2024 General Election Voters' Pamphlet

LETTER FROM THE

auditor

Dear Voter,

It is a great privilege to present to you the information in this pamphlet.

This is the 30-year anniversary of the Pierce County Auditor’s Office producing a Local Voters’ Pamphlet. This publication provides you with important information about local candidates and ballot measures that will be decided this election, straight from the campaigns themselves.

As a lifelong Washington resident, I am filled with pride every time I hear people from other states relate how impressed they are that we provide voters with such comprehensive information. The Pierce County Elections staff cherishes the opportunity to deliver this important guidance on participating in our democratic process.

In her first local voter pamphlet introductory letter in 1994, thenPierce County Auditor Cathy Pearsall-Stipek wrote that she wanted the publication to “enable you to make the best possible informed decision on candidates and issues.”

This founding philosophy continues to set the tone for what this pamphlet means. I thank Cathy for those words, and I thank you for taking the time to learn about the resources our Pierce County Voters’ Pamphlet contains.

Please keep this pamphlet close at hand as you make your voting choices for the November 5 General Election.

Linda Farmer

What's Inside

The Pierce County Local Voters’ Pamphlet contains local Pierce County races and issues.

The State of Washington Voters’ Pamphlet contains Federal and State races and issues. If you didn’t receive a State Pamphlet, call 1-800-448-4881.

The statements in this pamphlet are printed exactly as submitted. No spelling, grammatical, or other corrections have been made. The Pierce County Auditor’s Office does not confirm that the statements printed are true or factual. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.

Your ballot includes only the races and issues that you are eligible to vote on, based on where you live. You may see races and issues in this voters’ pamphlet that don’t appear on your ballot.

Anderson Island

Anderson Island Park & Ride

Yoman Rd (near Villa Beach Rd) Anderson Island 98303

Ashford

Ashford County Park

29801 SR 706 Ashford 98304

Bonney Lake

Bonney Lake Park & Ride

Sky Island Dr E & 184th Ave E Bonney Lake 98391

Bonney Lake Public Safety Building

18409 Veterans Memorial Dr E Bonney Lake 98391

Buckley

Buckley Library

123 S River Rd Buckley 98321

Carbonado

Carbonado Town Hall

250 Coal Ave

Carbonado 98323

DuPont

DuPont Ross Plaza

1500 Wilmington Dr DuPont 98327

Eatonville

Barney’s Corner

40512 Meridian E Eatonville 98328

Eatonville Town Hall

201 Center St W Eatonville 98328

Edgewood

Edgewood City Hall 2224 104th Ave E Edgewood 98372

Elbe

Elbe Fire Station

54102 181st Ave Ct E (Next to Lahar Siren) Elbe 98330

Fife

Fife City Hall

5411 23rd St E Fife 98424

Fircrest

Fircrest City Hall

115 Ramsdell St Fircrest 98466

Fox Island

Nichols Community Center

690 9th Ave Fox Island 98333

Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor City Hall 3510 Grandview St

Gig Harbor 98335

Gig Harbor Library 4424 Point Fosdick Dr NW Gig Harbor 98335

Purdy Park & Ride 14567 Purdy Dr Gig Harbor 98332

Graham Graham Fire & Rescue 10012 187th St E Puyallup 98375

Graham Library 9202 224th St E Graham 98338

Key Peninsula Home Park 17220 8th Ave NW Lakebay 98349

Key Center Food Market 9021 Key Peninsula Hwy NW Lakebay 98349

Lake Kathryn Food Market 14220 92nd Ave NW Gig Harbor 98329

Lakewood

Lakewood City Hall 6000 Main St SW Lakewood 98499

Lakewood (SR 512) Park & Ride 10417 South Tacoma Way Lakewood 98499

Milton

Milton City Hall 1000 Laurel St Milton 98354

Orting

Orting Valley Fire & Rescue 401 Washington Ave SE Orting 98360

Parkland/Spanaway

Parkland/Spanaway Library 13718 Pacific Ave S Tacoma 98444

Roy Y Park & Ride

SR 507 and Pacific Ave S Spanaway 98387

Puyallup/South Hill Puyallup Library

324 South Meridian Puyallup 98371

Skookum Archers 11209 Shaw Rd E Puyallup 98374

South Hill Library 15420 Meridian E Puyallup 98375

South Hill Park & Ride 3102 9th St SW Puyallup 98373

Roy Roy City Hall 216 McNaught Rd S Roy 98580

Ruston

Totem Yacht Club (Behind Totem Yacht Club, entrance off N 51st St ) 5045 N Highland St Ruston 98407

South Prairie

South Prairie Dept 350 SR 162 South Prairie 98385

Steilacoom

Steilacoom Library 2950 Steilacoom Blvd Steilacoom 98388

Summit

Summit Library 5107 112th St E Tacoma 98446

Sumner Sumner Library 1116 Fryer Ave Sumner 98390

Tacoma 72nd St Transit Center 1319 E 72nd St Tacoma 98404

Community Health Care at Salishan 1708 E 44th St Tacoma 98404

Hilltop 902 S L St Tacoma 98405

5

Pierce County Annex 2401 S 35th St Tacoma 98409

Tacoma Area Coalition of Individuals with Disabilities (TACID) 6315 S 19th St Tacoma 98466

UW Tacoma 1906 Pacific Ave Tacoma 98402

Wapato Park S 72nd St & S Ainsworth Ave Tacoma 98408

Wheelock Library 3722 N 26th St Tacoma 98407

Tillicum

Tillicum Community Center 14916 Washington Ave SW Lakewood 98498

University Place

West Pierce Fire & Rescue 3631 Drexler Dr W University Place 98466

Wilkeson Wilkeson Town Hall 540 Church St Wilkeson 98396

Two ways to return your ballot - No stamp needed! Drop Box

Kandle Park Police Substation (parking lot) 5140 N 26th St Tacoma 98407

NE Police Substation 4731 Norpoint Way NE Tacoma 98422

Must be returned by 8 p.m. on November 5, 2024 mail must be postmarked by November 5, 2024

register to

Three ways to register to vote:

Register online

You can register online, 24 hours a day, at VoteWA.gov. To register in time to vote in the General Election, register online by October 28.

Register by mail

Download and print a registration form from PierceCountyElections.org and mail to Pierce County Elections. It must be received by October 28.

Register in-person

You can register to vote in-person at the Pierce County Election Center through Election Day, November 5. More information about Vote Center hours and locations can be found on page 6 of this pamphlet.

VoteWA offers an easy-to-use online voter portal where you can:

• Register to vote

• Update your address

• Track the return of your ballot

• Print a replacement ballot

• View the voters’ guide

• Find a ballot drop box near you

About the November 5, 2024 General Election

If a primary election was held for an office, the two candidates who received the most votes in the Primary advanced to the General Election.

Each candidate for partisan office may state a political party that he or she prefers. A candidate’s 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.

The election for President and Vice President is different. Candidates for President and Vice President are the official nominees of their political party.

Need Voter Assistance?

Pierce County Election Center

2501 S 35th St Suite C, Tacoma, WA 98409

Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Saturday, November 2 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

On November 4 and 5, voter services will be at the Pierce County Annex. The Pierce County Election Center remains open only for ballot processing observation. See extended hours for voter services below:

Extended Hours

Pierce County Annex

2401 S 35th St, Tacoma, WA 98409

November 4 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

November 5 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM

Voter Services:

• Register to vote

• Update voter registration

• Get a ballot and vote

• Replacement ballots for lost, damaged, or mismarked ballots

• Disability assistanceLarge font, color, contrast, and audible ballot options

• Get a voters’ pamphlet

points of assistance

Every public library in Pierce County, Tacoma, and Puyallup provides voter assistance on Election Day only.

Libraries are available during their regular business hours up until 8 p.m. to assist voters.

Voter Services:

• Register to vote

• Update voter registration

• Get a ballot and vote

• Replacement ballots for lost, damaged, or mismarked ballots

• Get a voters’ pamphlet

Student Engagement hub

University staff are available to help student voters access and print a ballot.

UW Tacoma

University Y Student Center 1710 Market St, Tacoma, WA 98402

Election Day only 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Voting is EASY!

Vote

1 2 3

Follow the ballot instructions to mark your choice. sign You must sign your return envelope. send Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day or dropped off by 8 p.m. on Election Day at an open drop box.

Additional resources

Limited English

Español

Llame al número gratuito y hable de inmediato con un intérprete.

1-844-242-7595

한국어

다음의 수신자 부담 번호로 전 화하여 통역사와 즉시 통화하 십시오.

1-844-242-7597

Tiếng Việt

Hãy gọi đến số điện thoại miễn phí và trò chuyện ngay với thông dịch viên.

1-855-517-9709

Disability Assistance

Center for Independence (253) 582-1253 (voice) (800) 724-8172

Hearing, Speech & Deafness Center (253) 475-0782 (voice) (253) 474-1748 (TTY) (253) 292-2209 (videophone)

Tacoma Area Coalition of Individuals with Disabilities (253) 565-9000 (voice) 711 (TTY)

Pierce County Executive

Elected Experience

Ryan Mello Prefers Democratic

Party

(253) 861-8356 info@ryanmello.com ryanmello.com

Pierce County Council 2021-present (Chair 2023-present); Tacoma City Councilmember, 2010-2019; Metro Parks Tacoma Commissioner, 2006-2009.

Other Professional Experience

Executive Director, Pierce Conservation District, 2012-2020; Pierce County Director, Forterra, 2006-2011; AmeriCorps Member, United Way of Pierce County, 2001-2003.

Education

B.A., Politics & Government, University of Puget Sound.

