Debate over proposed Rules of Procedure changes raises questions about independence, accountability, and representation on regional boards
The Clark County Council is considering new language in its Rules of Procedure that would require councilors serving on boards and commissions to vote in line with the council’s official position. The discussion follows last year’s removal of Councilor Michelle Belkot from the C-TRAN board after she said she would vote independently on light rail-related costs. Supporters of the proposed changes say they would clarify authority and ensure a unified voice, while critics argue they would undermine independent judgment and voter representation. This poll asks readers where they stand on that question.
More info:
County Council still looking to change language in Rules of Procedure
Clark County Council members continued debating proposed changes to the Rules of Procedure tied to last year’s removal of Michelle Belkot from the C-TRAN board, including...
Read more
Also read:
- Opinion: The income tax proposal has arrived
Ryan Frost of the Washington Policy Center argues that a proposed Washington income tax creates a new revenue stream rather than delivering tax reform or relief. - Opinion: ‘If they want light rail, they should be the ones who pay for it’
Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance argues that supporters of light rail tied to the I-5 Bridge replacement should bear the local cost of operating and maintaining the system through a narrowly drawn sub-district. - POLL: If a sub-district is created, what area should it include?
Clark County residents are asked where a potential C-TRAN sub-district should be drawn if voters are asked to fund light rail operations and maintenance costs. - Opinion: IBR falsely blaming inflation
Joe Cortright argues that inflation explains only a small portion of the IBR project’s cost increases and that rising consultant and staff expenses are the primary drivers. - Letter: The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program’s $141 million bribe can be better spent on sandwich steel-concrete tubes
Bob Ortblad argues that an immersed tunnel using sandwich steel-concrete tubes would be a more cost-effective alternative to the current Interstate Bridge Replacement Program design.
No, they should be required to vote the will of the people. Article 1 of the WA State Constitution says: “All political power is inherent in the people, and governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, and are established to protect and maintain individual rights.” That means, if they know the will of the people then they are bound to vote accordingly. That is what Michelle did. And she was absolutely in the right to do so. The OTHER Councillors were in the wrong to insist that she vote the way THEY wanted her to vote, instead of the people. As a fact, EVERY Council District voted to require a vote of the people before spending money on Light Rail. The other Councillors are in VIOTATION OF THEIR OATH OF OFFICE TO UPHOLD THE WA STATE CONSTITUTION!