What Is The Whatcom County Charter (And Why Should You Care?)

Whatcom County is unique. You know that from living here. But part of the reason is our County Charter. 

We are one of only 7 “Home Rule Counties” out of 39 counties in Washington State.  A home rule county refers to a local government entity within a U.S. state that has the authority to set up its own system of self-governance without needing a charter from the state. In home rule counties, the authority to act in local affairs is transferred from state law to a local charter. That charter is then adopted and amended by voters through referendum. 

Whatcom County’s Charter was presented to the voters in 1978. To keep the charter current with changes in the county and world the writers mandated a review by a commission elected by the voters of the county once every ten years. One such review is coming up in 2025.

There have been several changes to the County charter through this review process. Until recently, for example, our County had 3 districts and the County Council was made up of representatives from each district plus 2 “at large” members. These representatives weren’t just elected by residents of their own districts – they were voted on by the whole county. 

One of our more recent Charter Review Commissions recognized that the county needed to have more than 3 districts, and that Councilors from those districts should be elected by the District’s residents. The Commission recommended a change to our current number of districts and Councilor system, the referendum appeared on the ballot, and Whatcom County residents voted for the change.

It’s crucial that you, the residents of Whatcom County’s 4th District, have balanced representation in next year’s Charter review process. I hope you’ll elect me to bring your views and your voice to this important Commission.