Community Service

Current board member: Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, Pierce Transit, Puget Sound Regional Council Executive & Transportation Policy Board, and South Sound Housing Affordability Partners. Former board member: Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, Puget Sound Regional Council Growth Management Policy Board, Chair; Transportation Choices Coalition, Equal Rights Washington, and Tacoma Historical Society.

Statement

I first moved to Tacoma to attend college, and quickly fell in love with the people and this beautiful place. Over the past 17 years, I’ve worked across communities to improve our quality of life. My leadership advanced Made-in-Pierce County solutions to issues that matter: increasing support for our first responders, expanding mental health services, and creating good-paying, union jobs. I’ve championed broadband expansion, funding thousands of affordable housing units, and reducing traffic deaths and serious injuries. As Council Chair, I passed a balanced, bipartisan budget that invests in law enforcement, addressing root causes of crime, senior centers, parks, small business growth, childcare access, transportation solutions, veterans services, and more.

I’ll continue finding balanced solutions to our most pressing challenges. I’ve proven how important collaboration is to strengthening our community. Pierce County deserves trusted, results-oriented leadership for real progress. As your Executive, I’ll protect our communities, reproductive health and freedoms.

Endorsed by Democrats like U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer & Marilyn Strickland, Republicans and Independents like Lakewood Mayor Jason Whalen and University Place Mayor Javier Figueroa, Pierce County Labor Council, Pierce County Professional Firefighters, Washington Conservation Action, and more. I’d be honored to earn your vote.

Elected Experience

Kelly Chambers Prefers GOP Party

(253) 267-8553

kelly@kellychambers.org kellychambers.org

State Representative House District 25 for six years. The ranking Republican member of the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee; assistant ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee; member of the House Innovation, Community and Economic Development, and Veterans Committee.

Other Professional Experience

A former teacher, Kelly owns a local home healthcare business and a vineyard with her husband, Jeff.

Education

Two BAs from PLU, one in secondary education and the other political science.

Community Service

Board of Puget Sound Honor Flight, past president of the Healthcare Providers Council of Pierce County, a Chamber of Commerce mentor for women in business, and belongs to NFIB.

Statement

Less crime, more jobs, and more common sense. When I talk with people on their doorstep, those are the things I hear again and again, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s why I have a plan to work on these issues (and more!) on day one.

Countless people are suffering from addiction and mental illness in our community. The “high-risk lifestyle” is driving crime in our downtown core and neighborhoods. My plan ensures families are safe while getting vulnerable people the treatment they need. As a small business owner, I’ve grown a company that employs hundreds of people. As a former teacher, I know everything starts with a good education. I will ensure crucial skills are taught in our classrooms and expand early childhood learning opportunities so the future stays bright.

Pierce County is home to unmatched natural beauty—and it’s our responsibility to be careful stewards of the land. Unfortunately, too many things done in the name of stewardship are cruelly unrealistic, like the recent natural gas ban. I’ll ensure green policies that work and are fair.

Together, we’ll continue moving Pierce County in the right direction. As your county executive, I will listen and I will act.

Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer

Elected Experience

Marty Campbell

(253) 376-3774

ElectCampbell@gmail.com

electmartycampbell.com

Currently serving as your Pierce County Councilmember, ViceChair; Former Tacoma City Councilmember and Deputy Mayor.

Other Professional Experience

I am the only candidate with the necessary executive management and county-level government experience for this office. Prior to joining the Council, I founded and operated two successful small businesses and worked as the Salishan Community Association Manager.

Education

University of Nebraska; Green River College.

Community Service

I’m an active volunteer having served on many boards and commissions including: Crystal Judson Family Justice Center, Pierce County Commission Against Domestic Violence, ZooTrek Authority, Grand Cinema, Tacoma Arts Live, Pierce County Agriculture Advisory Committee, and Workforce Central.

Statement

I’m running for Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer because we deserve quality customer service, efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and professional and fair tax assessments. I’ll bring my management and business experience to help run a professional and effective Assessor-Treasurer’s Office.

As a Councilmember, I’ve responsibly ensured all our tax dollars are used effectively and always maintained balanced budgets. We don’t need higher property taxes – we need a more fair and efficient tax system that makes good use of homeowners’ hardearned dollars. I’ve demonstrated this commitment on the City and County Councils, ensuring our tax dollars are used well, and as a small business owner, maintaining responsibility to my employees and the bottom line. I’m committed to making sure everyone in our community benefits from our policies – veterans, seniors, those on a fixed income, and people hoping to buy their first home.

I’ve earned the endorsement of current and former Councilmembers and Mayors across the county from Tacoma, Lakewood, Edgewood, Puyallup, Fircrest, University Place, and Steilacoom. They’ve all endorsed me because they trust that I’ll manage an efficient, fiscally responsible Assessor-Treasurer’s Office.

I don’t take this role lightly and hope that I earn your trust and your vote.

Elected Experience

Kent D. Keel

(253) 753-9127

kent@kentkeel.com kentkeel.com

2002 – 2011: UP School Board; 2012 – 2023: UP City Council; Endorsed by Marilyn Strickland, Bruce Dammeier, Victoria Woodards, Dean Johnson, Lyle Quasim, Phil Fortunato, Jim Walton, Jim McCune, Deanna Keller, Spencer Hutchins, Keith Blocker, JT Wilcox, Kim Roscoe, Ross Hjelseth, Paul Pastor.

Other Professional Experience

Retired Disabled Veteran; Former International Business Owner; Executive Fortune 100 Company and Government Agencies; Executive Nonprofit Affordable Housing.

Education

MBA – Engineering & Technology Management; BS – Computer Information Systems.

Community Service

National League of Cities; President Association of Washington Cities; Chair National League of Cities Technology Committee; Co-Chair 2015 US Open Task Force; Church Food & Clothing Bank.

Statement

Mike is termed out. We need a different highly qualified person in the job. This election is not about familiar name or Party affiliation. This is not a city council or county council position that sets policy and law; this is not a mid-level staff position that carries out procedures and operations. This is a senior executive leader that interprets policy and law and then creates procedures and operations. This nonpartisan race is about electing who’s best to do senior executive work.

I am the only candidate that has senior executive experience, leading hundreds of professional staff. I am the only candidate with experience delivering leading edge technology that improved customer service and employee productivity in large organizations. I am the only candidate with experience representing a school district, a public transportation agency, and cities at the local, state, and national levels on issues impacting property taxes.

This is why I am the only candidate with endorsements from leaders in both major parties. Property taxes are neither partisan nor partial. For 22 years, I have proven to be fair and balanced. An honest and unbiased examination would prove that I am the best qualified. I ask for your vote.

Pierce County Sheriff

Elected Experience

Keith Swank

(253) 446-6445

keith@swankforsheriff.com

swankforsheriff.com

Union Executive Officer. Precinct Committee Officer. Vice-Chair, 25th Legislative District.

Other Professional Experience

Police captain with 33-years of experience. Commander of the Metro Special Response Section (SWAT, Arson/Bomb Squad, Harbor Patrol, K9 Unit). US Department of Justice national law enforcement instructor, expert in crisis intervention and deescalation. US Army Infantry; Ranger, Airborne, LRSU and HALO. Professional Recognitions: Chief’s Award. Excellence Award.

Education

University of Washington, Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Graduate of the Northwest Law Enforcement Command College.

Community Service

Youth Baseball and Wrestling Coach. Church Volunteer. Tacoma Sportsmen’s Club. Fraternal Order of Eagles. Lions Club International.

Statement

July 28, 2006—A police dispatcher answers a 911 call; a man committing a mass shooting at the Seattle Jewish Federation is on the line. At a loss for words, the dispatcher turns to then Sergeant Keith Swank, commander of the 911 center. Swank defuses the situation and convinces the killer to surrender without further injury or loss of life to hostages.

In 2020, Captain Swank was the SWAT Team commander called on to finally clear and secure the CHOP/CHAZ riot zone in Seattle. Serving on street patrols for over 15 years, Swank made countless high-stakes arrests keeping the community safe, including over 100 undercover busts of violent criminals and sex offenders.

Swank’s priorities will be arresting violent offenders, fighting the opioid/fentanyl crisis, enforcing immigration laws, and humane cleanup of homeless encampments. Low staffing, moral, and other serious problems in the sheriff’s department will be addressed.

Captain Swank served proudly under members of both parties and is endorsed by democrats and republicans. The office of sheriff is too important for on-the-job training. For safer streets the choice is clear, vote Keith Swank, our most qualified, accomplished, and well-rounded choice.

Elected Experience

None

Patti Jackson

(253) 386-0380

patti@votepattijackson.com

votepattijackson.com

Other Professional Experience

A 35-year law enforcement career with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, where she spent most of the last decade in command positions, including as Corrections Bureau Chief. Patti is currently Chief of Patrol, overseeing patrol deputies countywide.

Education

Patti is pursuing a master’s in business and leadership and completing the Northwestern Command College. She holds undergraduate degrees in psychology and communications. Patti is a proud Bethel High School graduate.

Community Service

City-County Opioid Task Force; National Association on Mental Illness; two-time Officer of the Year; two-time Medal of Merit recipient.

Statement

Patti Jackson found her purpose by serving you and our community as a member of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. She has the skills, experience, and record of recruiting success to ensure the department can continue to serve all of us with distinction.

Patti Jackson seeks to create an environment where every member of our diverse community – including agency members – feels heard, valued, and equally served, prioritizing fairness, accountability, and innovation in law enforcement practices. Through collaborative efforts with residents, community organizations, local businesses, and government partners, she will champion law enforcement strategies proven to address the root causes of our county’s biggest challenges, creating lasting positive change. Under Patti, the Sheriff’s Department will serve as a beacon of transparency, integrity, and community engagement.

