We celebrate the diversity of King County and work to ensure all programs and services are welcoming and inclusive for all. The county serves everyone, including residents who do not have citizenship. Our county charter currently refers to people mostly as “public” or “residents”; in just a few places does it use “citizen” where it isn’t necessary to make that distinction. 

Every resident deserves the ability to be actively involved in helping shape the functioning of county practices and services. County employees do not inquire about citizenship status unless required by state or federal law. Our charter should not imply citizenship requirements where none exist. This amendment would selectively replace the word “citizen” with “resident” or “public” except in one place where it refers to qualifications to hold public office.

The Office of the Ombuds (as the Office of Citizen Complaints is now known) is required by county code to accept complaints from any source. This amendment aligns the charter with this long-standing practice to ensure all residents can file complaints. It also aligns with the long-standing practice of not inquiring about citizenship of members of the Charter Review Commission.

We urge you to vote Yes to approve this amendment.

Toby Nixon, Kathy Sakahara, Rich Stolz

No statement submitted.

Statements in favor of and in opposition to a ballot measure are submitted by committees appointed by the jurisdiction. No persons came forward to serve on the committee and to write a statement in opposition. If you would like to be involved with a committee in the future please contact the jurisdiction.

Download full text of the resolution

Simple Majority (King County Charter, Section 800)

For questions about this measure, contact: Patrick Hamacher, Director of Council Initiatives, 
(206) 477-0880, patrick.hamacher@kingcounty.gov