Introduction to the Local Voters Pamphlet General Election November 4, 2008

Transcription

1 Introduction to the Local Voters Pamphlet General Election November 4, 2008 Dear Kitsap County Voter, As citizens of this great country, we each have some responsibility for the quality and the effectiveness of our government. By becoming informed, by communicating our interests and concerns in a responsible way to our public officials, and by voting our conscience on Election Day, we promote and sustain the health of our democracy. On November 4 th, we elect a President and Vice-President, a Governor and a full slate of public officials for federal, state, and county offices. This voters pamphlet is designed to assist you in learning about the candidates and issues at the local level. The State Voters Pamphlet, published by the Secretary of State s Office, provides information about candidates for federal, state, and judicial offices. Additional information can also be found on our website We, in the Auditor s Office, are committed to facilitating your voting experience. Please feel free to contact us at (360) , or at the toll free numbers listed below with any questions you may have or for any assistance you may need. Like you, we take voting very seriously and we solicit your participation. I encourage you to take the time to examine the Sample Ballot located in this pamphlet. You can learn about the candidates and issues by checking both pamphlets before casting your vote. Good government can only be achieved with informed choices. In this historic 2008 election year, exercise your valuable right to vote and let your voice be heard! Sincerely, WALT WASHINGTON Kitsap County Auditor Pamphlet Contents Ballot Deposit Locations... 3 Ballot Measures Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District Proposition No Ballot Sample... 4 Candidate Statements County Commissioner District County Commissioner District Auditor... 9 Public Utility District No Elected Official Duties for Local Offices... 6 For Your Information... 2 How is the United States President Elected? Make Your Ballot Count... 3 Maps Political Party Information Voter Registration Information Contact Kitsap County Elections Division at: (360) (206) from Bainbridge Island (253) from Olalla Additional Sources of Information: League of Women Voters Kitsap County election returns and Local Voters Pamphlet Washington State election returns and State Voters Pamphlet Ballots arrive in the mail before October 23, 2008

2 For Your Information Presidential, Congressional, State, Legislative, and Judicial Candidates A state Voters Pamphlet, published by the Secretary of State, will include Presidential, congressional, all statewide office candidates as well as legislative, and judicial candidates. The state pamphlet will be delivered by the post office to all residents of Kitsap County and is also available online at Washington has a New Election System In each race for partisan office, the two candidates who receive the most votes in the August Primary advance to the November 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. Questions or Need a Replacement Ballot? If you have questions or your ballot is damaged or lost, a replacement ballot may be obtained by calling the Kitsap County Elections Division 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at: (360) (206) from Bainbridge Island (253) from Olalla Kitsap Votes By Mail Kitsap County voters elected to conduct all elections by mail as of Ballots are mailed to military and overseas voters 30 days prior to each election and to all other registered voters 20 days prior to each election. Voters may return voted ballots by mail or use designated ballot deposit sites. Your Right to Privacy Every voter has the right to vote his or her ballot in secret. Any person attempting to vote when he or she is not entitled, or who falsely signs the affidavit, shall be guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment for not more than five years or a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars, or both such fine, and imprisonment. Local Voters Pamphlet Advisory Committee The purpose of the Local Voters Pamphlet Advisory Committee is to establish a series of up to three questions for candidates appearing in the Local Voters Pamphlet to use in preparing responses. Members of the 2008 Local Voters Pamphlet Advisory Committee are: Ellen Fisher, Chair of Kitsap County League of Women Voters; Jeff Rhodes, Editor of the Port Orchard Independent; Jeff Brody, Managing Editor of Kitsap Sun; Carl Olson, Chair of Kitsap County Democratic Central Committee; Jack Hamilton, Chair of Kitsap County Republican Central Committee; and Jeanie Schulze, Citizen Representative. Candidate and Committee Statements The Local Voters Pamphlet includes statements submitted by candidates for offices and committees for and against ballot measures. Statements printed in this pamphlet are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for spelling, factual, or grammatical accuracy by any official government agency. Participating Jurisdictions Participating districts in this General Election Local Voters Pamphlet are Kitsap County, Public Utility District No. 1, and Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District. Disability Access Voting / Ballot Deposit Sites Federal and state law requires that all jurisdictions provide certified accessible voting devices which enable voters with disabilities to cast a ballot independently, and in private. Secure touch screen voting devices with audio capabilities and a voter verified paper trail are available for use in this General Election at the following voting and ballot deposit locations: Prior to Election Day Kitsap County Auditor Elections Division 619 Division Street, Port Orchard, October 15 th through November 3 rd Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Election Day from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Port Orchard Kitsap County Administrative Building, 619 Division Street, in the Port Blakely Conference Room Poulsbo Poulsbo Fire Station, 911 Liberty Road In addition to the locations listed above, the following locations will also be available for voting or ballot deposit at these specific dates and times: October 21 st Silverdale 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Clearbrook Inn, NW Schold Pl. 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Country Meadows, Country Meadows Ln. NW October 22 nd Bremerton 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Claremont East, 2707 Clare Ave. 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Bay Pointe, 966 Oyster Bay Ct. October 23 rd Port Orchard 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Stafford Suites, 1761 Pottery Ave. 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sydney House, 155 Lippert Dr. W October 24 th Bainbridge Island 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wyatt House, 186 Wyatt Way NW 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Madison Ave Retirement Center, 285 Madison Ave. S October 27 th Poulsbo 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Martha & Mary Health Services, Front St. NE 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Liberty Shores, Viking Ave. NW October 28 th Port Orchard 10:00 a.m. to noon Park Vista, 2944 SE Lund Ave. 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.washington Veterans Home, 1141 Beach Dr. E October 29 th Bremerton 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Canterbury Manor, 703 Callahan Dr. 1:15 to 3:15 p.m. The Vintage, 1717 Sheridan Rd. October 30 th Bremerton 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Cypress Gardens, th St. October 30 th Port Orchard 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Ridgemont Terrace, 2051 Pottery Ave. October 31 st Poulsbo 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Montclair Park, 1250 NE Lincoln Rd. October 31 st Silverdale 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Crista Shores, 1600 NW Crista Shores Ln. Write-ins Which Votes Can Be Counted General Election votes can only be counted if: The candidate has not already been defeated in the Primary, and The number of votes plus the number of under and over votes together could affect the outcome of the election.

