the statewide initiatives, federal candidates, state executives, judges and legislators.
Ballots for this election will mail the same day as this pamphlet. If you do not receive your ballot by October 27, please contact the Elections Office.
The Auditor’s Office is committed to serving all citizens who wish to have a say in how our nation is governed. Please exercise your right to vote and return your ballot before 8 p.m., November 8th.
Sincerely,
Dolores Gilmore Kitsap County Auditor
Ballots mailed by October 21
Primary Local Voters’ Pamphlet – November 8, 2016
Pamphlet Contents Contact InformationVoter Information ..........................................................2Political Party Information .............................................2Register to Vote ........................................................... 324-Hour Ballot Drop Boxes .......................................... 3Vote Centers and Accessible Voting .............................4Mobile Voting Locations ...............................................4Mark and Return Your Ballot ....................................... 5Sample Ballot ............................................................6-7Candidate Statements .............................................. 8-9Ballot Measures .....................................................10-11
About the Cover:
The rainbow’s end in Bremerton, viewed from Port Orchard.
Kitsap County Auditor – Elections Divisionwww.kitsapgov.com/aud/elections.htm [email protected]
PhoneOffice: (360) 337-7128Fax: (360) 337-5769
Office Hours8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday
Additional Sources of Information
• www.facebook.com/kitsapcountyauditor• www.twitter.com/kitsapauditor• www.youtube.com/user/KitsapAuditor• Washington Secretary of State
www.sos.wa.gov/elections• Federal Voting Assistance Program
www.fvap.gov
Mailing Address614 Division St, MS-31 Port Orchard, WA 98366
Physical Address619 Division St Port Orchard, WA 98366
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Mobile Voting Locations
Kitsap County Elections transports Accessible Voting Units and ballot drop boxes to locations throughout the county.Locations are chosen where voters with disabilities, senior
citizens and others will benefit from the use of an on-site Accessible Voting Unit, printable ballot, or ballot drop box.
Vote Centers and Accessible Voting
Federal law requires jurisdictions to provide vote centers with certified accessible voting devices which enable voters with disabilities to cast their ballots independently and in private.Accessible Voting Units provide all contests in audio and high-contrast text formats and are available beginning 18 days prior to the General Election.
Before Election DayOctober 21 through November 7 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through FridayKitsap County Auditor’s Office 619 Division St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Election Day Only Tuesday, November 8 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Kitsap County Administration Building 619 Division St, Port Orchard, WA 98366Poulsbo Fire Station 911 NE Liberty Rd, Poulsbo, WA 98370
Online Ballot AccessKitsap County Elections provides an accessible online ballot. The online ballot, specific to each voter, also allows access the online Local Voters’ Pamphlet. The ballot is compatible with commonly used accessibility software such as screen readers and screen magnifiers, and allows for navigation without the use of a mouse and without having to see the cursor on the screen. All candidate video statements are close captioned.Through Online Ballot Access, you may verify that Kitsap County Elections has received your ballot, using the Ballot Tracker feature. Online Ballot Access is available beginning 18 days prior to the General Election at: wa.liveballot.com/kitsap.
Accessible Voting and Ballot Drop Box Locations Date Start Time End Time Location
Monday October 24 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. Olympic College Way NW, Poulsbo, 1000 Olympic College Way NW, Poulsbo
98370
Tuesday October 25
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Clearbrook Inn, 12295 NW Schold Place, Silverdale 98383
1:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. Crista Shores, 1600 NW Crista Shores Lane, Silverdale 98383
Wednesday October 26
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Bay Pointe, 966 Oyster Bay Court, Bremerton 98312
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Washington Veterans Home (Retsil), 1141 Beach Dr E, Port Orchard 98366
Thursday October 27
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Madison Ave Retirement Center, 285 Madison Ave S, Bainbridge Island 98110
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Village Green Senior Apartments, 26150 Dulay Rd NE, Kingston 98346
Friday October 28
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Stafford Suites, 1761 Pottery Ave, Port Orchard 98366
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Willows Retirement Living Community, 3201 Pine Rd, Bremerton 98310
Saturday October 29 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Kitsap Regional Library Bainbridge Island
1270 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island 98110
Monday October 31
9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Canterbury Manor, 703 Callahan Dr, Bremerton 98310
2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Liberty Shores, 19360 Viking Ave NW, Poulsbo 98370
Tuesday November 1 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Kitsap Regional Library Poulsbo, 700 NE Lincoln Rd, Poulsbo 98370
Wednesday November 2 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Kitsap Regional Library Sylvan Way, 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton 98310
Thursday November 3
8:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Bremerton Salvation Army, 832 6th Street, Bremerton 98337
12:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. Olympic College Bremerton, 1600 Chester Ave, Bremerton 98337
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Major Political PartiesA political party qualifies as a “major” political party when it receives at least 5 percent of the total votes cast in any statewide office contest at the preceding state General Election in an even-numbered year. In 2016 Washington state has two major political parties: Democratic and Republican.
