About the Commission
At the November general election, Whatcom County voters will elect fifteen individuals, an equal number from each of the five County Council districts, to serve on the Charter Review Commission in 2025. Members are elected to serve one-year terms, and the member who receives the greatest number of votes will convene the commission.
Whatcom County voters approved the adoption of a home rule charter in 1978, changing the county's form of governance from the standard commission form to a council-elected executive form. The Charter outlines the county's powers, organizational structure, budget process, and election, initiative, and referendum procedures. It also establishes the process for the Charter's review.
At least every 10 years following the Charter's adoption, a commission is elected to assess the Charter's adequacy and suitability to the needs of the county and evaluate possible changes. The commission may propose amendments to the Charter, make recommendations to the County Council, and publish its findings. Proposed amendments that receive an affirmative vote by a supermajority of the commission are filed with the County Council for submission to voters at the next November general election.
Regular commission meetings will be open to the public and will include scheduled time for public comment. Upcoming meeting dates and times will be posted as soon as available.
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