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    Carla Rogers

    wealth tax

    Wealth Tax

     1024 1024 34th Democrats

    Adopted by the membership on March 8, 2023 at the monthly membership meeting.

    Resolution in Support of a Washington Tax on Extreme Wealth

    (SB 5486 and HB 1473)

    WHEREAS the 34th District Democrats platform supports wealth taxes and the Washington State Democrats have called for “fair and just tax system for all; by creating a progressive wealth tax;” and

    WHEREAS Washington State has the most regressive tax system in the country, with the bottom 20% of Washington’s lowest-income residents paying nearly 18% of their income for state and local taxes, while those in the highest 20% income bracket pay less than 7% of their income for state and local taxes; and

    WHEREAS Washington State is facing a crisis in funding for public schools, housing and homelessness, developmental disability services, climate change resilience, public transit and transportation, physical and mental health care, and more; and

    WHEREAS Senate Bill 5486 and House Bill 1473, which are titled “Investing in Washington families and creating a more fair tax system by enacting a narrowly tailored property tax on extreme wealth derived from the ownership of stocks, bonds, and other financial intangible property,” propose a 1% tax on financial property in excess of $250 million, with revenue collected funding public education, housing, disabilities, and taxpayer justice; and

    WHEREAS SB 5486 and HB 1473 would generate more than $6 BILLION per biennium for Washington (according to SB 5486’s fiscal note), and affect about 700 Washingtonians fortunate enough to have more than $250 million in wealth; and

    WHEREAS Senator Nguyen and Representative Alvarado are co-sponsors of SB 5486 and HB 1473, respectively,

    NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the 34th LD Democrats support the creation of a wealth tax as defined in SB 5486 and HB 1473 to fund needed services for Washingtonians, such as public education, housing, disabilities, and taxpayer justice; and

    BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the 34th LD Democrats call on all Democrats in the Washington State Legislature to wholeheartedly support passing these bills. 

    Submitted to the 34th LD Democrats February 2023 by Bunny Hatcher.

    2023-01-18 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Minutes of the 34th District Democrats Board Meeting

    January 18, 2023, held virtually on Zoom.

    7:06 pm – Call to Order by Chair Graham Murphy

    Attendees:

    xGraham MurphyxBunny HatcherxCarla Rogers
    xRachel GlassPreston AndersonxAnn Martin
    xJordan CrawleyLeah GriffinxLauri Hennessy
    Chris PorterxJulie WhitakerxDorothy Gesick
    xRoxanne ThayerxSteve ButtsxGina Topp
    xTed Barker

     

    Welcome, Agenda Review, and Meeting Expectations

    Committee Chair Appointments for Membership Approval

    • Jordan Crawley, Bylaws and Rules
    • Carla Rogers, Communications
    • Lauri Hennessey, Fundraising and Events
    • Jordan Crawley, Platform and Legislative Action
    • Steve Butts, Outreach
    • Dorothy Gesick, PCO Committee
    • Rachel Glass, Programs
    • Ann Martin, Resolution and Endorsements
    • Gina Topp, Parliamentarian
    • Open Roles to be filled:
    • Community Partnerships Committee Chair
    • Equity and Social Justice Committee Chair
    • Membership and Hospitality Committee Chair
    • Elections and Caucus Committee Chair
    • Young Democrats Liaison

    Introductions

    Board members introduced themselves. Each member was asked to lay out their hopes for the district organization and goals for their roles and committees.

    Communications Requirements, Tools, and Norms.

    Communications Committee Chair Carla Rogers laid out procedures for board communication and her requirements from board members.

    • Email setup for those in new positions using the @34dems.org addresses. A setup instructional document has been prepared. Out-going email for 34th LD business should be sent out from those accounts.
    • Head shots are needed for the website.
    • Use of 34th’s Slack channel for communication was encouraged.
    • Documents created on, or uploaded to, Google Drive are favored for files to be shared.

    Budget Development

    Graham set a deadline of February 8th to submit committee expense requirements. This will allow for discussion at the February board meeting before presenting a budget for membership approval at the March meeting.

    Chair’s Objectives Going Forward

    • Graham seeks an alignment of goals and methods between committee chairs with a common strategy for hitting main targets of:
      • Fundraising for elections.
      • Membership retention.
      • PCO Recruitment.

    Items for review

    • Standing rules for virtual meetings.
    • Committee structures.
    • Organizational bylaws, rules, and code of conduct.
    • In-person vs virtual meeting cadence is to be decided.
    • Committee chairs are to submit monthly reports of their activities the second Saturday of the month, with the goal of publishing them to the membership.
    • Submit any potential business for general meetings to the Chair by the second Saturday of the month for board discussion. 
    • Newsletter articles are to be submitted by the 4th Wednesday of the month.