Minor Political PartiesA “minor” political party is any political party in which no candi-date for statewide office received at least 5 percent of the total votes cast at the preceding General Election during an even-numbered year.
Candidates for Partisan OfficeA candidate may state on the ballot a political party that he or she prefers.A candidate may choose to not state a party preference.A candidate’s party preference does not imply that the candidate is nominated or endorsed by the party or that the party approves of or associates with that candidate.
Contributions to Candidates and Political Committees
• Contribution Limits – State law sets contribution limits on donations to legislative, judicial and county candidates as well as bona fide political party and caucus political committees.
• Anyone who donates more than $25 in monetary and in-kind contributions must be identified by name and full address. For donations of more than $100 – occupation, employer name, city and state of his/her employer are also required.
• For a list of the people and organizations that donated to state and local candidates and ballot measure campaigns, visit www.pdc.wa.gov.
Public Disclosure Commission for Washington State www.pdc.wa.gov, (360) 753-1111, (877) 601-2828.
Voter Information
State and Federal Candidates/MeasuresThe Secretary of State’s Office will publish a voters’ pamphlet that includes all federal and state candidates, as well as all statewide measures. The state pamphlet will be delivered by the post office to all households in Kitsap County and is also available online at: www.vote.wa.gov.
General Election Ballot Statewide measures will appear first on the ballot followed by countywide measures, then federal, state, county, county judicial, and public utility district. Local measures appear after offices for each district. If a Primary Election was held, the two candidates that received the most votes and received at least 1 percent of the votes cast for that office appear on the General Election ballot. The candidate that received the most votes in the Primary is listed first. Candidates that did not appear in the Primary are listed in the order determined by lottery draw.
Electoral CollegeThe vote for President and Vice President on the General Election ballot is actually a vote for electors who will represent the state in the Electoral College.
Each state gets a number of electors equal to the number of representatives they have in Congress. Washington has 12 electoral votes out of 538 nationwide. Washington is one of 48 states that uses a “winner-take-all” system to allocate electors.
The party of the presidential candidate who receives the most votes in Washington will select the 12 electors to the Electoral College, and they will cast their votes in Olympia on December 19th. Other states’ electors will meet and vote on the same day.
Our current electoral college process was last amended in 1804. In 1824, 1876, 1888 and 2000 the presidential candidate who received the most votes nationwide did not become president.
Participating JurisdictionsDistricts participating in this Local Voters’ Pamphlet are: Kitsap County, Kitsap County Superior Court, Kitsap Public Utility District No. 1, Kitsap Transit and the Port of Poulsbo.
Military, Overseas and Early BallotsIf you are a military or overseas voter or if you believe your ballot will not be received in time to vote, you may request to receive your ballot by email or request an early ballot up to 90 days before an election. Early ballots list only the contests known at the time of the request. To request an email ballot or early ballot, visit: www.kitsapgov.com/aud/elections.htm or con-tact Kitsap County Elections. Additional information for military and overseas voters is available from the Federal Voting Assistance Program at: www.fvap.gov.
Write-Ins – Which Votes Can Be CountedGeneral Election write-in votes can only be counted if either:
• The total number of write-in, overvotes and undervotes could affect the outcome of the contest, or;
• A manual recount is conducted, or; • The candidate filed a declaration of Write-in Candidacy.
Candidate and Committee StatementsThe Local Voters’ Pamphlet includes statements submitted by candidates running for offices and committees supporting or opposing ballot measures. Statements printed in this pamphlet are the opinions of the authors. Kitsap County Elections is not responsible for the content of statements or their factual and grammatical accuracy.
