Clark County Today begins a series featuring Charter Review Commission candidates discussing the Home Rule Charter’s role in shaping local government ahead of the Nov. 4 general election.

Clark County Today begins a series of stories on the thoughts of candidates for the Charter Review Commission

Ken Vance, editor
Clark County Today

One of the most compelling elements of the Nov. 4 general election is the election of 15 individuals to serve on the Charter Review Commission.

Clark County voters approved the County Charter in 2014. Every five years, a Charter Review Commission is elected to review the County Charter. The last time this was done five years ago, many area residents were dismayed that only one conservative was elected to the commission. That conservative, former state representative Liz Pike, was so dismayed by the composition of the committee that she resigned her position shortly after the process began.

In the Nov. 4 general election, there are 35 candidates for the 15 positions, three in each of the five County Council districts. Clark County Today sent the same questions to each of the candidates and received responses from 11 candidates. Those responses will be shared in a series of stories this week.

This first story will allow the candidates to explain what role they believe the Home Rule Charter should play in shaping Clark County government, compared to state law and Council policy?

Here are their responses:

“The Charter is Clark County’s framework for local self-governance. It should be used as a tool to shape county government around Clark County’s current and local needs while staying within the limits of state and federal law. The Charter can strengthen local control and keep authority as close as possible to the community through the County Council, the branch of government most directly accountable to voters.’’ – Brandon Erickson (District 2, Position 1)

“Unlike standard code counties, the Home Rule Charter form of government allows the people of Clark County to shape and define their local government structure in the way they best see fit. Ultimately, any proposed amendments go to the people for approval. Therefore, it is up to the people to decide what issues to address and how broadly or specifically they want to address them. The people have a right to do so, unless the proposed amendment conflicts with State or Federal Law.’’ – Brad Benton (District 5, Position 1)

“The Home Rule Charter is specifically provided for under state law. The Charter cannot directly contradict state law. The Charter Review Commission will need to confer with qualified attorney(s) to assure that amendments sent to voters do not contradict state law. The Charter does not directly set policy, a function that is reserved to the elected Council.’’ – Ann Donnelly (District 1, Position 2)

“The last charter review commission demonstrated that we can in fact delve into what some are calling policy issues. I believe whatever the issue is, we can’t get too far into the weeds. The Charter is a “strategic” document if it is going to be used that way. It should remain mostly about roles and responsibilities, or check and balances.’’ – Peter Silliman (District 5, Position 3)

“The Home Rule Charter should serve as the foundation for Clark County government, defining its core structure, powers, and responsibilities. It allows the county to tailor governance to local needs within the framework of state law. Council policies implement the charter’s principles and guide day-to-day operations, making the charter the guiding blueprint while policies provide practical direction.’’ – John Jay (District 3, Position 3)

“The Clark County Home Rule Charter is a great opportunity to tailor Clark County’s civic process, and councilor and executive branch responsibilities. Even though the Councilors are our elected representatives, the citizens should still have reasonable access to propose amendments and initiatives between major elections. Further, as a growing County on the state border, we will face additional situations that state laws may not be responsive to.’’ – Bob Runnells (District 2, Position 2)

“A charter serves as the framework for local government, outlining its structure, responsibilities and governing principles. A charter is created by the citizens and defines key relationships between local government and the community including how officials are elected, the form of government and citizen involvement. A good home rule charter is written by being straightforward; consistent; thorough, but not restrictive; flexible; and focused on the fundamentals of good governance. Local governments that operate under home rule have broad powers that include control over things that the state legislatures have not specifically granted, and those things not specifically prohibited.’’ – Cathie Garber (District 2, Position 2)

“The Charter should define our local government’s structure and principles, aligning with state law while guiding County Council policies. Unlike state law’s broad scope or policies’ daily focus, the Charter must define priorities like public safety, fiscal discipline through measures like a super majority for tax increases, and enhanced public input, ensuring Clark County remains safe, affordable, and accountable.’’ – Jill Ross (District 3, Position 1)

“It provides the framework within which the Executive and Legislative branches operate, subject to the RCW and WA State Constitution. As such, as much leeway as possible needs to be granted to the Charter as it is closest to the citizenry. We are better governed when the governance is closest to the people.’’ – Kirk VanGelder (District 4, Position 3)

“By outlining the fundamental framework for county governance, the Charter shapes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of both elected officials and appointed administrators, distinguishing local policy from broader state mandates. The balance it creates between the County Council, which handles legislative functions, and the County Manager, entrusted with executive administration, is intended to ensure effective oversight and responsive service to residents. Concerns have been raised about whether this separation is functioning as intended, particularly regarding the Councilors’ ability to represent their constituents effectively. An ongoing evaluation of roles and procedures is essential to maintain transparency, accountability, and a dynamic relationship between the Charter, state law, and Council policy.’’ – Liz Cline (District 4, Position 1)

“The Home Rule Charter should serve as the foundational framework for Clark County government, ensuring accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to citizens. State law provides the boundaries, Council sets policy, and the Charter defines how those are carried out at the local level. It should empower citizens and keep government efficient and limited.’’ – Duncan Hoss (District 5, Position 2)

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