    The meeting was adjourned by Chair at 8:30 pm.

     

    Monthly Meeting

    23-01-11 Membership Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats Biennial Reorganization Meeting Minutes

    January 11, 2023 – Virtual meeting held via closed Zoom

    7:03 Call to Order by Temporary Chair Carrie Barnes, Chair of the King County Democrats

    Appointment of Temporary Officers

    The Temporary Chair appointed the following:

    1. Parliamentarian – Gina Topp
    2. Sergeant at Arms – Ted Barker
    3. Secretary – Steve Butts

    Opening Ceremonies

    1. Land Acknowledgement – Rachel Glass
    2. Explanation of the Voting Process – Carla Rogers

    Agenda and Meeting Rules

    1. Adoption of the Agenda moved by Chris Porter; seconded by Ann Martin. Agenda approved.
    • Amendment to the Agenda to add KCDCC Alternates to list of nominations was made and moved by Carla Rogers; seconded by Bunny Hatcher. Amendment approved.
    1. Adoption of the Meeting Rules moved by Ann Martin, seconded by Chris Porter, and approved. 

    VIP Speakers

    1. King County Executive Dow Constantine
    2. King County Councilmember Joe McDermott
    3. Retired Representative Eileen Cody
    4. King County Democrats Chair Carrie Barnes

    Officer Nominations and Voting

    Chair

    1. David Toledo was nominated by Jordan Crawley.
    2. Graham Murphy was nominated by Carla Rogers. 
    • David spoke for himself.  Jordan used his speech to defer to David. 
      • Chris Porter spoke against David.
    • Graham spoke for himself. Carla spoke in favor of Graham.

    Graham Murphy was elected Chair via Zoom poll ballot by 100% of the PCOs present.

    Graham assumed the role of Permanent Chair for the rest of the meeting.

    1st Vice Chair

    Rachel Glass was nominated by David Toledo; Carla Rogers seconded. Rachel spoke for herself. David spoke in favor of Rachel. Rachel was elected via voice vote of attending PCOs.

    2nd Vice Chair

    Jordan Crawley was nominated by David Toledo; Seconded by Bunny Hatcher. Jordan spoke on his own behalf. He was elected via PCO voice vote.

    State Committee Member (2 Positions)

    1. Chris Porter (Male Identifying) was nominated by Preston Anderson; Tamsen Spengler seconded.
    2. Roxanne Thayer (Female Identifying) was nominated by Bunny Hatcher; Julie Whitaker seconded.

    Each candidate spoke on their own behalf and were both elected by PCO voice vote.

    KCDCC Committee Member (2 Positions)

    1. Ted Barker (Male Identifying) was nominated by Joe McDermott; Tamsen Spengler seconded.
    2. Bunny Hatcher (Female Identifying) was nominated by Julie Whitaker; Ann Martin seconded.

    Each candidate spoke on their own behalf. Both were elected by PCO voice vote.

    KCDCC Committee Member Alternate (2 Positions)

    1. Leah Griffin (Female Identifying) was nominated by Bunny Hatcher; Rachel Glass seconded.
    2. Preston Anderson (Male Identifying) was nominated by Julie Whitaker; Carla Rogers seconded.

    Each candidate spoke on their own behalf. Both were elected by PCO voice vote.

    Treasurer

    Julie Whitaker was nominated by Nick Bonazza; Rachel Glass seconded. Julie spoke on her own behalf and was elected by voice vote of all members present.

    Secretary

    Steve Butts was nominated by Nick Bonazza; Carla Rogers seconded. Steve spoke on behalf of himself and was elected by voice vote of all members present.

    Minutes from the October meeting adopted by voice vote.

    Budget and Membership Report

      • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the month’s end financials for October, November, and December. 
    • As of the meeting there were 52 contributing members.

    Initiative Spotlight – City of Seattle I-135 (House our Neighbors)

    Camille Gix from the Yes on I-135 campaign gave a presentation on this initiative that concerns developing and maintaining affordable social housing in Seattle. It would put in place a Public Developer to create, own, and maintain social housing for those making 60-120% of the Area Median Income.

    This social housing would be:

    • Publicly owned
    • Permanently affordable
    • Be home to cross-class communities
    • Feature resident leadership

    The initiative was slated for the February 14, 2023 election, ballots sent January 25.

    Also speaking for the initiative was Marc Auerbach who put out a call for volunteers.