Your Right to PrivacyEvery voter has the right to vote his or her ballot in secret. A person voting when he or she is not qualified, or falsely signing the Voter Declaration, is a felony punishable by up to five years of imprisonment or a maximum fine of $10,000, or both imprisonment and fine.
Questions or Need a Replacement Ballot?If you have not received your ballot by October 27, or if your ballot is damaged or lost, you may request a replacement ballot by contacting Kitsap County Elections.
Political Party Information
Democratic PartyWashington State615 2nd Ave, Suite 580 Seattle, WA 98104(206) 583-0664www.wa-democrats.org/contactwww.wa-democrats.orgKitsap County Democratic Central Committee(360) [email protected]
Republican PartyWashington State11811 NE First St., Suite A306Bellevue, WA 98005(425) [email protected] County Republican Party [email protected] www.kitsaprepublicans.com
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Register to Vote
Who May VoteTo be eligible to vote, one must register and be:
• A citizen of the United States.• A legal resident of Washington state at least 30 days
before Election Day. • At least 18 years old by Election Day.• Not disqualified from voting due to a court order.• Not under Department of Corrections supervision for a
Washington felony conviction.
How to Register• Online at www.myvote.wa.gov.• Complete a mail-in registration form available at libraries,
city halls, public schools, fire district offices and at the County Auditor’s Office.
• When you renew your driver’s license.
When to RegisterIndividuals may register to vote at any time. The deadlines to vote in the November 8 General Election are:
• October 10: Deadline for mail and online voter registrations, updates and changes.
• October 31: In-person voter registration deadline. Citizens not currently registered in Washington state may register until eight days prior to an election by appearing in person at the County Auditor’s Office.
Update Your Voter Record if You MoveIf you are already registered to vote in Kitsap County, you may update your voter record online at: www.myvote.wa.gov, or by contacting Kitsap County Elections. A new voter registration card will be mailed after your address change is processed. New address changes cannot be processed during an election cycle, which begins 29 days before Election Day and ends upon certification.
Name ChangeIf you have legally changed your name, you must complete a new voter registration application. Your new signature is used to validate your ballot.
To Cancel Your Voter RegistrationYou may provide a signed request to cancel your registration. In the case of a deceased voter, a family member may provide written and signed authorization to request cancellation.
24-Hour Ballot Drop Boxes
A voter who does not wish to return a ballot by mail may use a ballot drop box. Ballot drop boxes provide a safe, secure way for voters to deposit their ballots postage free.
There are nine, 24-hour ballot drop boxes located throughout the county. Ballot drop boxes are available 24-hours a day beginning October 21 until 8 p.m. on Election Day.
NORTH
Bainbridge Island Bainbridge Island School District 8489 Madison Ave NE Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 Located near the west parking lot. Kingston North Kitsap Fire & Rescue 26642 Miller Bay Rd NE Kingston, WA 98346 Poulsbo Poulsbo Fire Station 911 NE Liberty Rd Poulsbo, WA 98370
CENTRAL Silverdale C.K. School Dist. Admin. Bldg. (Jenne-Wright Building) 9210 Silverdale Way NW Silverdale, WA 98383 Located in the rear/north parking lot. East Bremerton Kitsap Regional Library, Sylvan Way 1301 Sylvan Way Bremerton, WA 98310 West Bremerton Norm Dicks Government Center 345 6th St Bremerton, WA 98337 Located in the upper parking lot.
SOUTH
Port Orchard Kitsap County Auditor’s Office 619 Division St Port Orchard, WA 98366 Located near the corner of Division St. and Cline Ave. East South Kitsap SKFR Station 8 1974 Fircrest Drive SE Port Orchard, WA 98366 West South Kitsap SKFR Station 17 7990 McCormick Woods Drive SW Port Orchard, WA 98367
xBallot Marking Tips and RemindersBallot marking errors require additional staff review, which slows down ballot processing. Help us improve efficiency by avoiding these common errors:
Do not circle:
Do not check:
Do not X:
Do not use pencil:
No single lines:5
Mark and Return Your Ballot
How to voteUse a dark blue or black ink pen to completely fill in the box to the left of your choice. Do not use pencil. Mark one choice in each contest. If you mark more than one choice, no votes will be counted for that contest.