Patti is proudly endorsed by County Executive Bruce Dammeier (R), County Council Chair Ryan Mello (D), majorities of the Pierce County and Tacoma councils, dozens of current and former law enforcement leaders, and many other Republicans, Democrats, independents, community leaders, and residents.

“I’m running to provide community-centered leadership and strengthen the bonds between our diverse community and law enforcement through trust and open communication. I ask for your vote.” –Patti Jackson

Cities in Pierce County County Council Districts

Pierce County Council, District No. 2

Elected Experience

Paul Herrera

Prefers Republican Party

(253) 251-2044

Info@paulforpierce.com

Paulforpierce.com

Council-member, Pierce County Council District 2; Chair, Public Safety Committee; Member, Economic and Infrastructure Development Committee; Member, Health and Human Services; Member, Select Committee on Homelessness

Other Professional Experience

Police Sargent, Puyallup Tribe; Director of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, Puyallup Tribe; School Resource Officer; Pierce County Gang Taskforce; Swift-water Rescue Technician; Group Crisis Intervention; Undercover Narcotics Detective; Military Squad Leader

Education

Tacoma Community College, Police Certification

Community Service

Member, Washington State Veterans Legislative Coalition; State Commander (22-23), Local Commander (16-18), member, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Veteran of the Year for Washington State (15-16); volunteer with local nursing homes; active in local church.

Statement

I want to cultivate a Pierce County where individuals, families, and businesses feel safe going about their day to day activities. And I am committed to being a “boots on the ground” advocate for the residents of Pierce County.

With my diverse background in the military and law enforcement, I bring valuable knowledge to public safety challenges we face. I aim to use this experience to make informed decisions and policies that benefit Pierce County and actually make a difference. Public safety goes beyond just crime prevention; it includes public health and emergency preparedness. I am committed to tackling issues like homelessness and addiction by investing in public health programs and prioritizing resources for vulnerable populations.

I know that affordability is a big concern for families, I pledge not to keep hitting the people of Pierce County in the pocketbook by continuing to raise taxes. I also pledge to address some of the infrastructure needs across the county, we need to keep building roads, bridges, fish passage culverts, and maintain the infrastructure we already have. Our County Council should reflect residents’ values, and I vow to be your voice and advocate. Together we can build a strong, thriving Pierce County.

Elected Experience

PCO

Davida Haygood Prefers Democratic Party

vote4davida@gmail.com vote4davida.com

Other Professional Experience

Associate and Bachelors SpEd Professor; College Administrator; Early Childhood Education Center Director; Early Childhood Educator; Special Education Family Liaison; President: Washington Association of Colleges for Teacher Education

Education

BS in Business Administration and Marketing; MS in Early Childhood Education and Special Education

Community Service

Washington Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (WACTE); Collaboration for Effective Educator Development, Accountability, and Reform (CEEDAR); Washington Education Association (WEA); WSP Proactive Equity Anti-Racism Team (PEAR); City of Puyallup Design Review & Historic Preservation Board; The Two-Way Racial Healing Project; Am I Next? Puyallup; Puyallup United Against Fear; Emerge Graduate; Jane’s Fellowship; Puyallup School District Curriculum Committee-Physics

Statement

As an educator, community organizer, and tireless advocate with deep roots in Pierce County, I understand the unique challenges our residents face. My journey from housing insecurity to becoming an associate professor has given me unparalleled perspective on our community’s needs and the bold, innovative solutions we require.

I believe in fostering an authentic community where every voice is heard, and every need is met. I passionately advocate for affordable housing initiatives that genuinely reflect our residents’ needs, ensuring safe neighborhoods for children to grow up in and seniors to age in place. I champion environmental justice, collaborating closely with local tribes and stakeholders to protect our precious natural resources. And I prioritize youth empowerment, working diligently to increase access to activities, remove financial barriers, and create civic engagement opportunities, nurturing the next generation of leaders.

As your Pierce County Councilmember, I will bring unwavering passion, extensive experience connecting with diverse communities, and fresh perspective to tackle our shared challenges head-on. I’m committed to removing the elitism from government, ensuring it represents all residents, and amplifying the voices of the underrepresented. I humbly ask for your vote, together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for Pierce County.

Pierce County Council, District No. 3

Elected Experience

Amy Cruver

Prefers Republican Party

(253) 847-7891

vote4amycruver@hotmail.com

electamycruver.com

County Councilmember, 2020; Charter Review Commission, 2016; Drainage District Commissioner, Chair, 2016; Precinct Committee Officer since 2000.

Other Professional Experience

Legislative and County Council Assistant (15 years). Agricultural Drainage Task Force. Pierce County Advisory Committees: Transportation; Agricultural; Friends of Spanaway/Kapowsin Lakes. Coordinated with Fish & Wildlife, Ecology, Graham Fire Chief, and Clean Air Agency to maintain agricultural hydrology, preserving property and infrastructure.

Education

Arizona State University, B.S., business

Community Service

South Pierce Fire & Rescue Support; Citizen’s Alliance for Property Rights; Center for Self Governance; Citizens United for Responsible Education; Farm Bureau; Eatonville Business Association; Graham Business Association; Back Country Horsemen; Fair Foundation Rainier Club; UNSC.

Statement

Four years ago, you chose Amy for County Council, knowing she’s committed to keeping you informed on issues and defending the common-sense values and financial prudence you expect in a representative. Despite opposition, she stood firm.

Amy’s vigilant for protecting your assets. She increased funding for reducing blight and helped block an airport. Amy fights to fund needs over wants and protect the lawful from the lawless. She didn’t hesitate to increase funding for public safety. She’s outspoken supporting seniors (funded their center), veterans and your right of conscience. She won’t be bullied by powerful interest groups. Endorsed: PC Deputy Sheriff’s Independent Guild.

Amy champions character building activities, like 4H, the County Fair and local events that bring families and communities together. She supports programs proven to lift those at risk out of poverty and achieve stability. Amy seeks balance in transportation needs, securing affordable housing, environmental protections, and expanding parks for more recreational access.

Amy knows a strong economy generates the revenues for essential services, like broadband, for creating jobs and building independence. She’s joined with local leaders, brainstorming solutions to elevate commerce, lifting up businesses. You labor hard for your earnings. Government shouldn’t tax them away.

Elected Experience

John M. Linboe

Prefers Democratic Party

(253) 261-1134

electjohnlinboe@gmail.com

electjohnlinboe.com

SPFR Fire Commissioner, WFCA Director. Machinist Lodge 289 Executive Board. Pierce County Labor Council Delegate, State Labor Council Economic Development and Transportation Committee, Workforce Development Committee, King County Labor Council Port Coalition Delegate, Pierce County Fair Board, and more.

Other Professional Experience

Founder and Chair HEX-REX Recreation Committee. Pierce County Fair Youth Market Show and Sale Manager. Work Safety Committee Member.

Education

Associate degree Fire Protection Engineering Technology. Bachelor’s Degree Labor Studies. Graduate Degree Work and Labor Policy, advanced certificate in Workforce Development.

Community Service

Superintendent, Pierce County Fair. Pierce Country Fair Market Sale Manager. Pierce County Fair Foundation Member. 4H and FFA parent.

Statement

As a Fire Commissioner of the South Pierce Fire and Rescue and Washington State Fire Commissioners Association Region 7 Director, I look forward to the challenges and new opportunities to help our citizens and first responders to enhance community safety. I have worked as a machinist and our union’s chief shop steward. In these roles as well as my commissioner roles I’ve learned to work with and respect a diverse group of people.

I will work toward creating a progressive future and stability for Pierce County Council District 3 by advocating for its citizens and making sure our hard-earned dollars are being used responsibly. I will make every effort to ensure our first responders have the necessary personnel, equipment, and tools to perform their jobs safely and our citizens and homeless population have access to the services they need. I am committed to quiet progress characterized by continuous learning, gradual improvement, and a focus on long-term goals leading to substantial quality, productivity, and positive outcomes within our district.

Currently endorsed by IAM Local Lodge 289, Pierce County Central Labor Council, PC Democrats, and IAM Aerospace Machinist Union DL 751, IAFF 726.

Pierce

Elected Experience

Rosie Ayala

Prefers Democratic Party

(253) 666-9354 info@peopleforrosieayala.com peopleforrosieayala.com

Metro Parks Tacoma Commissioner (2021 - Present).

Other Professional Experience

Director of Operations, Foundation for Tacoma Students (2020 - Present); Senior Director of Education, Peace Community Center (2017 -2020); Educational Planner, Tacoma Community College (2013- 2017); Spanish-speaking Healthcare Advocate, Washington County; and Homeless Youth Advocate, Outside In.

Education

M.A. Systemic Organizational Leadership & Design, Seattle University; B.A. Sociology/ Anthropology Lewis & Clark College.

Community Service

Current Vice Chair, Joint Municipal Action Committee, Past Chair, Tacoma Arts Commission, American Leadership Forum board member, former Palmer Scholars mentor, and former Vibrant Schools board member. Vaccine Clinic, outreach and coordination support (RAIN Incubator).

Statement

As a Metro Parks Commissioner, I’ve fought for equitable policies and improvements to quality of life for our community. My parents immigrated to this country. I saw them struggle with language barriers, and work tirelessly, yet need public services to provide for the family. Like so many in Pierce County, I’ve worked multiple jobs to pay bills and know making ends meet is hard. That’s why I’m running for office I want better for people and I’m the leader with the lived and professional experience to bring positive change.

My years of advocacy and community-oriented work have prepared me to lead in this position. I’m ready to tackle Pierce County’s toughest challenges: housing affordability & services, safety & violent crime, and investing in youth so they can grow and lead. My upbringing taught me that when government works alongside people we create opportunities for all. Regional collaboration is key to addressing our challenges and I will continue to work tirelessly to make government work for everyone, just like I’ve done on the Parks Board.

