Vote yes on Proposition 4.

By lowering the number of petition signatures needed from 15% to 8%, eliminating the requirement to identify funding sources, and regulating paid signature gathering, our right of initiative will fulfill its promise as a real tool for voters.

At 15% of the voters in the last gubernatorial election, our county has the highest signature requirement of all WA charter counties. We also have extremely high voter participation, further increasing the number of signatures required to place an initiative on the ballot. This required number should be reduced.

The financial requirement presents a huge stumbling block for initiative proposers with good ideas, but who don’t have access to the financial information needed to identify possible sources of funding. If an initiative passes that has a fiscal impact, the County will then make the appropriate decision for funding. The voters in our County are very aware; they understand that most things have a cost. Requiring a ballot measure to contain a funding component undermines the primary issue that petitioners desire to have on the ballot.

Additionally, Proposition 4 seeks to encourage grassroots direct democracy by regulating paid signature gathering, with a requirement for paid signature gatherers to identify that they are paid. This proposal is not a ban. Signature gathering is hard work and it is reasonable to compensate people for their effort. However, voters should have the right to understand the motivations of the petition signature gatherer.

I urge you to vote for Proposition 4.

Patty Garcia

Friday Harbor