SecurePlace the voted ballot in the white secrecy sleeve.Place the white secrecy sleeve inside the lavender return envelope.
Sign, Date and SealRead, sign and date the Voter Declaration on the lavender return envelope.
• The lavender return envelope must be signed by you in order for your ballot to be counted.
• Sign your name in dark ink.• Seal the lavender return envelope.
MailMail your ballot early enough to ensure it is postmarked no later than Election Day, Nov. 8.
Ballot Drop BoxesTo save on postage, use one of our nine 24-hour ballot drop boxes listed on page 3.Ballot drop boxes close at 8 p.m. on Election Day.
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Sample Ballot
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Sample Ballot
Yes
No
8 The Auditor’s Office is not responsible for the content of statements or their factual and grammatical accuracy.
County Partisan Offices
Kitsap County Commissioner District 1 – 4-year term
Kitsap County Commissioner District 2 – 4-year term
Robert (Rob) Gelder (Prefers Democratic Party)Phone: (360) 710-2606 Email: [email protected] Website: www.robertgelder.comElected Experience: Served as County Commissioner since March 2011.
Professional Experience: Martha & Mary from 2004 to 2011. Over twenty years experience in health/human services with over a decade in senior management/leadership. Served on
the Kitsap Citizen’s Budget Advisory Committee.
Education: BA in Political Science from University of Rochester.
Community Service: Poulsbo Rotary Club for 12 years; 2005 Community Builder Award from the Poulsbo Chamber; first class of 40 Under Forty for Kitsap. Rob is actively involved in our community and brings a common sense, balanced approach to the Board.
Statement: I am honored to serve our great county. As Commissioner, I listen to and learn from all citizens.
In my tenure, I worked to improve the quality of life across Kitsap County. A few recent accomplishments: A Shoreline Management Program that provides balance between property rights and environmental protections; Public open space with over 1,000 new acres and 1.5 miles of shoreline that will protect our environment and support a tourism economy; A Forest Stewardship Policy that focuses on restorative thinning in parks, while generating non-tax revenues for maintenance; A balanced budget to ensure the county was restored to solid financial footing - county offices are open 5 days per week, we’ve reinstated lost positions in the Sheriff’s Department; A 1/10th of 1% sales tax to support mental health and substance abuse programs; Completion of the Kingston Village Green Community Center.
Over the next four years, I want to focus on: continued permit process streamlining without losing sight of the people we serve; support job growth; improve transportation infrastructure; expand affordable housing; and help make Kitsap a county in which to live, work and play.
I ask for your vote to continue as your County Commissioner.
Charlotte Garrido (Prefers Democratic Party)Phone: (253) 857-6723 Email: [email protected] Website: www.charlottegarrido.com Elected Experience: Kitsap county commissioner, parks commissioner, and a precinct committee officer in Kitsap County
Professional Experience: Includes teaching and small business ownership; promoting better transportation,
international trade and local university options; leadership in American Planning Association, Washington Boundary Review Board Association.
Education: BA in sociology and Master’s and PhD degrees in urban design and planning
Community Service: Donated countless hours for more than three decades. I created new organizations when needed (like the South Kitsap Community Council and co-founder of the Port Orchard farmers’ market), and worked with community groups to improve job opportunities, human services, water quality, and land use.
Statement: Kitsap County is a wonderful place to live, work and play. Our future depends on a strong economy, a healthy environment and local people working together. As your county commissioner these are my priorities! I champion win-win solutions every day.
During the economic downturn I worked diligently to protect vital core services for Kitsap County taxpayers as the county budget, like your family budget, decreased. While our fiscal position is more stable now, there is still much to do.
I respectfully ask for your vote. With your support I can continue working to balance county budgets, create the jobs we need, engage communities and maintain the special qualities of Kitsap County. Thank you.
Christopher J. Tibbs (Prefers Republican Party)Phone: (360) 850-8034 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tibbsforcommissioner.comElected Experience: Chairman, Kitsap County Republican Party (2012 – 2016); Executive Board Member, Washington State Republican Party (2012-2014); Precinct Committee Officer (2012 - 2014).