Endorsed by County Council Chair Ryan Mello, PC Labor Council, House Speaker Laurie Jinkins and 50+ elected and community leaders across Tacoma, Fircrest and University Place.

Elected Experience

Rodney Robinson Prefers Democratic Party

(501) 500-4981

rodney@electrodneyrobinson.com electrodneyrobinson.com

No Information Submitted

Other Professional Experience

Director, Campaign to End and Prevent Youth and Young Adult; Homelessness in Pierce County; Regional Director, Treehouse; Program Manager, Metropolitan Development Council; Lead Case Manager, Housing 4 Success; Housing Case Manager, Helping Hand House

Education

Henry Foss High School class of 1999; Southern University and A&M College

Community Service

Pierce County Continuum of Care; Office of Homeless Youth Advisory Board; Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness; Pierce County Birth to 25 advisory board; Pierce County Anchor Core initiative; Intervention Task Force for Tacoma Gang Initiative; Club253 YWCA Associate Board member; Washington State Coalition Against Sex Crimes; 2014 Workforce Youth; Job Fair Committee Chair

Statement

As a born and raised Tacoman, I am deeply rooted in the fabric of our community. From attending Henry Foss High School to serving on the front lines of our most pressing challenges, I have spent my entire life working to make Pierce County a better place for all.

With nearly two decades of experience in the human services sector, I have been a fierce advocate for the most vulnerable members of our community. I have worked to address homelessness through my leadership roles in the Office of Homeless Youth Advisory Board. I have also been involved in efforts to promote public safety, including serving on the Tacoma Gang Intervention Task Force and the Washington State Coalition Against Sex Crimes.

As your representative on the County Council, I will bring a homegrown perspective and a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to our residents. I will champion policies that support working families, invest in education, and address crime by focusing on prevention, intervention, and community-based solutions.

I will be a tireless advocate for the place I am proud to call home, and work every day to build a safe, equitable, and prosperous Pierce County for all.

Elected Experience

Loujanna “LJ” Rohrer Prefers Republican Party

(253) 720-2045 loujannarohrer@gmail.com votelj.com

School Board Director, Steilacoom Historical School District (2020 – current); WSSDA Statewide Board of the Year 2022, Board of Distinction 2023, and Leadership Graduate 2022, Nationally ranked high school since 2019.

Other Professional Experience

Senior Legislative Assistant, WA State Legislature; Council staff, Pierce County Council; 2022 School Board Chair; Multijurisdictional policy, budget, and liaison expert.

Education

BA Communication, Western Washington University; AA, Pierce College

Community Service

“National Night Out” Co-Chair, Holiday Toy Drive Chair, Dessert Dash Co-Chair for Kiwanis of Steilacoom; Apple Squeeze Co-Chair for SHMA, SHSD#1 Citizen Levy Committees, Champion Centre DuPont, Wear Blue; Run to Remember, Young Life, founded Pioneer WyldLife, foster mom

Statement

As a 44 year resident of Pierce County with a decade of policy experience and public service, I’ll serve our community with integrity.  I’m a proven leader with a track record of bringing people together and solving problems.  Together, we can build a better Pierce County.

Pierce County is headed in the wrong direction.  Over the past four years, we’ve seen increasing crime, a growing homelessness and drug crisis, and higher taxes, despite county revenues nearly doubling this past decade.  I’ll oppose tax hikes that threaten hardworking families, renters, and seniors and veterans on fixed incomes. I’m a fierce advocate for public safety, our local businesses, effective approaches to homelessness, and responsible government spending.  I’ll fight for strong communities, as I’ve done as a senior legislative aide at the House of Representatives, assistant to the County Council, and School Board Director.  I’ll fight for you on the County Council.

I’m endorsed by County Executive Bruce Dammeier, former Council Chair Doug Richardson, Lakewood Mayor Whalen, Steilacoom Mayor Muri, DuPont’s Deputy Mayor Winkler, and retired Sheriff Paul Pastor.

I have their vote, and humbly ask for yours.  On behalf of my four children and husband of 28 years, thank you.

Elected Experience

Jani Hitchen

Prefers Democratic Party

(253) 282-6526

jhitchen@electjanihitchen.com electjanihitchen.com

Pierce County Council, (2020-Present); Precinct Committee Officer

Other Professional Experience

Biology & Physical Science Teacher, Graham Kapowsin High School (2012-2020); Physical Science Teacher, Spanaway & Liberty Junior High Schools (2008-2012); Technology Education & Leadership Teacher, Lochburn Middle School

Education

Master of Education, University of Washington; Bachelors of Arts & Education, Pacific Lutheran University

Community Service

Chair, Tacoma Pierce County Board of Health; WA State Public Health Advisory Board; Crystal Judson Family Justice Center, Board; Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force; Union member, WEA; former mentor First Robotics Competition; Pierce County Coalition Against Domestic Violence; Girl Scouts of Western Washington

Statement

As a teacher, I know how important homework and attendance are. For the last four years, I’ve worked hard and shown up every day for our community to bring real change on issues that matter to our district. To address housing, affordability, safety, and the recent rise in crime, I’ve reached across the aisle and found pragmatic solutions to Pierce County’s most pressing issues.

We need collaborative and compassionate councilmembers who will listen to all the people they represent and act in their best interests. As your councilmember, I stepped up to address the needs of our youth, advocate for survivors of domestic violence, and find solutions for our housing crisis. I’ll continue to be your voice, to ask tough questions, and to push for the unique needs of our communities in District 6.

Whether you reside on Anderson or Ketron Island, in Dupont, Lakewood, Parkland, Steilacoom, or JBLM, I’m committed to listening to your concerns, representing your interests, and would be honored to continue to serve you. I’m honored to be endorsed by many great leaders and organizations including the PC Central Labor Council, Washington Education Association, Puyallup Tribe of Indians and West/Central Pierce Fire & Rescue.

Ballot Title

The City of Tacoma adopted Resolution No. 41454 concerning lifting the property tax levy for the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD).

This measure enhances TFD facilities, fleet, and staffing to improve response capacity and firefighter safety by increasing the regular property tax levy by $0.65/$1,000 to a maximum rate of $2.52/$1,000 of assessed value for collection in 2025; authorizing an annual increase up to 6% for 2026-2030 for the additional rate; authorizing the 2030 levy amount as the basis to calculate future levies (RCW 84.55). Qualifying seniors, veterans and others would be exempt (RCW 84.36.381). Should this proposition be approved or rejected?

Explanatory Statement

The City of Tacoma has proposed a ballot measure to raise property taxes from an estimated maximum rate of $1.87/$1,000 of assessed value (AV) in 2025 to $2.52/$1,000 of AV, an increase of $0.65/$1,000 of AV. This additional tax is designated to cover specific expenses, both existing and new, for the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD). These expenses reflect increasing yearly call volumes which require investments in buildings, vehicles, equipment, and additional first responding units.

This tax will provide dedicated revenue to add facilities, fleet, and equipment allowing TFD to replace and upgrade critical life-saving assets, improve response and firefighter safety by adding new responders, and support existing first responders and staff. The new revenue may fund construction of a new South Tacoma fire station and future equipment replacements, such as the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) that firefighters use to breathe safely in fires and hazardous materials incidents.   The revenue generated will be deposited into a fund separate from the General Fund and dedicated to TFD expenses. This levy lid lift is expected to increase property taxes for the average Tacoma homeowner by about $25/month.

Statement For Statement Against

Vote Yes on Proposition 1, Fire Levy Lid Lift:

24 hours each day, 7 days per week, the dedicated women and men of the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD) respond to your calls for help. No matter who you are, no matter what the circumstances, and even during a global pandemic, TFD is there to help you and your loved ones in times of crisis, medical emergency, and fire without hesitation or delay.

TFD is grateful the community supports its emergency responders but with growing demand for emergency services it still needs your help. Each year, firefighters respond to an increased number of calls from our community. However, while the number of calls has increased, funding for facilities, equipment, and vehicles has not kept up with the high demand for help. Voting “Yes” will ensure TFD has adequate funding to continue to serve our community whenever it is called.

Rebuttal

The proposed levy is a five-year rate increase. Thereafter, normal annual limits for property tax increases still apply. TFD lost staff, deferred purchases and suffered partial station reductions during the Great Recession. Now, TFD remains insufficiently staffed and equipped, call volume has increased 36% and it has added responsibility for Basic Life Support transport and alternative response programs. TFD’s stations are, on average, nearly 70 years old. Many need critical seismic and safety upgrades.

Committee Members: Michael Fitzgerald, Conor McCarthy, Ron Stephens mflevy0930@gmail.com

Attention Renters:

This measure will be not only raising the tax next year, they will also be raising it by up to 6% each year – this means your landlord will be needing to raise your rent each year to pay those additional taxes.

Poor Past Management Not Our Fault:

Now complaining about old equipment and facilities. The amount going to Fire Department went up 175% from 201314 to 2023-24. Why haven’t they been paying for those (one new truck, one replacement building) each year?

Still Paying Other Levies

Last year we just passed a $0.50 levy for the Emergency Medical program (a sub part of the Fire Department). We are still paying on the Levy passed eight years ago to fix our roads.

More Calls by City Council Inaction

The vast majority of new calls over the past several years are due to issues brought about by the drug use and mental health issues associated with homelessness not being adequately addressed by the City Council.

Rebuttal

The increase in the number of fires is a result of the increase in homelessness, mental health issues, drug use and crime. Six buildings were intentionally set on fire in Tacoma recently. No matter how new and fancy the fire trucks are, it is difficult to save lives in a multifamily building fire which spreads in seconds. Stricter law enforcement and more police officers on Tacoma streets is what needs to happen.