    A motion to endorse I-135 was made by Julie Whitaker; Seconded by Roxanne Thayer. Roxanne spoke in favor of the initiative. It was passed by 87% of the membership vote, cast via a Zoom poll ballot.

    https://www.houseourneighbors.org/

    King Conservation District Board Special Election

    Chris Porter spoke to his reelection campaign to the Board of Supervisors of the King Conservation District. He displayed a postcard reminder we were to expect to receive for this unique and standalone election…which was to be separate from the City Special Election on the same date.

    Eligible voters could vote online from January 24, at 8:00 AM through February 14, 2023, at 8:00 PM, or they could request ballots to be mailed, postmarked no later than February 14.

    https://kingcd.org/about/board-of-supervisors/elections-and-appointments/

    Bunny Hatcher moved to endorse Chris. Julie Whitaker seconded. Chris is endorsed via a voice vote of all members.

    Graham Murphy adjourned the meeting at 9:05 pm.

     

    Monthly Meeting

    22-10-12 Membership Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Democrats Membership Meeting Minutes

    October 12, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    6:30 Presentation on Public Safety by Sean Blackwell, LEAD. Jimmy Hung, Lisa Herbold, Saroeum Phoung, and Marvin Marshall, recording available: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCON7J56wtBveqzF0xVywhrg  

    7:36 Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Opening Ceremonies

    • What are you doing to get out the Democratic vote? 
    • Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass 
    • VIP Acknowledgements
      • Chris Porter King County Conservation District – encourages everyone to use native plants in their properties and pick up after their dogs and vote. 
      • Representative Eileen Cody 
    • Speak Up Survey to gauge interest in attending a 34th Board Q&A https://bit.ly/BoardOpenHouseRSVP2022  

    Approval of Tonight’s Agenda and Last Month’s Minutes 

    • Chris Porter moved and Sara Koch seconded to approve the agenda. Passed by unanimous consent.
    • Julie Whitaker moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded to approve the minutes. Passed by unanimous consent.

    Budget and Membership Reports

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the budget since last meeting.    
      • Budget decreased this month largely due to printing sample ballots and meeting expenses. 
      • Current membership is 279, including 99 PCOs. 
      • PCO’s filed in May, look for notices re: voting at the King County Reorganization in December meeting. 

    Honoring our Veterans, presented by Preston Anderson 

    • Gold Star Memorial Dedication in Lynwood, November 2nd, need to register to attend, link will be coming soon https://www.lynnwoodwa.gov/Home. 
    • UW Veterans Appreciate Week in November 
    • Look for more information coming via email

    Chair’s Announcements

    • Next board meeting will be held on Zoom, October 19, 7-8:00 
    • October Pop Up Social – Friday Oct 21, 5:30 – 8pm Beer Star (White Center)    
    • Shall we have a social in December? 
    • Submit 34th Awards Nominations https://bit.ly/2022-Awards-Nom 
    • Executive Board Election “Reorganization” January 11
    • Executive Board Open House November 16 https://bit.ly/BoardOpenHouseRSVP2022 

    What’s Ahead in 2022 

    • November 9th,  6-9 pm Meeting – Year End Celebration
      • Pre-session Q&A with Legislators
      • 2022 34th Awards
      • Tribute to Rep Eileen Cody
    • No December Meeting
      • Service Project 
      • December is the end of the term, and 34th re-orgs in January 

    PCO Appointments & Upcoming Plans

    • Nick swore in Gayle Sommers and confirmed they are a Democrat, SEA 34 – 3767
    • Chris Porter moved and Sara Koch seconded to appoint this new PCO. 
    • Unanimous voice vote welcomed this new PCO to their role!
    • New Walk lists and Door Hangers have been distributed, and Nick has extra if anyone needs them. 
    • Attend December King County Dems Reorganization 

    GOTV Plans 

    Campaign Contributions

    • Executive Board Recommends the following additional donation for Highline Schools
    • Chris Porter moved to make a $750 to Highline Schools Levy, Dorothy Gesick seconded. 
    • Chris Porter spoke for the motion. 
    • Motion passed unanimously. 

    Your Executive Board – Committees 

    • “Who Does That?” Game for each board member to share a little about their tasks.   

    Good of the Order 

    • Chris Porter: Remember to fill out your nomination forms for the awards!  Get your Covid vaccinations! 
    • Dean Shuey: millions of US citizens live overseas and need to vote, including military and students. They can use https://www.votefromabroad.org/.  Help us get out the vote! 
    • Roxanne Thayer – Slack posts contain information on Medicare and Medicaid and instances of misuse. 