3 Make Your Ballot Count Vote: Use a pencil or dark ink pen to connect the arrow by your choice with one single dark line. Your ballot is read by a machine that counts the marks you make between the arrows on your ballot. Marks that cover the arrows or marks outside the arrows delay the count of your ballot. Remove and discard the top ballot stub at the perforated line after you are finished voting. If you make a Mistake: Draw a line through the entire candidate s name or ballot measure response like this: Correct Just Right Incorrect Too Thick Too Light John Doe You then have the option of marking another choice if you wish. Secure: Never sign or print your name on the face of the ballot. Your signature should appear only on the lavender envelope. Place the voted ballot in the white secrecy envelope and seal it. Place the white secrecy envelope inside the lavender return envelope. Sign: Seal: Mail: Read and sign the Voter Affidavit on the lavender envelope. The lavender envelope must be signed by you in order for your ballot to be counted. Your signature is matched with your voter record. Seal the envelope so the privacy flap covers your signature as indicated on the envelope. Affix a first-class postage stamp before you deposit your ballot in the mail or take your ballot to one of the ballot deposit locations listed below. Don t let your vote be late in 2008 Mail your ballot early enough to ensure it is postmarked no later than November 4, 2008, Election Day. If you do not wish to return your ballot by mail, the following Ballot Deposit locations will be available: Prior to Election Day: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., County Administration Building in the Auditor s Office, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. 24 hr. Ballot Deposit, on the Division Street side of the County Administration Building, corner of Division and Cline, Port Orchard. Disability Access and Ballot Deposit Locations Listed on Page 2 of this pamphlet. Saturday, November 1, 2008, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Kitsap Mall in Silverdale in the parking lot by NW Randall Way next to JCPenney at the Vote Mobile Van. Ballot Deposit Locations Election Day only from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Bainbridge Island: Bainbridge Performing Arts Center, 200 Madison Avenue North, Bainbridge Island. Bremerton: Kitsap Regional Library, Meeting Room, 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton. Central Kitsap: Silverdale Community Center, Coho Room, 9729 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale. North Kitsap: Poulsbo Fire Station, 911 NE Liberty Road, Poulsbo. South Kitsap: Kitsap County Auditor Elections Division, 619 Division Street, Port Orchard. If You Have Not Received Your Ballot If you are eligible to vote in this General Election and have not received your ballot by October 23, 2008, please contact the Kitsap County Elections Division for a replacement at (360) , or (206) from Bainbridge Island, or (253) from Olalla. 3