Professional Experience: Consultant and legislative lobbyist; small business owner. “I am pleased to endorse Chris for County Commissioner” --- John Spellman, former Governor
Education: Bainbridge High School, Olympic College.
Community Service: Led the local effort to secure $300,000 in funding to preserve and restore Bremerton’s historic USS Turner Joy (2016); Vice Chair, Kitsap County Budget Committee (2010). “Chris is very organized and action-oriented, which makes him an effective leader in listening and working for us!” --- Senator Jan Angel
Statement: Kitsap County deserves energetic leadership and fresh perspectives to bring our community together, strengthen our economy, and improve our quality of life. My record of accomplishments demonstrates that I have the knowledge, skills, and relationships to move Kitsap County forward.
My professional life is devoted to bringing people together to accomplish challenging goals. Successful collaborations with local leaders have earned me the respect and support of Democrats, Republicans and Independents. Our county’s first priority must be to strengthen job security and employment opportunities for working people and their families. I will work across the aisle with the community and key stakeholders to do just that.
Our quality of life matters! With my fiancée, Representative Michelle Caldier, I am committed to improve public safety, fix our broken roads, improve public transportation, and preserve our parks and open spaces, while we decrease unnecessary regulations.
Sound budgets and prudent policy-making are important, but steadfast representation of the people is essential. I am committed to being accessible, responsive and, most of all, accountable to you. You can count on me to be a strong advocate not only for South Kitsap, but also for our entire county. I respectfully ask for your vote!
The Auditor’s Office is not responsible for the content of statements or their factual and grammatical accuracy. 9
Kitsap County Public Utility District No. 1 (Nonpartisan)
Commissioner District 1 – 4-year term
John ArmstrongPhone: (360) 638-2298 Email: [email protected] Statement: Our Public Utility District is recognized statewide as an example of an outstanding, efficient and well run customer service utility. I am proud and honored to have been a part of that organization. During my tenure, we have grown and we are continually providing additional services to the citizens of Kitsap County.
I ask that you allow me the opportunity to continue providing my services to the community. My common sense approach to decision making requires me to weigh cost vs. benefits to reach a fair and balanced decision. This method of resource management has been gained through twenty six years of organizational management, twenty four years of serving as your PUD Commissioner and being a very active member of the PUD Board.
Thank you for your consideration.
Debra LesterPhone: (206) 588-9588 Email: [email protected] Website: www.DebraLester.netElected Experience: Bainbridge Island City Council Member (2010-2013), Bainbridge Island Mayor (2012), Housing Kitsap Board Member (2010-2013), Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council (KRCC), KRCC Transportation Policy Committee, and Puget Sound Regional Coordinating Council Transportation Policy Board
Other Experience: Manager and publisher of Art Access, a print and online magazine serving Washington and Oregon businesses
Education: Graduate of Washington University of St. Louis, Missouri; Fine Arts, BA
Community Service: Coordinating Puget Sound lobbying efforts in Olympia to keep ferry fares affordable and service dependable for Kitsap communities; promoting renewable energy and conservation; co-founder, Ferry Community Partnership; former board member, Community Energy Solutions
Statement: Working with fellow commissioners, my goal is to assure KPUD customers affordable and reliable utility services using a thorough process of rate setting, cost/benefit analysis, and budget reviews.
Having worked directly with many Kitsap County elected officials and tribal leaders, my focus is on building stronger alliances to carefully manage our water resources, treat wastewater so as to retain more freshwater resources in freshwater systems, and continue efforts to extend broadband telecommunications. Our communities become more resilient when our cities, tribes, public utility districts, and county work with each other. By working together we will create greater financial efficiencies for utility ratepayers. I will also be a tireless advocate for legislation and policies that benefit KPUD and its customers. Whether testifying in Olympia or attending county, tribal, or city meetings, my job will be to represent the interests of KPUD customers.
I support and will continue to encourage KPUD’s disaster preparedness efforts. Having a disaster plan, running disaster drills, and readying mobile/back up generators are key to providing continual service when hit by a natural disaster.
I will use my experiences and advocacy abilities to work for you, and ask for your vote.