    Adjourned at 9:08 pm by Carla Rogers, Chair 

     

    Monthly Meeting

    2022-09-14 Membership Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    September 14, 2022 –  Membership Meeting  Minutes

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

    6:30pm Pre-meeting Program

    • A 9-11 remembrance was given by Annabel Quintero, a survivor of the attack on the World Trade Center in 2001. She is the author of Step Step Jump, a book inspired by that event.
    • A presentation about the advocacy group, the Northwest Progressive Institute was given by its founder Andrew Villeneuve.

    7:30pm Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Chair Rogers thanked those who helped with organizing the meeting, our first in-person since February 2020.
    • Land & First Peoples Acknowledgment – 1st Vice Chair Rachel Glass
    • VIP Acknowledgements:
    • Leslie Harris – discussed the tentative agreement between the Seattle School District and the Seattle Education Association.
    • Joe Nguyen – chose not to speak.
    • Chris Porter – will be seeking reelection to the board of the King Conservation District.
    • Speak Up Survey question for September – Is there interest in attending an informational meeting about 34th Executive Board Roles for 2023/2024?

    Approval of Tonight’s Agenda and Last Month’s Minutes

    • Ann Martin moved, and Bunny Hatcher seconded to approve the agenda. Passed by unanimous consent.
    • Ann Martin moved, and Chris Porter seconded to approve minutes from August meeting. Passed by unanimous consent.

    Budget and Membership Report

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the financials since the last meeting.
    • Outsized spending for August includes printing of PCO doorbelling material
    • Current membership stands at 273, including 94 PCOs.

    Chair’s Announcements

    • Pop Up Social – September 24 at Ounces
    • The October membership meeting will be on Zoom, Lisa Herbold will be speaking.
    • The Executive Board meeting will be on Wednesday September 21 on Zoom.
    • Adopt-A-Street work party will be on Saturday September 17th.
    • The Awards Committee needs additional Volunteers.
    • The Outreach Committee will have a booth at the B-Town Fiesta on Saturday September 24
    • The November meeting will be in person and will feature “Cheers” to retiring Eileen Cody.
    • Reorganization will take place on January 11, 2023, when officers will be elected, and committee chairs are seated.

    PCO Appointment and Campaign Activities

    • Preston Anderson introduces Graham Murphy who volunteers to become PCO for SEA 34-1410.
    • Chris Porter moves and Michael Parker seconds to appoint Graham as PCO.
    • Graham is appointed by a voice vote to his new role.
    • Two Coordinated Campaign Organizers speak about campaign volunteer opportunities. Ryan O’Connor will serve as the Organizer for the 34th LD.
    • Leesa Manion’s campaign manager CS Wright speaks on her behalf.
    • Candidates for 34th LD Representative Emily Alvarado and Leah Griffin speak in turn.
    • Doorhangers were distributed to PCOs present at the meeting.
    • Chair Rogers described the September 10th canvassing trip to Covington to doorbell for Kim Schrier.
    • The next trip will be on Sunday, September 25. More will be planned for October.
    • A short video of the story behind Barack Obama’s campaign cry “Fired up, Ready to go!” is shown.

    Highline Schools Levy

    • Lois Schipper describes the levy. Tyee and Evergreen High Schools, and Pacific Middle School will be rebuilt.
    • Joe Nguyen moves and Chris Porter seconds to endorse the levy.
    • Joe speaks in favor.
    • Membership votes to endorse unanimously by show of credentials.

    Seattle Proposition 1A and 1B – Approval and Ranked Choice Voting

    Troy Logan from the group Seattle Approves describes Prop 1A – Approval Voting.

    Two representatives from the group FairVote Washington describes Prob 1B – Ranked Choice Voting.

    The ballot measure voting procedure is explained. It will be in two parts: Question 1 is a YES or NO vote to change the Seattle voting process. Question 2 is a choice between the two voting methods. Voters may choose 1A or 1B, regardless of their vote for Question 1. If YES prevails in the Question 1 vote, the majority winner between Prop 1A or Prop 1B prevails.

    • Ann Martin moves and Richard Bartlett seconds to endorse Prop 1B.
    • Ann speaks for. Ted Barker Speaks against.
    • Members vote on Prop 1B:
    • First Ballot: YES – 11, NO – 7, NO POSITION – 5. NO POSITION is dropped.
    • Second Ballot: YES – 16, NO – 6
    • Prop 1B is endorsed.
    • Martha Koester moves and Daniel Pinsker seconds to endorse Prop 1A.
    • Martha speaks for. Chris Lampkin speaks against.
    • Members vote on Prop 1A:
    • YES – 2, NO – 15, NO POSITION – 7.
    • No Endorsement for Prop 1A.