4 Sample Ballot Sample Ballot - Kitsap County, Washington General - November 4, 2008 To Vote Your Ballot: Connect the arrow by your choice with one single dark line like this: If you sign or place your name on this ballot, it cannot be counted. To vote for a candidate whose name is not on the ballot, write the candidate's name in the space provided. If you make a mistake: Draw a line through the entire candidate name or ballot measure response like this: John Doe You then have the option of making another choice if you wish. Unless specifically allowed by law, more than one vote for an office or ballot measure will be an overvote and no votes for that office or ballot measure will be counted. Note to voters: This ballot contains all measures and races that will appear on the November 4, 2008 General Election Ballot. Only the ballot issues that apply to the precinct where you are registered to vote will appear on your ballot. State Measures Proposed by Initiative Petition Initiative Measure No. 985 Initiative Measure No. 985 concerns transportation. This measure would open highoccupancy vehicle lanes to all traffic during specified hours, require traffic light synchronization, increase roadside assistance funding, and dedicate certain taxes, fines, tolls and other revenues to traffic-flow purposes. Should this measure be enacted into law? Yes No Proposed by Initiative Petition Initiative Measure No Initiative Measure No concerns allowing certain terminally ill competent adults to obtain lethal prescriptions. This measure would permit terminally ill, competent, adult Washington residents, who are medically predicted to have six months or less to live, to request and self-administer lethal medication prescribed by a physician. Should this measure be enacted into law? Yes No Proposed by Initiative Petition Initiative Measure No Initiative Measure No concerns long-term care services for the elderly and persons with disabilities. This measure would require long-term care workers to be certified as home care aides based on an examination, with exceptions; increase training and criminal background check requirements; and establish disciplinary standards and procedures. Should this measure be enacted into law? Yes No Federal - Partisan Office United States President / Vice-President Barack Obama Joe Biden Democratic Party Nominees John McCain Sarah Palin Republican Party Nominees Ralph Nader Matt Gonzalez Independent Candidates Gloria La Riva Eugene Puryear Socialism & Liberation Party Nominees James E. Harris Alyson Kennedy Socialist Workers Party Nominees Bob Barr Wayne A. Root Libertarian Party Nominees Chuck Baldwin Darrell L. Castle Constitution Party Nominees Cynthia McKinney Rosa Clemente Green Party Nominees READ: Each candidate for President and Vice President is the official nominee of a political party. For other partisan offices, each candidate 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. Federal - Partisan Offices U.S. Representative Congressional District 1 2 Year Term Jay Inslee Larry Ishmael (Prefers G.O.P. Party) State - Partisan Offices Governor Christine Gregoire Dino Rossi (Prefers G.O.P. Party) Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen Marcia McCraw Secretary of State Sam Reed Jason Osgood State Treasurer Allan Martin Jim McIntire State Auditor Brian Sonntag J. Richard (Dick) McEntee Attorney General Rob McKenna John Ladenburg U.S. Representative Congressional District 6 2 Year Term Norm Dicks Doug Cloud 4

5 Sample Ballot (continued) State - Partisan Office Commissioner of Public Lands Doug Sutherland Peter J. Goldmark State - Nonpartisan Office Superintendent of Public Instruction Teresa (Terry) Bergeson Randy Dorn State - Partisan Office Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler John R. Adams Legislative 23 - Partisan Offices State Senator Phil Rockefeller Connie Lord State Representative Position 1 2 Year Term Sherry V. Appleton Larry Cooney State Representative Position 2 2 Year Term Christine Rolfes Mark Lowe Legislative 26 - Partisan Offices State Representative Position 1 2 Year Term Jan Angel (Prefers G.O.P. Party) Kim Abel State Representative Position 2 2 Year Term Larry Seaquist Marlyn Jensen Legislative 35 - Partisan Offices State Representative Position 1 2 Year Term Kathy Haigh Marco Brown State Representative Position 2 2 Year Term Fred Finn Randy Neatherlin (Prefers (G.O.P.) Party) County - Partisan Offices County Commissioner District 1 Short and Steve Bauer Sandra LaCelle County Commissioner District 2 Tim Matthes Charlotte Garrido County Auditor 2 Year Unexpired Term Walt Washington John Clark Judicial - Nonpartisan Offices Supreme Court Justice Position 3 6 Year Term Mary Fairhurst Supreme Court Justice Position 4 6 Year Term Charles W. Johnson Supreme Court Justice Position 7 Short and 6 Year Term Debra L. Stephens Court of Appeals Division 2 District 2 Position 1 6 Year Term (Joyce) Robin Hunt Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District Proposition No. 1 Levy Lid Lift for Parks The Board of Commissioners of the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District has adopted Resolution concerning a levy lid lift for parks purposes. If approved, this proposition would restore the 2009 regular levy rate to $0.75/$1,000 assessed value. The 2009 levy amount will be used to calculate subsequent levy limits. Not less than 75% of the increase will be used to acquire, develop and improve property and property interests for parks, open space, and trails, and for a citizens advisory committee. The remainder will be used to facilitate public use of and access to District properties and to operate and maintain those properties. Should this proposition be: Approved Rejected Superior Court Judge, Court 1 Jeanette Dalton Bruce Danielson County - Nonpartisan Office Public Utility District 1 Commissioner District 2 6 Year Term Pete Favazza Lee F. Caldwell