Kitsap County Superior Court (Nonpartisan)
Dale A. MagnesonPhone: (360) 698-1688 Email: [email protected] Website: Magneson4Judge.orgLegal/Judicial Experience: Over 28 years Silverdale law office. Areas of practice in Kitsap County Superior Court: family law, landlord and tenant, probate, and civil lawsuits. Over 28 years in federal bankruptcy court
Other Professional Experience: Served in the military.Held a top secret cryptologic clearance. Worked at PSNS for 6
years as a Metals Inspector.
Education: Graduated with honors in Russian from the Defense Language Institute, Presidio of Monterey, California. Bachelor of Arts with honors from UW in Germanics. Juris Doctor from Brigham Young University
Community Service: Presidential appointment to local Selective Service System. Member of National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys and Kitsap County Bar Association
Statement: The Judge in Position 5 was appointed by the governor to fill a vacancy when the previous Judge retired. This fall is the time for the people of Kitsap County to elect the Judge they choose to serve in this position. I ask for your vote to select me Judge for Position 5 in Kitsap County Superior Court.
I was born, raised, and graduated from high school in Bremerton. Following military service and utilizing VA educational assistance, I concurrently worked the graveyard shift at PSNS while attending day classes at the University of Washington graduating with a B.A. in German with honors. Thereafter, I earned a J.D in Law from Brigham Young University.
My law office has been in Silverdale 28 years and I am experienced representing clients in Kitsap Superior Court. My representation has included dependencies, divorces, paternities, parenting plans, relocations, child support modifications, custody issues, landlord and tenant issues, probating wills, and civil litigation involving business, real estate, and vehicles. My time, experience, and areas of practice in Kitsap County Superior Court qualify me for this position. I would be honored to receive your vote.
Jeffrey P. BassettPhone: (360) 204-8865 Email: [email protected] Website: www.retainjudgebassett.com Legal/Judicial Experience: Appointed to the Kitsap County Superior Court 02/26/2016. Licensed for 30 years. Experience: 10 years personal injury and bankruptcy, 7 years criminal defense including juvenile sexual and serious crimes, 15 years dependency law, 5 years appellate practice.
Education: Bachelor’s degree, English/University of Florida 1983. Law degree/Florida State University College of Law 1985.
Community Service: Deeply involved in community theatres throughout Puget Sound, working both in front of and behind the scenes to support public arts. Foster parent since 2014, providing care to children in the foster care system.
Statement: I am a second-generation judge raised in the law, and I believe it to be a privilege to serve my community from the bench. Most of my experience as an attorney has involved serving the public, whether as public-appointed defense counsel, or as an attorney for the State. Working for the public good has been my calling. I am the former President of Washington LEGALS and volunteer attorney for VAPWA, handling pro bono matters for people living with HIV and AIDS. As the 2006 recipient of a professionalism award by the juvenile courts, I vow to continue my efforts to be professional, prepared, accessible and fair in my dealing with all who come before the Court. I am actively involved in my community, working with children in local Kitsap community theatres and volunteer reading at my foster children’s elementary school. I am rated “exceptionally well-qualified” by Washington Women Lawyers (highest rating) and have been endorsed by all judges from the Kitsap Superior Court and District Court benches, newly-retired Commissioner Thurman Lowans, and Retired Judge Jay B. Roof, whose seat I assumed on appointment to the bench.
Superior Court Judge Position No. 5 – Short and 4-year term
10 The Auditor’s Office is not responsible for the content of arguments or their factual and grammatical accuracy.
Ballot Measures
Kitsap Transit Proposition No. 1
Proposition No. 1Passenger-Only Ferry Investment Plan And Sales & Use TaxOfficial Ballot TitleKitsap Transit Proposition No.1 concerns passenger-only ferry service and revenue to implement the service. This proposition would approve Kitsap Transit’s Passenger-Only Ferry Investment Plan for cross-sound service between Bremerton, Kingston, Southworth and downtown Seattle, local service between Bremerton, Port Orchard and Annapolis and authorize Kitsap Transit to levy a local sales and use tax on taxable transactions of 3/10 of one percent to be used for passenger-only ferry service and related facilities and services. Should this proposition be approved? (Kitsap Transit Resolution No.’s 16-21,16-22,16-23; RCW 36.57A.200, 36.57A.210, 82.14.440)
□ Yes□ No
Explanatory Statement (Prepared by the Attorney for Kitsap Transit as prescribed by law.)Kitsap Transit Proposition No. 1 seeks voter approval of (i) Kitsap Transit’s Passenger-Only Ferry Investment Plan; and (ii) approval of taxes to implement the Plan. Under the Plan, Kitsap Transit will form a Ferry Division which will (i) operate or contract with King County (and/or others) to provide passenger-only ferry service between Bremerton, Kingston, Southworth, and downtown Seattle with fast, reduced-wake and fuel efficient vessels; and (ii) continue to provide local ferry service between Bremerton, Port Orchard and Annapolis which will free-up approximately $1,500,000.00 per year to augment Kitsap Transit’s Bus operations.