Committee Members: Steven Cook, Rita Andreeva, Donna Walters tsc25239@aol.com

charter amendments

The City of Tacoma is governed by a city charter. The current version of the Tacoma City Charter has been in place since 1953. The City of Tacoma is one of eleven cities in the State of Washington to operate under a city charter. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.

What is a City Charter?

A city charter serves as the organic law of the City establishing a basic set of rules for city government. Like the constitutions for the state and federal governments, the city charter establishes the form of city government and the branches, officers, and departments of city government. It defines their relationships and how they interact.

Changing the Charter

Tacoma’s City Charter can only be changed by a vote of the people. Proposed changes can be initiated by the City Council or by a voter initiative petition.

The Tacoma City Charter requires that a citizens’ committee look at the charter at least once every ten years.

Charter Review Committee

The Tacoma City Council appointed a 15-member Charter Review Committee in December 2023. The Committee held multiple meetings, took public testimony, and studied numerous proposed amendments. The Committee met from January to early May 2024 and then forwarded recommended changes to the City Council.

The Tacoma City Council chose to place six proposed Charter amendments on the ballot after review during thirteen public meetings and conducting a public hearing.

For More Information

Information about the six amendments appears on pages 18-23 of this pamphlet. Specific text changes to the City Charter can be viewed at piercecountyelections.org. Strikethroughs (deleted text) and underlines (new text) are shown for each proposed amendment. Additional information can be found on the City’s web page at cityoftacoma.org/charterreview or by contacting the Tacoma City Clerk’s Office at (253) 591-5505.

Special Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 1

Providing for Equitable Access

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41476 to amend Articles II, VI and IX of the City Charter concerning equitable access. This proposed amendment would eliminate or replace the word “citizen” when used to describe the status or activity of a Tacoma resident, remove the prohibition upon employment of persons who are not United States citizens, replace the term handicap with disability, and require periodic Council review of City employment related anti-discrimination ordinances. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Sections 2.3, 2.19, 2.20, 2.25, 6.3 and 9.2 of the City Charter limit access to government, and rights and privileges granted under the City Charter based upon citizenship status. Section 6.7 of the City Charter establishes nondiscrimination requirements for access to employment and uses the terms mental and physical handicap. Individually and collectively, these requirements and terminology may create or perpetuate barriers to equitable access to government. The proposed amendment would either remove the term citizen from the charter or change the term citizen to resident and would replace the term handicap with disability and require periodic review of anti-discrimination ordinances.

Statement For Statement Against

Tacoma Charter Amendment No. 1 would affirm our City’s commitment to equal access and dovetail with our designation as a “Welcoming City.”

By changing the word “citizen” to “resident,” and, in one section, to “requester,” it would promote a community in which all residents are appreciated and encouraged to participate.

Removing the unenforceable and unconstitutional requirement that City applicants and employees must be citizens would bring our charter into express compliance with state and federal laws permitting eligible non-citizens, such as green-card holders, DACA recipients, and others with work-qualifying visas, to be lawfully employed.

Finally, changing “handicap” to “disability” in the charter’s anti-discrimination section and ensuring that the City Council periodically updates corresponding anti-discrimination ordinances would foster inclusion, respect, and fair treatment for all City applicants and employees, which would, in turn, help make everyone feel truly welcome in Tacoma.

Rebuttal

Amendment No. 1 would encourage the civic involvement of all residents, which by definition includes citizens. It would expand opportunities for City employment to include citizens and eligible non-citizens, which state and federal laws already require. Nothing would diminish citizens’ community engagement or potential leadership roles. Updating “handicap” to “disability” would make the charter consistent with current usage, Tacoma’s anti-discrimination ordinances, and the Washington State Law Against Discrimination, RCW 49.60.

Committee Members: Rebecca Stith, Maricres Castro, Theresa Evans

RSScharter@gmail.com

Vote No on this amendment. The intention and language of the original Charter should be maintained.

We need to promote the involvement of citizens throughout the city. Changing the meaning of words has consequences. This word change makes the critical role of citizen involvement and citizenship meaningless. This amendment does not improve the Charter nor the functioning of the city. Citizens have an important leadership role in the community. Citizens are to be involved, accept responsibilities, including voting, and leading by example. Changing the word “citizen” to “resident” removes a simple and basic requirement of community engagement.

Additionally, changing one word, “handicap” to “disability” (which occurs in one place) is not necessary. The use of disability is common today. Imagine using the Charter Review Committee opportunity to revise one word. What next?

Rebuttal

Citizenship is an important requirement in the City Charter. As we are a “Welcoming City,” we share our knowledge of our nation helping others to become citizens and participate. The simple requirement to become a citizen should be maintained. Would you remove qualification requirements for doctors, teachers, engineers, pilots? There is no need to remove this important requirement. Federal Law does not allow non-citizens to vote. Maintain the Charter. Vote No.

Committee Members: William Burns Kburns.wcb@gmail.com

Special Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 2

Required Meetings of the City Council

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41477 to amend Section 2.8 of the City Charter concerning requirements for City Council meetings. This proposed amendment removes the prohibition upon the Council having more than one regular meeting each week and increases the minimum number of annual regular meetings from 46 to 70. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Section 2.8 of the City Charter currently provides that the City Council shall hold regular meetings at least 46 times each calendar year and that regular meetings of the Council shall be no more often than once each week. The current practice of the City Council is to schedule meetings of the Council at the Tuesday afternoon Council study session and the Tuesday evening Council business meeting. Both the study session and the business meeting occur regularly each week, except when cancelled, and may be considered regular meetings for purposes of Section 2.8 of the City Charter. If approved this amendment would remove the limitation in the City Charter upon the Council holding regular meetings more often than once a week and would increase the minimum number of regular meetings in a calendar year from 46 to 70.

Statement For Statement Against

This proposed amendment removes the prohibition upon the Council having more than one regular meeting each week and increases the minimum number of annual regular meetings from 46 to 70. This would allow for additional regular meetings more than once a week if the council decides. Furthermore, it would open more opportunities to engage with the public for public comment especially for time sensitive topics and topics of significant consequence that require more discussion. Having more opportunities to weigh in on these discussions would increase public participation in the deliberation of agenda topics.

Committee Members: Maricres

Castro

Allow for more than one regular meeting a week for City Council maricresvaldezcastro@gmail.com

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Special Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 3

Limitations Upon Sale or Transfer of Waterfront Property

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41479 to amend Section 9.1 of the City Charter concerning the sale or transfer of City-owned waterfront property. This proposed amendment would allow sale or other transfer of City-owned waterfront property only to other public agencies with a guarantee that the property will stay in public ownership and be used only for park purposes, park structures, or open space in perpetuity. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Section 9.1 of the City Charter currently provides that the City shall never authorize the sale or disposition of any waterfront property belonging to the City. This prohibition applies to any sale or disposition regardless of the purpose of the sale or disposition, the conditions of the sale or disposition or who the recipient of the waterfront property will be. The proposed amendment would remove this absolute prohibition by authorizing the sale or disposition of waterfront property owned by the City, but only to a public agency with a guarantee that the waterfront property will remain in public ownership with public access forever, and that the property will always be used for park purposes, park structures or open space.

Statement For Statement Against

Make waterfront parks permanent:

Metro Parks has provided nationally recognized parks and recreation services to Tacomans since 1907. However, Point Defiance Park and many of the waterfront parks along Ruston Way are legally owned by the City of Tacoma, which pays Metro Parks to operate them. This Charter amendment has a simple goal – make a small change to enable the City to transfer legal ownership of these parklands to your trusted parks provider.

Perpetual public access and public benefit: This Charter amendment was carefully written to ensure that waterfront parklands can only be used “for park purposes, park structures, or open space in perpetuity.”

Proven track record:

The City has successfully transferred other parks to Metro Parks ownership, including Catherine Ushka’s Gas Station Park, Wright Park and Garfield Park.

Our promise to you:

We are fiercely protective of our incredible waterfront parks in Tacoma. On behalf of all Board of Park Commissioners, we are fully committed to preserving Tacoma’s waterfront park access forever.

Rebuttal

We appreciate the concerns. That’s the point of this Charter amendment! As your elected Park Commissioners, we set a goal with the City of Tacoma to transfer ownership of Cityowned parklands to Metro Parks. Providing parks and open spaces will always be at the core of Metro Parks Tacoma’s community mission. Vote yes on Charter Amendment No. 3 to guarantee that Tacoma’s incredible waterfront is preserved for your park use forever.

Committee Members: Andrea Smith, Tim Reid, Aaron Pointer YesforTacomaParks@gmail.com

“Limitations” is misleading:

This change would instead now allow for the sale or transfer of City-owned waterfront.

For decades, our charter states: “The City shall never authorize the sale or disposition of any waterfront property...” The Charter Review Committee vote had soundly upheld “never” selling, yet Metro Parks still proposed City Council forward this change, despite ongoing concerns such as: no guarantee of “forever/perpetuity”, treaty legalities, and especially that “public agency” includes others than Metro Parks.

Too rushed and too many unknowns:

The broad wording gives no clarification of “park purposes” plus opens selling to other entities (as has been done with city and park lands) which certainly could then change environmental and access protections.

To guarantee public access “forever”, we must retain city ownership, especially of precious waterfront. Contracting with Metro Parks instead (as is done at various parks in Tacoma) is worth not losing City ownership or control of critical shoreline. Vote no!