6 Elected Official Duties for Local Offices County Commissioner Of Kitsap County s three Commissioner Districts only District 1 (North) and District 2 (South) are up for election this year. In the Primary, citizens within the district vote for one commissioner for that district. However, in the General Election, all voters in Kitsap County may cast a ballot for candidates running for these offices. The Board of County Commissioners primary duties are to adopt a balanced budget for the entire county operation and oversee all programs not expressly assigned by state law to any other elected official. The Board acts as the full-time legislative arm of the county and oversees the many county departments: Public Works - utilities programs such as roads, waste water, solid waste, storm water, recycling, and engineering, Personnel and human services, Community development - land use, permitting, shorelines and natural resources management, and fire marshal, Emergency management, Cooperative Extension program, and Parks and recreation - which includes the county fair. Commissioners represent citizen interests on many regional and local boards, such as Kitsap Transit, CenCom, the Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority, the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council, and the Kitsap County Health Department. Auditor The County Auditor is the ex-officio deputy of the state auditor for the purpose of accounting and updating financial activities of the county, Supervisor of Elections, Registrar of Voters, Recorder, Motor Vehicle Licensing Agent and Chief Financial Officer for the county. The Elections and Voter Registration Division administers all federal, state, county, municipal and special purpose district elections held in Kitsap County. Up to four spring elections as well as the primary and general are held each year. This division maintains voter registration records for the county s 135,000 registered voters and changes to voter registration records at a rate of about 7,200 per month. Official public records of all real estate documents, deeds and titles transacted in Kitsap County are maintained and indexed in the Auditor s Recording and Marriages Division. This division is also the repository for the official minutes of all Board of County Commissioner meetings and all other official county records, maintaining historical documents dating back to As the county s agent for the Washington State Department of Licensing, the Licensing Division issues vehicle and vessel licenses and tabs and processes title transfer applications. This division is also responsible for the collection of all gambling taxes in Kitsap County. The Auditor s Financial Management Division maintains the central accounting system to which all county departments and agencies report financial transactions. This division is responsible for control and issuance of all disbursements, financial accounting and reporting that includes a Comprehensive Financial Annual Report, grant accounting, payroll and fixed asset inventory. Public Utility District No. 1 Public Utility District No. 1 of Kitsap County was created by the voters of Kitsap County in It is a municipal corporation whose purpose is to provide water utility services, water resources related planning and monitoring services, and wholesale telecommunications service throughout the county. Public Utility District No. 1 owns and operates 56 public water systems in Kitsap County. This district has also established a countywide monitoring network to collect and analyze data on ground water, precipitation, and stream flows. Currently, the District has completed the first phase of its fiber optic telecommunications network to provide wholesale service supporting economic development and customer choice. Details are available on their website at August 19, 2008 Primary Turnout Statewide Turnout: 42.60% Kitsap County Turnout: 49.67% Statewide Poll Site Turnout: 16% Statewide Mail Ballot Turnout: 84%

7 County Partisan Offices County Commissioner District 1 Short and Steve Bauer PO Box 325 Hansville, WA Phone: (360) bauerforkitsapcounty@gmail.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X What background and experience do you bring to this office? I am the incumbent County Commissioner. I am familiar with the issues in County Government and the 10 other Boards and Commissions I sit on. I have 29 years government experience, including being City Manager of Bellevue and Director of Finance and Administration of Portland, Oregon. named a Hansville Outstanding Citizen. My wife and I have three children and 4 grand children. I am an avid gardener and sailor. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? My top priority is to see that the County spends tax dollars wisely. My first budget as County Commissioner was the first in years to be adopted without spending reserves. Financial shortfalls threaten County services. The County must be efficient, creative and accountable to the public. I will rely on my extensive financial experience and the involvement of Kitsap citizens to ensure that vital County services are provided to our citizens. Second, I will protect our quality of life and environment while we accommodate future growth and create clean jobs. Responsible growth requires adequate infrastructure, transportation solutions, parks, affordable housing and protection of our natural environment. I am working to protect and restore Puget Sound and Hood Canal. I have a B.A. from Columbia University and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of California, Berkeley. I served as a Coast Guard Officer in Seattle. I grew up in the Northwest and understand Northwest values and lifestyle. I have volunteered extensively as a mediator, an EMT, a wildlife rehabilitator and President of the Hansville Community Center. I was Sandra LaCelle PO Box 1824 Silverdale, WA Phone: (360) sandraclacelle@gmail.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X What background and experience do you bring to this office? As a private business owner I know the difficulties and necessity of balancing a budget while trying to provide quality services to those paying for them. My business background and role as the co-head of a household taught me how to prioritize spending with necessities and mandates needing to come first. As a lawyer I know the importance of research before taking a position on an issue so that I can make the most educated decisions for the citizens of Kitsap County. While my only government experience is in volunteer services I am also not a lifetime government insider and I bring a fresh, independent perspective to local government. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? First, government should be limited and only operates for, and at the will of the people. Reviewing policies currently in place regarding public meetings and the customer service aspects of county offices to ensure the public is well served and heard is crucial to this process. Second, the first priorities of government are law and justice and roads, and they continue to need the bulk of the taxpayer s funds coming into the county s budget. We must spend within our means, but the cuts need to be shared by all levels of operation within county government. Fiscal hardships should be shared by administrators and front line workers, a view not shared by my opponent as he voted himself a raise at the end of 2007 after cutting union member s medical benefits in an attempt to balance the county s budget. Did You Know? The commissioner candidates were selected by the voters in their specific district in the Primary election (see Kitsap County Commissioner District map on page 15). Both Commissioner Districts will appear on the ballot for all Kitsap voters in the General Election. The candidate statements are printed as submitted. No spelling, grammatical or other corrections have been made. 7

