Article By Greg Thames
Proposed Amendment #11
Require Salaries for Charter Review Commissioners
Proposed by Maya Morales
Description: Make charter review commissioner a paid county position with a salary determined by the county’s Salary Commission. Reimburse charter review commissioners for out-of-pocket expenses.
At the next meeting of the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, Commissioner Maya Morales will introduce a significant proposal: to transition the commission from a volunteer-based body to a salaried one. This change would mean that the 15 commissioners, who currently serve without pay, would receive compensation determined by the county’s Salary Commission.
What is the Charter Review Commission?
Whatcom County’s Charter Review Commission is a group of local residents who meet periodically to review the county’s “charter.” Think of the charter as a rulebook for how the county government runs. They propose changes to make the county government work better.
Overview of the Proposed Change
The Voters in Whatcom County will decide on a big change for how the Charter Review Commission works. Right now, commissioners are volunteers serving the community and don’t get paid. The proposal would change that, making it a salaried position, with the pay decided by the county’s Salary Commission.
How It Works Now: Volunteer Commissioners
Washington State has “home rule counties,” which means they have more control over their own local laws. These counties have Charter Review Commissions. Right now, counties like Clallam, Clark, King, Pierce, San Juan, and Snohomish all have volunteer commissioners. They don’t get paid, but they can get money back for things like travel expenses.
Why Pay Commissioners? Potential Benefits
One of the main reasons to pay commissioners is to expand civic participation. Currently, being a commissioner is a volunteer role, which can make it difficult for individuals with limited financial flexibility to participate. Making it a salaried position could:
- Bring in people with different backgrounds and experiences.
- Make it possible for people who are struggling financially to serve.
- Ensure the commission represents everyone in the county.
Consider the example of a single parent working multiple jobs. They might have valuable insights but lack the time and resources to volunteer. A salary could remove this barrier.
Additionally, paying commissioners could professionalize the role. It would recognize the significant time commitment involved, potentially attract candidates with specialized expertise, and enhance the perceived importance of the commission.
Concerns and Things to Consider
A significant concern revolves around the financial implications. With 15 commissioners potentially receiving a salary, the cost to taxpayers would substantially increase. This raises questions about the overall budget impact and whether the added expense is justified.
Additionally, there’s a worry that commissioners’ decisions could become politicized, potentially leading to decisions influenced by personal agendas rather than the community’s best interests. Furthermore, some fear it would diminish the tradition of volunteer public service, a cornerstone of local governance. Lastly, the matter of establishing a suitable and equitable compensation level for such a position must be addressed.
Different Perspectives
Those with a conservative viewpoint emphasize fiscal responsibility, preserving the tradition of volunteer service, and avoiding unnecessary government expansion. Conversely, progressive arguments highlight the importance of equitable access to civic participation, professionalizing governance roles, and recognizing the commissioners’ substantial workload.
Other Options
If full salaries are not preferred, alternative approaches could be considered. These include enhanced expense reimbursement, flexible meeting schedules, professional development opportunities, or modest stipends.
The Legal Side
While there’s no legal mandate for paid commissioners, doing so could promote equity and inclusion, align with modern governance practices, and increase transparency and accountability.
Why This Matters
This proposal is about more than just money. It raises fundamental questions about:
- Who gets to be part of local government?
- How do we show that we value people who serve the community?
- What stops people from getting involved in their community?
- How much will this increase taxes to pay for it?
- Is a volunteer centered government dead?
Conclusion:
If the charter commission decides by a supermajority vote to place this amendment on the ballot. Whatcom County voters have a choice. Paying commissioners could make the commission more accessible and professional, but it also costs additional money and changes decades of tradition.
It’s up to the community to decide: How do we make sure our local government is fair, represents everyone, and works well?
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