Rebuttal

Selling/transferring Point Defiance is no “small” change! “Park purposes” could mean development, entrance fees. History shows “perpetuity” is not guaranteed and “public agency” is too broad. “Trusted/track record?” Park Boards have reversed promises, selling property despite prior plans. City of Tacoma seems attempting quick budget fixes but (having acknowledged protection of First Peoples’ stolen land) sales/transfers open potential lawsuits and could cost us more, long run. Stop selling City assets! Vote no!

Committee Members: Heidi Stephens, Maricres Castro STEGreenZone@gmail.com

Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 4

Duties and Authority of Council Members

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41474 concerning Council time commitment and authority to retain staff. This measure would add a new section to the Charter to clarify the work commitments of Council Members and authorize Council Members to employ or contract with personnel to report to and advise or assist the Council. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Article II of the City Charter establishes the City Council as the legislative and governing body of the City and authorizes the City Council to exercise all powers of the City. Article II does not directly address the duty of individual Council Members in both their legislative and governing capacity and does not explicitly authorize the Council Members to retain and direct administrative staff to support them in carrying out their legislative duties and functions. If approved, this amendment would add a new section to Article II of the City Charter that would require Council Members to prioritize their City Council work and devote sufficient time to carry out their duties. This amendment would also authorize Council Members to employ or contract for personnel who will directly report to and advise and assist the Council Members in carrying out their legislative duties and functions.

Statement For

Tacoma’s needs are not being met

In the next twenty years Tacoma’s population is estimated to grow by over 100,000 new residents, and as the city grows their needs will increase in both number and complexity. Our City Council is limited by its current staffing structure from effectively addressing these needs.

Council staff must be hired independently Council staff are currently hired, assigned, and managed by the City Manager, an unelected executive. Tacoma deserves more than a part-time, partially staffed Council with no choice in selecting the personnel assigned to its members or the priorities for which they will be responsible. This amendment, approved unanimously by the Charter Review Committee, would allow the Council to hire and manage its own staff, solidifying its policy-making and legislative independence, and ability to respond to the needs of constituents.

Council should consider itself full-time This amendment would provide the Council with the ability to prioritize its work, fully carry out its expanding responsibilities, and respond more effectively to its constituents.

Rebuttal

The Opposition acknowledges that our Council needs the authority to hire and manage its own independent staff. While the proposed amendment does not use the word “full-time,” its requirement that Councilmembers have their own staff and must fully carry out their duties comports with the Charter Review Commission’s unanimous recommendation This provides the necessary foundation and flexibility for the Council to transition into a full-time body as Tacoma’s population, size, and residents’ needs rapidly grow.

Committee Members: Nicholas Carr, Rebecca Stith, Jason Gauthier Committee in Support of an Empowered Council charterreviewcarr@outlook.com

Statement Against

This proposition 4 covers two areas that include the duties of the City Council members and changes proposed with the staff available to the Council members. For the first part, the wording is vague as it does not provide clarification of the City Council Members work schedule or work duties. Some Council Members may continue to work at a full time work status while other Council members will work at a part time status.

The second part of this proposition addresses valid staffing concerns. In any City, Council members require staff to assist them with completing work duties in a timely and accurate manner. Currently, the Tacoma City Council members do not have access to staff that work exclusively for them.  The Council Members need to have staff available consistently which would be provided with this Proposition 4.

Rebuttal

City Council members need to be able to hire staff who report directly to the Council Members.  Hopefully, with the Council members’ ability to directly hire their own required staff,  the Council members will be better able to then assess their work duties and determine the time commitments required for effectively representing their constituents.

Committee Members: Cathie J. Urwin cjrrd@hotmail.com

Special Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 5

Composition of the Planning Commission

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41475 to amend Section 3.8 of the City Charter concerning the composition of the Planning Commission. This proposed amendment would increase the number of members from nine to eleven, add a requirement for diversity of membership, and remove background requirements for atlarge appointments and the prohibition upon compensation. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Section 3.8 of the City Charter establishes the composition of the nine member Planning Commission and provides that the powers and duties of the Planning Commission shall be established by ordinance of the City Council. If approved, this amendment would increase the number of members of the Planning Commission from nine to eleven, require diversity among the individuals appointed to the Planning Commission, remove the background requirements for the Planning Commission members appointed by the City Council, and remove the prohibition upon compensation of Planning Commission members.

Statement For Statement Against

Proposed Charter Amendment 5 would increase the membership of the Planning Commission from 9 to 11. In addition, it is a call for the Council to ensure the appointments provide for diversity of Planning Commission members. The diversity should include race, ethnicity, gender, backgrounds, experiences, and expertise and must not be over-represented in any areas of expertise or experience. This amendment would allow for more flexibility in expertise of who the Council can appoint without being too overly prescriptive.

The membership of the Commission shall include one member shall be appointed by the City Council for each of the five council districts.

Rebuttal

Annually, the Planning Commission has struggled to fill their Planning Commissioner positions due to the restrictive nature of the requirements to serve. By broadening both the total number of Planning Commissioners as well as allowing for more flexibility for who can serve (while directly limiting overrepresented expertise in one field) would allow for more consistent participation and representation for the different communities and fields of expertise that each Planning Commissioner brings to the table.

Committee Members: Maricres Castro Expanding Membership of the Planning Committee maricresvaldezcastro@gmail.com

Vote No on Amendment Number 5

The proposed amendment to increase the Planning Commission from nine to eleven members seeks to address the city’s difficulties in managing workloads and finding qualified members. However, instead of expanding efforts to attract individuals with expertise in critical areas like environmental protection, affordable housing, public health, and transportation, this proposal dangerously removes all expertise criteria for members. This change risks filling the commission with individuals lacking the knowledge or commitment to prioritize residents’ health and well-being over profit in crucial urban planning decisions. While adding more members and allowing for compensation is a positive step, it should not come at the cost of losing essential criteria that ensure the inclusion of diverse voices representing community interests. We must insist on a Planning Commission that embodies diversity, responsibility, and expertise. Vote no to let the City Council know that we are not willing to sacrifice community-focused planning for convenience.

Rebuttal

Proposed Charter Amendment 5 suggests removing responsibility criteria offers flexibility, but this approach is misguided and risky. While promoting diversity in appointments is crucial, it should not come at the cost of losing essential voices focused on Tacoma’s community needs. We can achieve both diversity and community attentiveness. Defining criteria is not overly prescriptive; it safeguards against allowing profit-driven interests to overshadow vital perspectives. Vote no to protect our city’s future.

Committee Members: Latasha Palmer ljp2164@columbia.edu

Central Pierce Prop 1

Special Election - Proposed Charter Amendment No. 6

Changing Term Limits for Future Elected Council Members

Ballot Title

The Tacoma City Council adopted Resolution No. 41473 to amend Section 2.35 of the City Charter concerning term limits. This proposed amendment would change how long City officials elected in or after year 2025 may remain in office by increasing term limits from 10 consecutive years to three full consecutive four-year terms. This change would not apply to City elected officials holding office during the 2025 General Election. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Section 2.35 of the City Charter prohibits any person from serving in any single elective office for Tacoma or any combination of elective office for Tacoma for a period longer than 10 consecutive years. If passed, this amendment would change this prohibition from 10 consecutive years to three full consecutive terms of office but would only apply this change to persons elected at or after the Municipal General Election in the year 2025. Any person already holding elective office in Tacoma at the time of the Municipal General Election in 2025 would continue to be subject to the limit of 10 consecutive years in office.

Statement For Statement Against

Proposed Charter Amendment No. 6 is about expanding term limits to allow for a person to serve on the Council for no more than ten (10)  three (3) consecutive years full terms, either as a Council Member, Mayor, or combination thereof. This is a positive change for our Charter because it is practical to expand term limits as newly elected officials often take a few years to become adjusted to their new position of authority. That adjustment period for understanding and exercising their roles and responsibilities in office will hopefully lead to greater service to the constituents that elected them in the first place, especially in how they build rapport and trust within the communities they serve. Additionally, expansion of term limits would yield a slower turnover of institutional knowledge being lost.

Rebuttal

No rebuttal statement was submitted for this issue.

Committee Members: Maricres Castro Expansion of Term Limits maricresvaldezcastro@gmail.com

Systemic career politicians are not healthy for our political arena. We witness many of our elected officials becoming complacent and eventually creating a familiarity that breeds contempt towards their constituents when their voices want to be heard. Extended term limits also creates an environment where transparency is lost. We witness this at every level of government today. This Proposition is an attempt to extend the Tacoma Mayor’s term limits from 2 terms (8 years) to 3 terms (12 years) without the vote of the people. Rotating seats allows new ideas and voices to emerge from our community. Please vote no on Proposition 6.

Rebuttal

This Charter Amendment’s most notable goal is to increase the Mayoral term limits from 2 full terms (8 years) to 3 full terms (12 years).  The last thing our community needs is more institutionalized elected officials getting complacent and forgetting why they ran for office in Tacoma.  With increased Mayoral term limits, fresh ideas and diverse viewpoints could be discouraged.  Please vote no on this Proposition 6

Committee Members: Cathie J. Urwin, Donna Walters cjrrd@hotmail.com, lauradawn412@gmail.com

Ballot Title

This proposition provides for stable funding for law enforcement and other essential city services. This proposition increases the city’s regular property tax rate by $.58 to a total authorized rate of $1.28 per $1,000 of assessed value collected in 2025. This levy would be used for subsequent levy limits. Taxpayers qualifying for an exemption under RCW 84.36.381 are exempt from the increase. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

The City of Edgewood is currently taxing well below its maximum allowable rate of $1.60 per $1,000 of assessed value and is seeking voter approval to increase the levy to $1.28 per $1,000 of assessed value. This additional funding will be used to retain law enforcement staffing levels and to maintain other essential city services.