The Plan requires a mix of ridership fares, grants and taxes to subsidize operations and fund capital costs, including the purchase or lease of vessels, terminals and related facilities. The Plan requires an increase in local option sales and use tax of three-tenths of one percent on taxable transactions (3 cents on a $10.00 purchase). Use of these tax revenues is limited to passenger-only ferry service and related support facilities and services; by state law, these new tax revenues cannot be used for any other purpose.
The Plan and tax increases have been proposed as authorized by the State Legislature in RCW 36.57A.200 and 210 and 82.14.440; and approved by Kitsap Transit’s Board of Commissioners under Resolution No.’s 16-21,16-22 and 16-23.
This Statement was prepared by Ronald C. Templeton, General Counsel for Kitsap Transit.
Argument For the Measure Fast Ferry Will Benefit All of Kitsap Kitsap County voters should approve a high speed cross-sound ferry system linking North Kitsap, Bremerton and South Kitsap to downtown Seattle. These 30 minute crossings will create better access to jobs and local economic opportunity while alleviating traffic, providing better access to education, sporting events, shopping and entertainment.
Operated by Kitsap, Not State Bureaucrats Perhaps the greatest benefit will be a locally managed, funded and supported cross sound ferry system that will reduce our reliance on the State ferries that struggle to maintain existing service levels. We have more miles of shoreline than any other county in our nation, and a long, rich history of operating our ferries, dating back to the mosquito fleet.
Jobs and Economic Growth Imagine how easy it would be to connect to jobs and educational opportunities in Seattle from all of Kitsap. Too often our children leave the West Sound for education, business and career opportunities unavailable locally. The Fast Ferry will efficiently link students and those seeking employment in world-class businesses with schools and jobs.
Affordable for All The cost is only a .3% sales tax – or 3 cents on a $10 purchase. By approving this measure, vital funds to help expand bus service will be available to connect all of Kitsap to affordable transit – and job opportunities throughout the county and region. High speed cross sound ferries will increase our access to a greater diversity of jobs, investment, education and small business opportunities.
Rebuttal to the Argument AgainstThe investment in Fast Ferries is small compared to other projects in the region and benefits us directly. Grant funding for capital costs are realistic and likely. Approval will result in 23,000 hours of new bus service, which would expand local service. Fast ferries were once a beneficial element of WSF’s service plan - this plan restores that service. It’s time to take local control to guarantee a reliable, affordable connection to jobs and opportunity.
Arguments prepared by Chairperson Steve Sego; Committee Member Wes Larson; Committee Member Jon Rose; Committee For the Measure. Further questions may be addressed by calling (360) 616-0187; or by emailing [email protected].
Argument Against the Measure Vote No on the Kitsap Transit Proposition 1 Proposition 1 costs too much and benefits too few. This measure will raise an estimated $12 million per year, far surpassing the estimated economic benefit anticipated by Kitsap Transit.
The Prop 1 calls for an operating net loss of at least $2.7 million per year. In addition, the plan calls for obtaining about $25 million in taxpayer funded grants, not yet secured to build additional vessels and terminals in the first six years. Increasing the Kitsap County sales tax from 8.7% to 9.0% will make it far less competitive with consumers.
Prop 1 establishes a more expensive, redundant ferry service in direct competition with existing Washington State Ferry’s currently subsidized at 50% by all state taxpayers. The POFF would be subsidized at 70% by Kitsap county taxpayers alone. Prop 1 would cannibalize existing WSF service, reducing its financial sustainability.