8 County Partisan Offices County Commissioner District 2 Tim Matthes PO Box 1716 Port Orchard, WA Phone: (360) tim@timforkitsap.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X What background and experience do you bring to this office? As a member of the Kitsap County Board of Equalization, I have heard over 1,200 property tax appeals. I am on the Port Orchard Planning Commission and have served on the Silverdale Advisory Council. My first-hand knowledge of Kitsap County s issues comes from practical experience: being directly involved and working with both citizens and the county. Over the years, I have attended hundreds of work-study and county meetings. I have studied and understand the Growth Management Act, the Critical Areas Ordinance, and the Washington Growth Management Hearing Board s decisions. I know how deceptive laws, rules, and regulations increase taxes and discourage new businesses. I am also painfully aware of the disastrous effects ever-increasing taxes have on all of us, especially those with fixed incomes. Yet there is still hope! I am not afraid to boldly tackle and resolve these issues on your behalf. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? First, I will limit deceptive new taxes and regulations. How? By actually listening to voters and opposing all tax increases that are not voter approved. Note, for example, all the new fees added to our car tabs. How has that been working for you? Second, I will use common sense when crafting regulations, and look to maximize efficiency in county offices. How? By repealing unnecessary or repetitive regulations and creating a more citizen-friendly courthouse. We have a lot of work to do to rein in over-taxation and regain citizen control of our government. With your vote, and your support, we will. Charlotte Garrido PO Box 511 Olalla, WA Phone: (360) info@charlottegarrido.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X What background and experience do you bring to this office? As a citizen, a professional, and an elected official, I have never stopped working for Kitsap County. Most recently I brought diverse people together to increase access to fouryear college degrees locally. I have also served as a commissioner for Kitsap County and for the South Kitsap Parks District, honing my abilities to get things done. As county commissioner, I favored a strategic approach to increase government efficiency while reducing costs. I led efforts to locate the WorkSource Center in Bremerton so job seekers can easily find job placement and training services. I returned to UW to learn how communities can grow and still retain their essential character, earning a doctorate in urban planning. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? I believe people have the power to make a difference. Our future depends on a strong economy, a healthy environment and local people working together. As your county commissioner these are my three priorities for a Kitsap County we can proudly call our home. Your opinion counts. I will listen to you and represent your voice in local government. Economic viability and sustainability are not only complementary, but crucial, in today s tumultuous economy. I will support Kitsap businesses, jobs and opportunities for all. Kitsap is one of the most beautiful settings in the world and we must steward our natural resources now and into the future. I will stand up for Puget Sound, protect working farms and forests, and support green building and low impact development. Together, we can make a difference! When will the Election Results be Final? Counties will certify the General Election results on November 25, The Office of the Secretary of State has until December 4, 2008 to certify this Election. 8 The candidate statements are printed as submitted. No spelling, grammatical or other corrections have been made.

9 County Partisan Offices County Auditor 2 Year Unexpired Term Walt Washington PO Box 1612 Port Orchard, WA Phone: (360) auditorwalt@aol.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? As County Auditor, Washington s top priorities are: 1) Ensure the Auditor s Office is responsive and accountable to the public through access to public records, fiscal responsibility, and ethical and efficient elections, and 2) Protect the integrity and security of elections and voter registration through voter outreach and transparency in election administration. Long time residents of Poulsbo, Walt and his wife, Mayre, are dedicated to the community. With a longstanding commitment to service and grassroots participation in Kitsap, Walt considers it an honor and a privilege to serve as Kitsap County Auditor. What background and experience do you bring to this office? A decorated veteran, Walt Washington has a history of dedication to public service. With a degree in Personnel Management, a distinguished career in banking and a proven record as a public official, Washington s experience has prepared him well to serve as County Auditor. Washington has overseen the implementation of over 344 changes in federal and state laws to safeguard voters rights and protect against election fraud. Washington has maintained Kitsap County s excellent reputation for integrity in elections, has encouraged citizen involvement in election oversight and voter registration, has implemented efficiencies to get licenses to the public faster than any other county in the state, and has received a national award for excellence in financial reporting. John Clark Hoved Road NE Poulsbo, WA Phone: (360) johnclarkforauditor@gmail.com Website: Are you an approved candidate of your preferred party? yes no not applicable X What background and experience do you bring to this office? I learned from different cultures being raised in an Air Force family: educated in many states, France, Germany and North Africa. I bring a combination of education, business and government service. I have my degree and 25 years experience in the hospitality profession. I was appointed National Advisory Council Chairman for the US Small Business Administration. Other government appointments were to the Hawaii Water Commission and to the Governor s Election Board of appeals. to the public. I will promote technology and systems developments to improve effectiveness in this office and on an interdepartmental basis. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? To promote greater voter confidence by working diligently to ensure creditable, trustworthy, secure elections. I have worked in elections serving as poll worker, judge, recount chief, and auditor of vote counting systems and electronic readers. I will utilize this experience and advance innovative technology to increase effectiveness in the systems we use for elections. To work as consumer advocate with our tax dollars as the third member of the County s Finance Committee under authority of the Washington State Constitution. The auditor is responsible for processing claims and warrants, payments by the county and checking them against the County budget. This allows the Auditor to act as the checks and balances for the handling of county funds. Kitsap citizens are entitled to know the financial condition of the county. These experiences will be the foundation for providing effective independent leadership in the county budget process. My marketing/public relations training will positively influence communications from this office Remember to Sign Your Ballot Envelope. Your ballot cannot be counted without a valid signature. This prevents another person from casting your ballot. Prior to counting ballots, all signatures are compared with the original signatures on file in the elections office. The candidate statements are printed as submitted. No spelling, grammatical or other corrections have been made. 9

