<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=192888919167017&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">
Thursday, March 28, 2024
March 28, 2024

Linkedin Pinterest

Letter: It’s doubtful citizens will have voice

The Columbian
Published: September 30, 2014, 5:00pm

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.

Jeanne Schaefer-Ringo

Vancouver

We encourage readers to express their views about public issues. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for brevity and clarity. Limit letters to 200 words (100 words if endorsing or opposing a political candidate or ballot measure) and allow 30 days between submissions. Send Us a Letter
Loading...