A levy lid lift allows the City to increase the property tax levy rate more than the current 1% annual limit. With inflation running much higher than 1% annually, the City cannot maintain existing service levels for police or keep up with rising labor and materials costs for other essential city services.

This proposition increases the City’s levy rate by approximately $.58 per $1,000 of assessed value for collection in 2025 and would be used to calculate the statutory limitation for future levy increases. For the median Edgewood home value of $625,000 this levy would add about $30 in property taxes per month. Low-income seniors and lowincome disabled homeowners may qualify for an exemption from this increase.

Statement For

This year’s Levy Lid Lift request to the voters was passed by the Edgewood City Council with a unanimous 7-0 vote, with the full support of the Mayor.

The proposed property tax would provide our city with a dependable, steady source of funding necessary to maintain proper staffing levels for police that are currently one of the lowest officer per citizen ratios of any city in the state. It would also help the city provide the essential government services our citizens expect.

Fortunately, 100% of the funds raised will stay in the City of Edgewood to be used exclusively for the citizens of Edgewood.

Please vote yes to ensure Edgewood remains one of the safest and most beloved communities in the Puget Sound region.

Committee Members: Rod Ray, Chris Ray, Diane Nelson roray@mlr-law.com

Statement Against

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Ballot Title

The Town of Wilkeson Town Council adopted Ordinance 2024.03 regarding an increase in the Town’s permanent Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Property Tax Levy. If approved, the measure will continue to fund EMS, by restoring the Town’s EMS Levy to $0.50/$1,000.00 of assessed valuation for collection in 2025; authorizing an annual increase of up to 6% annually, not to exceed $0.50/$1,000.00, for 2026-2030; and authorizing the 2030 levy amount as the basis to calculate subsequent levies, per RCW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

The Town of Wilkeson contracts EMS services through an interlocal agreement with the City of Buckley Fire Department. Buckley Fire Department, which includes Wilkeson and Carbonado Fire Departments, responded to requests for emergency medical care, fire suppression, rescue and other emergencies in Wilkeson, 34 times in 2023, with 68% for medical aid. The City of Buckley responded 1530 times across all jurisdictions in 2023. However, while firefighters are responding to more calls, the statutorily approved $0.50 EMS levy rate has fallen to just under $0.26 in 2024. Revenue raised by the measure provides sustainable funding for emergency medical purposes. If this measure fails, EMS rates will continue eroding further each year.

A taxpayer with an average home value of $460,000 would anticipate an increased tax of $9.20 per month.

If approved by voters, this measure authorizes the Town of Wilkeson to restore the levy rate of $0.50 per $1000 of assessed property value. It would allow the levy dollar amount to increase by up to 6% in the succeeding five years, but the rate cannot exceed $0.50 even if properties increase in value. The dollar amount of the levy in 2030 would be used to calculate future levy increase limits.

Statement For Statement Against

In 2017, voters passed a permanent lid lift, with the understanding that the levy rate would be maintained year after year at the cap of $0.50/ 1,000 assessed value. Due to regulatory changes, the levy amount previously authorized has declined to almost half of the amount that voters last approved, while the costs associated with this service have increased.

The City of Buckley Fire Department provides exceptional service to the Town of Wilkeson, with response times averaging 4 minutes. as well as providing mutual aid to our neighboring communities.

The best way to ensure this is funded is to levy taxes specifically for EMS services. We must increase the EMS levied amount, back to $0.50/ $1,000 AV to ensure they’re funded at an adequate level. A yes vote will restore funding to the rates previously approved by voters and ensures continued delivery of life saving care.

Committee Members: Jayme Peloli

EMS Levy Support Committee ems-support@townofwilkeson.com www.townofwilkeson.com

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Central Pierce Prop 1 Sumner-Bonney Lake School District No. 320

Special Election - Proposition No. 1 - Bonds for K-12 Expanded Student Capacity, School Improvements and Safety Upgrades

Ballot Title

The Board of Directors of Sumner-Bonney Lake School District No. 320 adopted Resolution No. 23/23-24, concerning expanded K-12 capacity and school improvements to relieve student overcrowding.

If approved, Proposition No. 1 would authorize the District to: expand/improve two High Schools; add Middle School in Tehaleh; improve five Elementary Schools; update learning technology; expand career/technical education; replace aging roofs; improve ADA accessibility; improve mechanical for clean air/water; add turf fields for students/community; improve health/safety/security; issue $732,000,000 of general obligation bonds maturing within 21 years; and levy annual excess property taxes to repay the bonds, all as provided in Resolution No. 23/23-24. Should this proposition be approved or rejected?

Explanatory Statement

Proposition 1 authorizes school improvements in learning and teaching environments that support student achievement and relieve student overcrowding at nearly all schools.  Proposition 1 would expand/improve Bonney Lake and Sumner High Schools, add a Middle School in Tehaleh, add security and classroom improvements at Crestwood and Liberty Ridge, add classrooms at Tehaleh Heights, and make needed improvements at Daffodil Valley and Donald Eismann.

Proposition 1 would expand career/technical education opportunities and make basic improvements that extend school life and save future improvement costs including: up-to-date classrooms; replace leaking/deteriorating roofs; exterior improvements to prevent weather or mold damage; multi-use turf fields for year-round playability for students/community; plumbing/mechanical upgrades for clean air and safe water.

Proposition 1 will implement Basic Life Safety, ADA accessibility, earthquake safety, up-to-date technology, and security upgrades at new or improved schools including controlled school entry, updated fire alarm/sprinkler, and intercom systems. The $732,000,000 of general obligation bonds would mature within a maximum term of 21 years and be repaid from annual excess property tax levies. If approved, the District would be eligible for approximately $55 million state construction matching funds that would save additional future improvement costs. For more information www.sumnersd.org/vote.

Statement For Statement Against

Reduces Overcrowding, Space for More Students

Our schools are overcrowded. Proposition 1 helps fix that. Your yes vote means more space for our kids to learn and excel. With our fast-growing community, this is essential!

Invests in Necessary Building

Improvements

A yes vote transforms our schools: replaces roofs, protects buildings from weather, expands career and tech education spaces, updates technology, upgrades plumbing and mechanical systems, and makes sports fields safer for yearround use. Plus, we’ll finish Sumner HS, expand Bonney Lake HS, add a middle school, and improve five elementary schools.

Increases Safety, Accessibility, and Security Districtwide Proposition 1 boosts safety with controlled entries, better alarms, earthquake safety measures, and improved accessibility for everyone.

Vote Yes! No Tax Rate Increase

The best part? There’s no tax rate increase. Let’s invest in our kids and community now. Delaying improvements will cost us more in the future. Together we can make our schools better for all our kids and the whole community! Join us in voting yes for Proposition 1.

Committee Members: Bill Pugh, Randy Kroum, Georgia Lomax

Sumner-Bonney Lake Citizens for Schools

Yes4SumnerBonneyLakeSchools@gmail.com www.yes4sumnerbonneylakeschools.org

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Ballot Title

The Board of Directors of Orting School District No. 344 adopted Resolution #6.2023-2024 concerning a proposition for bonds to finance capital improvements.

This proposition would authorize construction of a new Orting Elementary School; expansion and renovation of Orting High School for Career and Technical Education and STEM learning; safety and security updates to Orting Middle School and Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary; expansion of Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary; repayment of debt; and addition of temporary facilities; by issuing $119,200,000 of general obligation bonds maturing within 20 years; and levying excess property taxes annually to repay the bonds, as described in Resolution #6.2023-2024. Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement

Passage of Proposition 1 would allow Orting School District to finance critical facility needs by issuing bonds. If voters approve this proposition, the District will use the bond proceeds to construct a new, replacement Orting Elementary School, and a 200 student addition to, along with the renovation of, Orting High School for Career and Technical Education and STEM learning. The District will also use bond proceeds to expand cafeteria and PE/ Health facilities at Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary, make safety, health and security improvements to Orting Middle School and Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary, refinance the acquisition of land for the new Orting Elementary School, and add temporary student facilities to accommodate growth.

If voters approve this proposition, the District expects to receive approximately $11,300,000 in state construction assistance funds to complete these projects. The $119,200,000 of general obligation bonds would mature within 20 years, and be repaid from annual excess property tax levies. The excess levy rate is estimated to be approximately $1.51 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Homeowners who are 61 years or older or disabled, and who meet low-income requirements may qualify for a property tax exemption. For information regarding exemptions, call the Pierce County Assessor at (253) 798-6111.

Statement For

What does this bond achieve?

This bond will construct a new 600 student Orting Elementary, remodel and expand facilities at Orting High School for Career and Technical Education, expand cafeteria and gymnasium facilities at Ptarmigan Ridge and make safety and security improvements at Orting Middle and Ptarmigan Ridge including keyless access, auto-lockdown and HVAC improvements.

Why is this bond necessary?

Growing student populations have put our current facilities beyond capacity. This bond provides necessary space to accommodate all students. The district secured $11.3 million in State funding to lower costs to residents. The 2006 bond, paid off in 2022, cost $2.81/$1,000 in assessed valuation. At $1.51, this bond is more affordable, makes vital improvements in our schools and prepares students for careers in local trades and industry. Invest in the future of our children and our community!

Vote “Yes” for the Orting Bond

Committee Members: Eddie Jezek, Becca Pettit, Lucinda Creasy eddie@local86.org

Statement Against

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Central Pierce Prop 1

Auburn School District No. 408

Special Election - Proposition No. 1 - School Construction and Facility Improvements

General Obligation Bonds - $532,100,000

Ballot Title

The Board of Directors of Auburn School District No. 408 approved a proposition for bonds. This proposition would authorize the District to replace and equip Cascade Middle School and Alpac Elementary School; construct and equip a new Middle School No. 5; undertake school and support facility improvements to reduce overcrowding and improve safety and building systems; to issue $532,100,000 of general obligation bonds maturing within a maximum term of 20 years, and to levy excess property taxes annually to repay the bonds, all as provided in Resolution No. 1394. Should this proposition be approved or rejected?