    General Election Contributions

    • The Executive Board proposes these donation amounts:

    $2,000 – Leesa Manion, King County Prosecutor.

    $1,000 – Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State.

    $1,000 – King County Proposition 1 – Conservation Futures Levy.

    $1,000 – Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, he will share in tight legislative district races.

    • Chris Porter moves, and Preston Anderson seconds to donate to Sen. Joe Nguyen, who also will put his contribution to work in more competitive LDs. To stay within the $5000 total Chris proposes this allocation:

    $2,000 – Leesa Manion, King County Prosecutor

    $ 750 – Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State.

    $ 750 – King County Proposition 1 – Conservation Futures Levy.

    $ 750 – Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon

    $ 750 – Sen. Joe Nguyen

    • Chris speaks for his motion.
    • Membership votes to Approve unanimously via show of credentials.
    • Art Chippendale moves and Daniel Pinsker seconds that we contribute $500 to Leah Griffin’s campaign.
    • Art speaks for his motion
    • Chris Porter speaks against
    • Membership votes on Art’s motion. YES – 2, NO – 15. Motion Fails 

    Good of the Order

    • Ann Martin – West Seattle Democratic Meeting on September 22 will feature a speaker on the recent Dodd Decision on Abortion.
    • Chris Porter – Covid is still a problem. Vaccinate, mask, and test.

    The meeting is adjourned at 9:35pm by Chair Rogers.

    Executive Board Meeting

    2022-10-19 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    October 19, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:00 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: 

    xCarla RogersxJulie WhitakerxSarah Koch
    Aaron Garcia VirgenKaren RichterSoleil Lewis
    Annie PhillipsLeah GriffinxSteven Butts
    xBunny HatcherxNick BonazzaxTed Barker
    xChris PorterxRachel GlassxTrey Lykins
    Deena LedgerRoxanne Thayer
    Gina ToppxSara Smith

    Welcome & Introductions & Reminder of Social Contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • Last month’s minutes approved by unanimous consent 
    • Agenda for tonight approved by unanimous consent

    Chair’s Report 

    • Lawsuit update: Sept 23, all 3 within the lawsuit bundle were dismissed 
    • Bank Issue (Umpqua) – MoneyMinder is a tool we use to track our funds, and due to an upgrade, appears to no longer be compatible with Umpqua with no fix on the horizon.  Suggestion to change banks when we are less busy financially. BECU and Sound Credit Union appear to be good options. Treasurer and Chair will pursue. No need for a vote for this piece of business.  
    • Updates from latest Zoom Meeting
      • All campaign donations have been made
      • Received thank-you’s from candidates
    • November 16 Board meeting – 11000 35th Ave SW, 6:30-8:30pm 
    • December POP UP Social – December 9, Can Bar in White Center

    End of Year Tasks

    • Recruiting Mode! 
      • Send names to Rachel and Carla 
    • Help Organize the Holiday Service Project
    • Planning for Reorganization – current board runs through January 11, setting up the next board for success, and getting out the word to new volunteers. 
    • December  
      • KCDCC Reorg planning and PCO Election
      • Financial Tracking
      • Membership Drive
        • Need to create new forms on website with new codes, promotion/communication 
        • Must encourage everyone to re-join because memberships expire at the end of the year

    Committee Reports 

    • Outreach – no new events, volunteers are not responding as much, lost touch with some folks during Covid 
    • PCO – volunteers canvassing for Leesa Manion, Friday and Saturday canvassing events for Patty Murray (press on Friday noon at C&P Coffee; Saturday at MLK Park with Senator Warren and Patty Murray), as well as phone banking, see https://secure.ngpvan.com/MqHAXiz7-U6wp5TcqGSArw2 for more information.    Need as many people to show up and canvas as possible, as some races are not going as well as we’d hoped. Turnout is vital! 
    • State Committee – Chris Porter, if re-elected as congressional district representative, will participate in the State LD reorganization, there are large costs in this role, due to driving across the state two or three times, and having to stay at hotels, which adds up for expenses.  No funds at the committee level to support those who may not have the funds to do so. Brings up the question of whether using Zoom makes more sense. 
      • King County Dems – emphasis on GOTV and upcoming elections, some discussion of LD re-orgs  
    • Endorsements & Resolutions – 30 resolutions, 18 passed by membership, 2 were initiatives, and 2 became charter amendments.  Kudos to Ann Martin, editor of the year for endorsements and resolutions.  A very effective year! 
    • Programs (Holiday Service Project) – Sean Goode with Choose 180 is interested and will get back in touch with Rachel after their major event closes soon.  Other options are coming in, and Rachel will have more information soon for the board and members. 
    • PLAC – Platform Legislative Action Committee – Carla has been working with caucus members and leads to put together their legislative pre-session Q&A (6 participants, 4 caucuses, and the 3 moderators who will be asking the questions. Carla is interested in being on this committee next year.  
    • Equity & Social Justice – Soleil not present, possibly stepping down. 
    • Fundraising & Events – Gina not present, currently heading up November 9th Eileen Cody program.  
    • Membership – getting ready for 2023 forums 
    • Communications – Carla plans to continue in this role unless someone else expresses interest. 
    • Awards – several elected officials will be present to give toasts to Eileen Cody for her 28 years of dedicated service, and members are welcome to add other toasts to celebrate her work.  The 34th is hosting the event and encourages members to bring side dishes to share.   PLEASE SUBMIT AWARD NOMINATIONS!  
    • Caucus & Elections, Young Dems, OPEN, No reports

