There have been several letters published supporting the proposed Clark County charter. However, the Sept. 20 letter “Allegations are diversion tactic” by David Olson actually had a constructive suggestion mixed in with his tirade against Republicans. He suggested reading the charter. Voters would be wise to do so.
Mixed in with the feel-good promises of fairness is one very telling fact. Voters should read Article 3 The Executive Branch. Read it carefully. It tells, in detail, how citizen access to government diminishes once this charter is implemented. The Clark County commissioners (renamed councilors) will only meet twice-monthly. Any items brought to them can be ignored by the “at-large councilor.” This person and the county manager will determine what items will be acted upon and what items are not.
Since the Clark County Democrat political machine has announced a minimum basis of $65,000 to see that this charter passes, it stands to reason that they will pick and heavily finance the candidate for the at-large position. This will give them the same county control as they now have over the recently campaigned for and financed positions of Vancouver City Council.
If the charter passes, there is no means presented to rewrite it for five years. Although the review committee will be elected, it is doubtful these major problems will be addressed.