Explanatory Statement

The Board of Directors of Auburn School District No. 408 adopted Resolution No. 1394 approving a proposition for bonds to reduce overcrowding and improve safety and critical building systems. This authorizes the District to replace and equip Cascade Middle School; replace and equip Alpac Elementary School; construct and equip a new Middle School #5; undertake capital improvements to schools and support buildings throughout the District, to issue $532,100,000 of general obligation bonds maturing within a maximum of 20 years, and to collect excess property taxes annually to repay the bonds, as provided in Resolution No. 1394.

Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call your County Assessor.

Statement For Statement Against

We urge a Yes vote for this bond. It will provide a necessary new middle school to accommodate the increasing number of students and replace Cascade Middle School and Alpac Elementary.

Auburn School District administration’s prudent fiscal management, retiring debt, and on-time and onbudget construction demonstrate accountability to district voters. Based on these prudent fiscal policies, the impact to your tax rate will be $.81￠ per $1,000 of assessed value, or $37.13 per month on a $550,000 home.

District voters have time and again demonstrated overwhelming support for school funding; we ask you to again invest in the infrastructure of our schools to keep our children thriving. There is no relief or plan in place from Olympia for fully funding education in the state. Auburn has consistently invested in education and our students’ success –Please vote Yes for this bond to keep Auburn’s schools strong.

Rebuttal

The voters in Auburn SD should not be swayed by out of district, out of county opinions and guessing at our community’s needs.

A capital levy is not practical in Auburn. The assessed value of the homes is not high enough to build these needed schools. The District has spaced out bonds to keep the tax rate as level as possible. Please prioritize children by making sure they have a good learning environment. AuburnCitizens4schools@gmail.com

Committee Members: Cari Manry, Jason Wright, Maggie Keller

Auburn Citizens for Schools

auburncitizens4schools@gmail.com www.auburncitizens4schools.com

The district found pro committee members but no con committee members for the voters’ pamphlet. So I volunteered via the county to help provide some balance so that voters are presented with both sides of the issue – kinda like democracy.

The district’s cost analysis is about 150% too low. The owner of a property with a 2024 Tax Year AV of $550,000, can expect a tax obligation, for just this bond, of $1,200 per year on average for the next 22 years.

This bond is being run a year too early. The bond schedule shows taxes won’t start to be collected until 2026. Also, the Auburn SD should be moving away from high interest bonds and use well-planned, frugal, interest-free, 6-year, capital levies as other districts are practicing. The bond management company has estimated bond interest alone will be $459M on top of the advertised bond principal of $532M for an actual total to local property taxpayers of $991M.

And local property taxpayers are already on the hook to continue payments on the existing bond’s remaining total payments of $612M that won’t be paid off until 2040. For a logical, mathematically correct cost analysis, see BondNo.com

It is disconcerting to hear school districts using incorrect mathematics in their fiscal arguments for their own tax measures. This is why there are checks and balances such as pro and con committees. This is why legislators need to apply the Truth In Lending Act (TILA) policies to school district bonds and levies. Taxpayers deserve accurate information. We are not voting on guesstimated future tax rates. We are voting on amounts in dollars.

Committee Members: Jeff Heckathorn BondNo.com

Rebuttal

Ballot Title

Shall Pierce County Fire Protection District No. 3 (West Pierce Fire & Rescue) be authorized to impose benefit charges each year for six years, not to exceed an amount equal to sixty percent of its operating budget, and be prohibited from imposing an additional property tax under RCW 52.16.160?

Explanatory Statement

West Pierce Fire & Rescue (District) is transitioning from a primarily levy-based funding structure to a Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) structure. For decades, District voters have supported levy-based funding. However, research and evaluation show that the FBC more fairly distributes funding based on factors other than a structure’s assessed value.

The Fire Benefit Charge is not a tax, but rather a fee based on square footage, property use, and fire risk factors. If this measure passes, the District may not impose a fire tax levy in excess of $1.00 per $1,000 in assessed valuation. If this measure passes, property taxes will be reduced by eliminating the District’s current four-year Maintenance & Operations levy and reducing the Regular Levy.

The District is a fully paid fire district, providing fire suppression, emergency medical treatment and transport, hazardous materials and technical rescue response, water rescue, fire prevention, and code enforcement throughout University Place and Lakewood. The District’s current regular and EMS levies are insufficient to adequately fund fire and emergency medical services to two highly urbanized cities. This FBC will fund approximately 40% of the District’s operating budget.

Statement For

Current taxing methods unfairly burden residential homeowners.  Property taxes are not the only way to fund a fire department.  A Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) is an equitable and more objective way to fund the fire department based on the size of a building and how it is used, rather than its assessed value.

The value of someone’s property has nothing to do with what it takes to protect their property during a fire.  Some of the largest commercial businesses in the community pay less to the fire department than many homeowners.  It is time to level the playing field and reduce the property taxes homeowners are paying.

Adequately funding the fire department is vital to maintaining a vibrant community.  By utilizing an FBC, property taxes will be decreased, and long-term stability of the fire department will be increased.

An FBC will lower property taxes.  Vote yes and reduce property taxes!

Committee Members: Michael Cameron, Bryan Copeland, Bart Dalton Citizens for West Pierce Fire & EMS citizensforwpfe@gmail.com

Statement Against

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Ballot Title

The Board of Fire Commissioners of Pierce County Fire Protection District No. 16 adopted Resolution No. 07-24-818 concerning a proposition to finance maintenance and operation expenses.

This proposition, if approved, will authorize the District to levy, without regard to the dollar rate and percentage limitations imposed by chapter 84.52 RCW, a property tax upon all taxable property within the District of:

Approximate Rate per

$1,000 of Assessed Value

$0.17

$0.17

$0.17

$0.17 Levy Amount

$800,000

$800,000

$800,000

$800,000

to be used for maintenance and operations to maintain the current level of fire services and emergency medical services as provided in Resolution No. 07-24-818. Should this proposition be approved? Collection Year

Explanatory Statement

The Key Peninsula Fire Department is requesting renewal of a maintenance and operation levy (M&O levy), in the amount of $800,000, for a period of four years. The fire district’s call volume has increased by approximately 38% since 2016, and present revenues are insufficient to keep up with this increased demand. Non-renewal of the M&O levy will result in a reduction in staff and other cuts.

If renewed, the M&O levy will be in addition to the District’s regular and EMS tax levies for a four-year period. Based on current assessed valuations, the District estimates that the levy rate necessary to generate sufficient funds in 2024 will be approximately seventeen cents ($0.17) per thousand dollars of assessed valuation. In subsequent years the levy rate will decrease if assessed values increase.

If this M&O levy is approved by the voters, the law prohibits any further M&O levies from 2024-2028. Key Peninsula voters have approved four-year M&O levies for the fire district before, in 2012, 2016 and 2020. This election allows for renewal of the M&O levy from 2024-2028.

Statement For

This is not a new tax.

Without asking for increased funds, and maintaining the existing M&O Levy, your Key Peninsula Fire Department will remain best equipped for a variety of responses; service requests, water rescues, auto accidents, fires, rope rescues, HazMat, and medical needs. Your department utilizes the $800,000 levied funds annually to maintain staffing numbers, improve and carry out training of its employees, maintenance of emergency vehicles, and aging station infrastructure.

With industry unpredictability, it is imperative for your fire department to be trained and equipped as such; you and the community won’t know when you’ll need them! With increasing call volumes (up 39% since 2016!), proposed industry changes, and infrastructure developments, a “no” vote could negatively impact any community member’s call for help, when the day comes.

A ”yes” vote will ensure the safety of the public you call home, protecting you and your community!

Committee Members: Evan Aas yes4kpfd@outlook.com

Statement Against

No statement was submitted against this issue.

Ballot Title

Will Pierce County Fire District 26 be re-authorized to impose regular property tax levies of fifty cents (50¢) or less per thousand dollars ($1,000.00) of assessed valuation for each of ten consecutive years to continue providing for emergency medical services?

Explanatory Statement

Pierce County Fire District 26 is placing a measure on the November ballot for re-authorization of the District’s emergency medical services levy (“EMS Levy”). The current EMS Levy expires on December 31, 2024. Re-authorization of the EMS Levy will continue funding emergency medical services throughout the District. The EMS Levy funds will continue to maintain emergency medical personnel, training, equipment, supplies, vehicles and facilities.

Passage of Proposition No. 1 will extend the current EMS Levy for an additional ten years at the current rate of up to .50 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation. At the rate of $.50/$1,000, the owner of a home assessed at $400,000 pays $200.00 per year ($16.67 per month) to ensure timely emergency medical response and ambulance transportation to area hospitals, when necessary.

Statement For

The voters of pcfd26 voted to install an EMS levy in 1981. They have voted to maintain it ever since. This year (2024), our current EMS levy ends. The fire department would like to continue an EMS presence in the community. Your fire department is an all-volunteer department, but needs your support to continue EMS funding.

This levy, if approved, would be for $.50 per thousand dollars of assessed value. This is the same as it has been throughout our history of supplying EMS services. The tax amount would remain based on the 2024 home valuations for the next 10 years. State law only allows department revenue to increase 1% per year, without voter approval. PCFD-26’s costs increase quite a bit more than this. The loss of the EMS levy would greatly reduce the ability of the department’s ability to effectively operate.

Committee Members: James D. Harte, Trevor Nicely, Jason Steel jimharte58@gmail.com, 253-350-5848

Statement Against

No statement was submitted against this issue.