    Good of the Order 

    • None this month 

    Adjourned at   8:34 pm by Carla Rogers, Chair 

    Executive Board Meeting

    22-09-25 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats Board Meeting Minutes

    September 21, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:20 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: 

    xCarla RogersxJulie WhitakerSarah Koch
    Aaron Garcia VirgenKaren RichterSoleil Lewis
    xGina ToppLeah GriffinxSteven Butts
    xBunny HatcherxNick BonazzaxTed Barker
    xChris PorterxRachel GlassxTrey Lykins
    xSara SmithRoxanne Thayer


    Welcome & Introductions & Reminder of Social Contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • Last month’s minutes approved by unanimous consent 
    • Agenda for tonight approved by unanimous consent

    Chair’s Report 

    • Update on lawsuit
    • First in-person meeting last month, attendance was a little low, perhaps continue with Zoom.  Cost and labor seem out of balance with attendance. Perhaps in-person meetings should be quarterly. 
    • October Meetings via Zoom 
    • November 16 in person at Carla’s house? 
    • Board members should work recruit their replacements, present a role description at October meeting
    • “Stay Housed, Stay Healthy” letter going to Burien City Council has requested 34th Dem sign-on; Rachel Glass moved that we sign on to the letter as the Executive Board, Steve Butts seconded to sign on, 7 yeses and 10 attending so a quorum of the board approved the request. 

    End of Year Tasks

    • Need volunteers to organize the Holiday Service Project, may choose 180 this year, contact Carla or Rachel to assist.  The project is in lieu of a December meeting. 
    • Planning for Reorganization, hosted by King County 
    • Must continue through the end of the year:
      • Financial Tracking 
      • Membership drive; all memberships expire (except PCOs) at the end of the year and everyone must re-submit their membership 
        • New forms on website, please promotion and communicate
    • Planning meeting on October 3rd for November in-person meeting and a toast to Eileen Cody 
    • November 9 meeting will be focused on Caucus and Awards 

    Initiative Donations Recommendation 

    • General support for initiative 1B, for Highline School. Chris Porter moved to donate $750 toward the initiative, Ted Barker seconded, and unanimous vote to affirm the recommendation to the membership. 

    Final Outreach Event

    • One outreach item remains, Steve has 2 volunteers and the 33rd will be there as well. 
      • B-Town Fiesta – Saturday, September 24, 10am-6pm – Burien Town Center Park 

    PCO Activities 

    • PCOs need to cover their precincts

    Committee Reports

    • State Committee – First in-person State Party meeting was held in September with a high number of proxies in part due to Covid. Party is considering the future of in-person meetings. 
      • King County Dems – Bunny Hatcher and Ted Barker reported on endorsement by King County Dems, four resolutions, one for reinstating child tax credit, one for saving our democracy, one for Covid, and one for Preserve our Futures/parks levy.
    • Endorsements & Resolutions – discussion postponed due to Jan 6th investigation 
    • Programs – planning a panel on public safety 
    • PLAC – Carla is working on a Q&A with legislators, finding volunteers who are comfortable asking the questions 
    • Equity & Social Justice – Soleil is not present 
    • Fundraising Events – Gina Topp working on November meeting and toast to Eileen Cody, wants help on Holiday Party (planning meeting on Oct 3rd at 6pm).  Event will be at the Hall with a champagne toast, cash bar, bring a potluck side dish to share 
    • Membership – Trey Lykins reports  working with membership is mostly preparing for next year, November and early December tasks   
    • Communications – Carla working on additional Eileen Cody materials to encourage turn-out in the November meeting, requested everyone to attend and encourage attendance in November. 
    • Awards Committee – Chris Porter: committee is forming and will give out awards in the last meeting in November 9th meeting. Bunny, Preston, and Julie on the committee, Chris will check and confirm the form is good so Carla can put it out in email. Need nominations by the 30th for judging.  
    • Caucus & Elections, Young Dems – positions are OPEN, so no reports