10 County Nonpartisan Office Public Utility District 1 Commissioner District 2 6 Year Term Pete Favazza (Nonpartisan) PO Box 899 Port Orchard, WA electfavazza@hotmail.com countywide water resource management and our ability to communicate with the world by building a fiber optic broadband data backbone across Kitsap. Each year we reach more rural areas, benefiting government, businesses, and households alike. I am actively dedicated to the expansion of assets like this. Next, I will actively face all new challenges within our PUD to keep Kitsap growing in the 21 st century. As Commissioner, it will be more than a duty, it is an honor to serve our community. What background and experience do you bring to this office? Kitsap County is my home. With strong family ties here, I will devote myself to the needs of our growing county. I am a local business owner, former defense contractor, and a proud veteran of the US Army. Offering 16 years of Telecommunications and Resource Management experience, I know how to achieve success while under pressure and with limited resources. I directly oversaw mission critical communications to thousands of US service members throughout Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. I am proud to have this opportunity to apply my expertise and diligence closer to home and benefit our community. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? First, Improving and diversifying our community resources makes Kitsap stronger and holds a deep meaning to us all. We have improved Lee F. Caldwell (Nonpartisan) 922 Sidney Ave Port Orchard, WA Phone: (360) What background and experience do you bring to this office? I have been a county-wide PUD commissioner for four terms. Serving first on the Port Orchard City council, where I chaired the Water and Sewer Committee, I developed an understanding and appreciation for the service of local governments and the task of public service. My private sector experience came from owning an operating Caldwell Trading Post and Transfer as well as a rental business. If elected, what will be your top two priorities, and how will you accomplish them? I m excited about the future for the PUD and the people of Kitsap County. It is important that this county grow in the right way. The PUD will continue to work to preserve and protect out valuable water resources. I also believe the high speed broadband fiber backbone we provide will foster the kind of economic development that respects our attitudes about our environment and natural resources. Kitsap County is a great place to live, and I want to keep it that way. I am experienced and motivated to serve our PUD. I have seen the PUD grow from about a thousand water customers to well over thirteen thousand, and I was instrumental in the PUD s decision to get into the Wholesale High Speed Fiber Optic business which is now provided to most of the county. In addition to serving on the PUD commission and the city council, I have been a member of Kitsap Humane Society, District Governor of Active Club International, Assistant Fire Chief, and presently, active in state and national utility associations. Remember to return your ballot on time. In order for your ballot to be counted, it must be returned or postmarked no later than the day of the election Tuesday, November 4 th. 10 The candidate statements are printed as submitted. No spelling, grammatical or other corrections have been made.