Kitsap Transit and its Board of Directors consisting of elected county and city officials have a core mission of providing “safe, reliable and efficient transportation choices that enhance the quality of life in Kitsap County”. While in pursuit of placing Prop 1 on the ballot, there have been announcements of route cancellations and driver shortages. Still no Sunday bus service or services that are in sync with major employers work schedules or Olympic College evening classes.
Prop 1 is just a bad plan. Vote No and help get Kitsap Transit back on track to improve its existing operations and services.
Rebuttal to the Argument ForActually .3% sales tax is about $50.00 annually for every man, woman and child in Kitsap, including the poor, unemployed and disabled. Benefit claims are many but in reality Kitsap Transit intends contracting the services to Seattle. Kitsap alone pays while Seattle benefits most with jobs created and transport of a few wealthier income passengers stated as 45% over 100k, and 45% between 50K and 100K. Say no again to the little Privileged Only Ferry.
Arguments prepared by Chairperson Robert Parker; Committee Member Roy Runyon; Committee Member Colleen Smidt; Committee Against the Measure. Further questions may be addressed by calling (360) 337-6540; or by emailing [email protected].
The Auditor’s Office is not responsible for the content of arguments or their factual and grammatical accuracy. 11
Port of Poulsbo Proposition No. 1
Proposition No. 1Enlargement of Port of PoulsboThis proposition concerns the enlargement of the Port of Poulsbo. The proposition would authorize the Port of Poulsbo to enlarge its existing geographical boundaries by annexing to the Port the territory legally described in Port of Poulsbo Resolution No. 2016-03 Exhibit “A”.Should this proposition be enacted into law? (Pursuant to RCW 53.04.080 & Port District Resolution No. 2016-03)□ Enlargement of the Port of Poulsbo, Yes□ Enlargement of the Port of Poulsbo, No
Explanatory Statement (Prepared by the Attorney for the Port of Poulsbo as prescribed by law.)
Proposition No. 1 would change the boundary of the Port of Poulsbo such that the Port of Poulsbo boundary would incorporate all land lying within the current contiguous limits of the City of Poulsbo and Urban Growth Area (UGA) as of April 26, 2016; also including all that area on the Western side of Liberty bay lying South of the City of Poulsbo UGA, East of Viking Way and North of Nordic Cove Lane NW; and all that area on the Eastern side of Liberty Bay lying outside of the City of Poulsbo UGA and Southwesterly of State Highway 305 and Northerly of NE Johnson Way; except that portion of the UGA area lying Easterly of State Highway No. 3 and near the intersection of NW Equestrian Drive. The current boundary of the Port of Poulsbo lies entirely within the city limits of the City of Poulsbo. If approved the boundary of the Port of Poulsbo would include all of the City of Poulsbo as well as additional described areas. A legal description and maps of the proposed areas to be annexed are on file with the Kitsap County Auditor.
Argument For the MeasureWhy Port Expansion
The Port of Poulsbo is located within the City Limits of Poulsbo and makes up the heart of the city. The town we have grown to love and enjoy living in would not exist were it not for the Port and the tourism it draws. The facilities at the Port have been in existence for many years and even though the maintenance has been adequate the years have taken a toll on the infrastructure. There are major needs coming in the near future we must address to keep the Port a viable and thriving facility that will continue to bring enjoyment to our children in the future as it has in our lifetimes.
Expansion of the Port District is not just a goal of the Port Commission to increase revenue for frivolous spending but is essential to the future of the Port and the City of Poulsbo. The housing market and the value of your land is effected by the Ports success and the excitement it brings visitors which keeps them coming back. By investing in your community we invest in our own future, do the math, your small piece is a great investment for you and for your family in the future.
By supporting Port expansion the tax base will enable needed maintenance and ensure the growth of your community. Even if you don’t physically visit the Port you benefit by it daily, please take a real look at the benefits it brings you. Vote Yes.
Argument Against the MeasureNo argument submitted.
Rebuttal to the Argument AgainstNo argument against the measure submitted for rebuttal.
Rebuttal to the Argument ForNo rebuttal submitted.
Arguments prepared by Chairperson Mark Singer; Committee Member Peter Horner; Committee For the Measure. Further questions may be addressed by calling (360) 930-0329; or by emailing [email protected].
No committee against formed for appointment.
Ballot Measures