    Adjourned at 8:42 pm by Carla Rogers, Chair 

    Monthly Meeting

    2022-9-14 Membership Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    September 14, 2022 Membership Meeting  Minutes

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

    6:30pm Pre-meeting Program

    • A 9-11 remembrance was given by Annabel Quintero, a survivor of the attack on the World Trade Center in 2001. She is the author of Step Step Jump, a book inspired by that event.
    • A presentation about the advocacy group, the Northwest Progressive Institute was given by its founder Andrew Villeneuve.

    7:30pm Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Chair Rogers thanked those who helped with organizing the meeting, our first in-person since February 2020.
    • Land & First Peoples Acknowledgment – 1st Vice Chair Rachel Glass

    VIP Acknowledgements:

    • Leslie Harris – discussed the tentative agreement between the Seattle School District and the Seattle Education Association.
    • Joe Nguyen – chose not to speak.
    • Chris Porter – will be seeking reelection to the board of the King Conservation District.
    • Speak Up Survey question for September – Is there interest in attending an informational meeting about 34th Executive Board Roles for 2023/2024?

    Approval of Tonight’s Agenda and Last Month’s Minutes

    • Ann Martin moved, and Bunny Hatcher seconded to approve the agenda. Passed by unanimous consent.
    • Ann Martin moved, and Chris Porter seconded to approve minutes from August meeting. Passed by unanimous consent.

    Budget and Membership Report

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the financials since the last meeting.
    • Outsized spending for August includes printing of PCO doorbelling material
    • Current membership stands at 273, including 94 PCOs.

    Chair’s Announcements

    • Pop Up Social – September 24 at Ounces
    • The October membership meeting will be on Zoom, Lisa Herbold will be speaking.
    • The Executive Board meeting will be on Wednesday September 21 on Zoom.
    • Adopt-A-Street work party will be on Saturday September 17th.
    • The Awards Committee needs additional Volunteers.
    • The Outreach Committee will have a booth at the B-Town Fiesta on Saturday September 24
    • The November meeting will be in person and will feature “Cheers” to retiring Eileen Cody.
    • Reorganization will take place on January 11, 2023, when officers will be elected, and committee chairs are seated.

    PCO Appointment and Campaign Activities

    • Preston Anderson introduces Graham Murphy who volunteers to become PCO for SEA 34-1410.
    • Chris Porter moves and Michael Parker seconds to appoint Graham as PCO.
    • Graham is appointed by a voice vote to his new role.
    • Two Coordinated Campaign Organizers speak about campaign volunteer opportunities. Ryan O’Connor will serve as the Organizer for the 34th LD.
    • Leesa Manion’s campaign manager CS Wright speaks on her behalf.
    • Candidates for 34th LD Representative Emily Alvarado and Leah Griffin speak in turn.
    • Doorhangers were distributed to PCOs present at the meeting.
    • Chair Rogers described the September 10th canvassing trip to Covington to doorbell for Kim Schrier.
    • The next trip will be on Sunday, September 25. More will be planned for October.
    • A short video of the story behind Barack Obama’s campaign cry “Fired up, Ready to go!” is shown.

    Highline Schools Levy

    • Lois Schipper describes the levy. Tyee and Evergreen High Schools, and Pacific Middle School will be rebuilt.
    • Joe Nguyen moves and Chris Porter seconds to endorse the levy.
    • Joe speaks in favor.
    • Membership votes to endorse unanimously by show of credentials.

    Seattle Proposition 1A and 1B – Approval and Ranked Choice Voting

    Troy Logan from the group Seattle Approves describes Prop 1A – Approval Voting.

    Two representatives from the group FairVote Washington describes Prob 1B – Ranked Choice Voting.

    The ballot measure voting procedure is explained. It will be in two parts: Question 1 is a YES or NO vote to change the Seattle voting process. Question 2 is a choice between the two voting methods. Voters may choose 1A or 1B, regardless of their vote for Question 1. If YES prevails in the Question 1 vote, the majority winner between Prop 1A or Prop 1B prevails.