11 Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District Proposition No. 1 Levy Lid Lift for Parks Official Ballot Title The Board of Commissioners of the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District has adopted Resolution concerning a levy lid lift for parks purposes. If approved, this proposition would restore the 2009 regular levy rate to $0.75/$1,000 assessed value. The 2009 levy amount will be used to calculate subsequent levy limits. Not less that 75% of the increase will be used to acquire, develop and improve property and property interests for parks, open space, and trails, and for a citizens advisory committee. The remainder will be used to facilitate public use of and access to District properties and to operate and maintain those properties. Should this proposition be: Approved Rejected Explanatory Statement (Prepared by the Attorney for the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District, as prescribed by law.) The Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District anticipates that the City of Bainbridge Island will transfer numerous park and open space properties to the Park District pursuant to the recommendations of the Public Lands Stewardship Committee Report. Proposition 1 will provide additional funding to the District to support this in addition to its normal services to the community by authorizing the Board to restore the regular property tax levy rate to $0.75/$1,000 assessed value in That levy amount will be used to calculate levy limits under the 101% levy lid (chapter RCW) in future years. This revenue may only be used as follows: (1) not less than 75% of the additional annual revenues will fund acquisition, development or improvement of property or property interests for parks purposes, including but not limited to parks, open space, and trails, and will support the work of a citizens committee that will be established to make recommendations on property acquisitions; and (2) the remaining additional revenues will be used for general District purposes to facilitate public use of and access to the District s properties, and to operate and maintain its properties. The District estimates that in 2009, this approximately $0.167 increase (over the 2008 levy rate) would cost the owner of a $450,000 home approximately $75. Statement For the Measure The levy lift will provide necessary funds for the development and maintenance of existing parkland and athletic fields. It will also allow the community to add key parcels to the parks before they are sold to developers. The continually increasing costs of island real estate demands prudent action NOW. The window of opportunity is closing for the Park District to secure adequate fields, open space and hiking trails for future generations. A vote for the lid lift is a vote to preserve the unique nature of the island before it is lost to development. At least 75% of levy proceeds must be used to purchase parkland and easements. A citizen s oversight committee will guide those selections. The program wisely commits approximately 25% of levy funds to maintenance and development of existing parks and holdings. Our athletic fields will be safer for our children. Our park holdings will be more accessible and useable. The proposed program is prudent and visionary. The Park District has a long record of efficiency in its stewardship of existing resources. The levy lift is modest, averaging only $45 annual commitment for the typical household. Let s move forward by voting YES for the levy lid lift. Rebuttal to the Statement Against The $75 average levy increase (not $45) is a wise and timely investment. The island s remaining open space is largely in private hands, and it will end up developed. If an artificial field is ever built, private organizations like soccer will fund it. The citizen oversight committee will ensure wise stewardship of public funds. The levy lift will allow the citizen oversight committee to purchase a few key parcels when they come up for sale. Statement and rebuttal prepared by: Dwight Sutton, Chairperson, and Jay Kinney, member, committee for the measure. Further questions may be addressed by calling (206) or (206) Statement Against the Measure This is the wrong proposal at the wrong time for Bainbridge Island parks: 1) Bainbridge has ample open space. At 81 acres per thousand residents, we have double the national average and about five times the median for all cities in the United States. 2) The Parks Board won t specify how they want to spend your money. Right now, they re spending tax dollars so they can pave four acres at Battle Point with artificial turf ground up tires and plastic grass--that may pollute Puget Sound and wear out in just seven years. 3) Inflated housing costs mean higher property taxes, already, for residents whose incomes have not kept pace. A recession is the wrong time for a tax increase. What good are parks if you can t afford the taxes to live here? 4) Parks dollars should be spent on programs for people, not buying and driving up the price of real estate. Prioritize, and tell us what properties need to be acquired, and why, before raising taxes. Parks are very important. But we need to send the Parks Board a strong message: NO tax dollars for artificial turf. NO discretionary funds. NO money for unneeded real estate. Vote NO. Rebuttal to the Statement For The Parks District says Prop 1 costs an additional $75 per household. Proponents say $45. What s the real cost? Does anybody know? Prop 1 isn t about vision. Prop 1 insufficiently funds maintenance of parkland already owned, buys unneeded property, paves parks with artificial turf, and ignores real needs, like the Senior Center. For more open space, donate voluntarily to the Land Trust. For fair Parks property taxes, for better parks, Vote No to Prop 1. Statement and rebuttal prepared by Thomas W. Hemphill, Chairperson and Chris Van Dyk, member, No to Parks Prop. 1 Committee. Further questions may be addressed by ing twhemphill@bainbridge.net or call (206) Persuasive statements are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for factual or grammatical accuracy by any official government agency. 11

12 Political Party Information Major Political Parties A Major Political Party is a political party where any statewide office received at least 5% of the total vote cast at the last preceding state General Election in an even numbered year. Washington State has two major political parties Democratic and Republican. Democratic Party Washington State Democratic Party 615 Second Ave, Suite 580, PO Box 4027, Seattle, WA Phone: (206) Fax: (206) Website: info@wa-democrats.org Kitsap County Democratic Central Committee PO Box 27, Silverdale, WA Phone: (360) Website: Republican Party Washington State Republican Party 2840 Northup Way, Suite 140, Bellevue, WA Phone: (425) Fax: (425) Website: comments@wsrp.org Kitsap County Republican Party PO Box 348, Port Orchard, WA Phone: (360) Website: admin@kitsaprepublicans.org Political Contribution Limits State law sets contribution limits on donations to legislative, state executive, and judicial office candidates as well as bona fide political party and caucus political committees. Anyone who donates more than a total of $25.00 in monetary and in-kind contributions must be identified by name and full address. Occupation, employer name, city, and state are required for contributions of more than $ Minor Political Parties A Minor Political Party is any political party where no statewide office received more than 5% of the total vote cast at the last preceding state General Election in an even numbered year. Socialism & Liberation Party 3180 Mission Street #29, San Francisco, CA Website: partyofcommons@yahoo.com Libertarian Party of Washington State Lake City Way NE Ste C103, Seattle WA Phone: (206) Website: officemanager@lpwa.org Constitution Party of Washington SE 240 th St. PMB 135, Kent, WA Phone: (253) Website: contactus@constitutionpartyofwa.com Green Party of Washington State PO Box 1305, South Bend, WA Phone: (360) Website: info@wagreens.us Contact Information Washington State Public Disclosure Commission Phone: (360) or toll free at (877) pdc@pdc.wa.gov or website: How is the United States President Elected? Presidential Primaries and Caucuses The Democratic and Republican parties hold a Presidential Primary or caucus in every state (Washington State s was held in February) for voters to elect delegates to represent the candidate of their choice at their party s regional, statewide, and national conventions. National Party Conventions At the national party conventions in August and September, delegates elected by their states party members vote for the candidate they represent. The candidate with the most delegate votes is announced as the party s official presidential nominee. The nominee then announces his or her vice-presidential running mate. The Democratic National Convention was held August in Denver, Colorado. The Republican National Convention was held September 1-4 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. General Election The presidential nominees of the major parties, minor parties, and independent candidates appear on the November 4 th General Election ballot. Electoral College Votes The Electoral College is a body of 538 popularly elected representatives selected by political parties who formally select the President and Vice-President of the United States. The number of electors is equal to the number of Senators and Representatives in the United States Congress in each state. Whichever presidential ticket receives the most popular votes in a state wins the Electors of that state. On December 15, 2008 each state s electors meet in their respective state capitols and cast their electoral votes. Congress Counts the Electoral Votes & the Presidential Inauguration is Held On January 6, 2009, Congress meets in joint session and counts the electoral votes. In order to be elected, a candidate must receive a majority (at least 270) of the electoral votes. The winner is declared. On January 20, 2009, Inauguration Day, the elected President and Vice-President are sworn into office in front of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. 12

13 Voter Registration Information Who is Eligible to Vote? To register to vote, one must be: A United States citizen 18 years of age on or before the next election A legal resident of the State of Washington Not currently denied civil rights as a result of a felony conviction or declared mentally incompetent How Can I Register? Online: A valid Washington State Driver s License or ID is needed. Go to and click the Online Voter Registration icon. Paper form: Complete a Mail-In Voter Registration Form and mail it to the preprinted return address on the form, or complete the form in person at the Auditor s Office - Elections Division. Forms are available at: Kitsap County - Elections Division 619 Division Street, Port Orchard (The County Administration Building) City and Town Halls All Regional Libraries, Public Schools, and Fire Districts Most State and Federal Agencies (Department of Licensing, Social Security, Congressional, etc.) The Mail-In Voter Registration Form can be downloaded from the Secretary of State s website To Cancel Your Voter Registration In addition to notification from state agencies, you can assist us in obtaining the required documentation to cancel registered voters who have moved out of Kitsap County or who have recently passed away. Provide a statement signed by the voter, or in the case of a deceased voter, a family member may provide written and signed authorization to request cancellation. When Can I Register in Kitsap County? Individuals may register to vote at any time. Registration applications must be postmarked or received at least 30 days prior to an election in order to vote in that election. First time voters or persons moving into the state have until 15 days prior to an election to register by appearing in person at the Auditor s Office - Elections Division and completing a voter registration application. When You Move or Change Your Address If your mailing or residence address has changed within Kitsap County, your voter record must be updated. You can easily update your record by one of the following methods: Print, complete and mail the form available online at Go to and click the MyVote icon. For security purposes, you will need your driver s license or state ID card number to change your address online. Call our office and provide your new information: (360) , from Bainbridge Island (206) , from Olalla (253) A new voter registration card will be mailed after your address change is processed. Name Change If you have legally changed your name for any reason, you must complete a new voter registration form in your new name with your new signature and return it to the address provided on the form or to the Auditor s Office. The new registration form requires that you provide your prior name and prior signature in the middle section of the form. Military or Overseas Voters If you are a military or overseas voter, you may be eligible for an Early Ballot to ensure your ballot is received on time. An Early Ballot is available for those who believe they would not receive a regular ballot in time to vote. By written request, an Early Ballot is available 90 days prior to an election. The Early Ballot will list only the offices, candidates, and measures known at the time of the request. A Fax or Ballot is an option if you are out of the area and would not receive a mailed ballot in time to vote and return it by Election Day. Specific needs may be addressed by contacting the Auditor s Office at (360) or by at auditor@co.kitsap.wa.us. Other Resources Federal Voting Assistance Program Washington Secretary of State 13

14 Kitsap County Congressional & Legislative Districts Each Congressional District includes approximately 655,000 residents (based on the 2000 census). The 1 st District includes portions of Kitsap, Snohomish, and King Counties. The 6 th District includes portions of Kitsap and Pierce counties, and all of Jefferson, Clallam, Mason, and Grays Harbor counties. A detailed map is available on the web at Each Legislative District includes approximately 120,000 residents (based on the 2000 census). The 23 rd District lies wholly within Kitsap County. The 26 th District includes portions of Kitsap and Pierce counties. The 35 th District includes portions of Kitsap, Thurston, and Grays Harbor Counties and all Mason County. A detailed map is available on the web at 14

15 Kitsap County Commissioner Districts Each Commissioner District includes approximately equal portions of the county population (based on the 2000 census). A detailed map is available on the web at 15

16 November 4, 2008 General Election Official 2008 Local Voters Pamphlet The right of voting...is the primary right by which other rights are protected. -Thomas Paine WALTER E. WASHINGTON Kitsap County Auditor Elections Division MS Division Street Port Orchard, WA NON PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID KITSAP COUNTY November 4, 2008 General Election Official 2008 Local Voters Pamphlet (360) RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS The right of voting...is the primary right by which other rights are protected. -Thomas Paine