    • Ann Martin moves and Richard Bartlett seconds to endorse Prop 1B.
    • Ann speaks for. Ted Barker Speaks against.
    • Members vote on Prop 1B:
    • First Ballot: YES – 11, NO – 7, NO POSITION – 5. NO POSITION is dropped.
    • Second Ballot: YES – 16, NO – 6
    • Prop 1B is endorsed.
    • Martha Koester moves and Daniel Pinsker seconds to endorse Prop 1A.
    • Martha speaks for. Chris Lampkin speaks against.
    • Members vote on Prop 1A:
    • YES – 2, NO – 15, NO POSITION – 7.
    • No Endorsement for Prop 1A.

    General Election Contributions

    • The Executive Board proposes these donation amounts:

    $2,000 – Leesa Manion, King County Prosecutor.

    $1,000 – Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State.

    $1,000 – King County Proposition 1 – Conservation Futures Levy.

    $1,000 – Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, he will share in tight legislative district races.

    • Chris Porter moves, and Preston Anderson seconds to donate to Sen. Joe Nguyen, who also will put his contribution to work in more competitive LDs. To stay within the $5000 total Chris proposes this allocation:

    $2,000 – Leesa Manion, King County Prosecutor

    $ 750 – Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State.

    $ 750 – King County Proposition 1 – Conservation Futures Levy.

    $ 750 – Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon

    $ 750 – Sen. Joe Nguyen

    • Chris speaks for his motion.
    • Membership votes to Approve unanimously via show of credentials.
    • Art Chippendale moves and Daniel Pinsker seconds that we contribute $500 to Leah Griffin’s campaign.
    • Art speaks for his motion
    • Chris Porter speaks against
    • Membership votes on Art’s motion. YES – 2, NO – 15. Motion Fails 

    Good of the Order

    • Ann Martin – West Seattle Democratic Meeting on September 22 will feature a speaker on the recent Dodd Decision on Abortion.
    • Chris Porter – Covid is still a problem. Vaccinate, mask, and test.

    The meeting is adjourned at 9:35pm by Chair Rogers.

     

    Executive Board Meeting

    22-08-25 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    Thursday August 25, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Nick Bonazza, Rachel Glass, Ted Barker, Bunny Hatcher, Gina Topp, Sarah Koch, Trey Lykins, Steve Butts, Roxanne Thayer, Leah Griffin, and Chris Porter.

    7:15 – Call to Order

    • Welcome & Review of Agenda and Minutes 
    • Last month’s minutes approved by unanimous consent 
    • Agenda for tonight approved by unanimous consent

    Chair’s Updates (Carla Rogers)

    • Glen Morgan is still pursuing his lawsuit and we continue to incur legal expenses. The 34th is collaborating with three other organizations who have already had their cases heard. We will be in court on September 23.
    • We will provide information to members about a march and rally on September 24 led by Citizens for the Universal Abolition of Nuclear Weapons, however we will not be formally aligning with the group.
    • Volunteers are needed or a PCO packet collating party, either September 9th or 12th. Help will also be needed to deliver the packets.
    • Volunteers are also needed to form an Awards Committee. Gifts from Avalon Glass will again be given to honorees.
    • Board members are to decide upon their roles for the new term starting in January 2023. If they are not resuming their current position, they are asked to help find their successors. Carla stated that she will not seek to return as Chair.

    Committee Reports

    Outreach Committee (Steve Butts)

    • 3 more events this summer; will provide Google sign-up sheets.
      • Seattle Folklorico Festival – Aug. 27
      • Adopt-A-Street clean up party – Sept. 11
      • B-Town Fiesta – Sept. 24

    PCO Committee (Nick Bonazza)

    • Preston Anderson and Soleil Lewis were making contacts in South Park and seeking PCOs. Soleil is also working on securing apartment building captains.
    • A GOTV rally will be part of the September in-person meeting, and canvass packets will be distributed.
    • Kim Schrier canvass events will take place on September 10 and 25, 11:30 to 3:30. Members will meet at Arbor Heights Elementary and carpool to Covington.

    Endorsements and Resolutions (Bunny Hatcher)

    • Reviewed the Climate Emergency resolution submitted by Katherine Woolverton. The resolution was discussed, then approved by the board by a voice vote for referral to membership with a Do Pass recommendation.

    Fundraising and Events (Gina Topp)

    • The November meeting will include a toast to Eileen Cody and member Achievement Awards will be given.
    • Awards planning meeting will be October 3rd at 6pm.

    Programs (Rachel Glass)

    • September meeting will include a presentation by Andrew Villeneuve, founder of the Northwest Progressive Institute, and September 11 survivor and author of a book on that experience, Annabel Quintero, will also speak.
    • October meeting will feature Seattle Councilperson Lisa Herbold.

    State Party (Chris Porter)

    • The quarterly State Party meeting will be held September 17 and 18, in-person only.

    King County Democrats (Ted Barker)

    • The KCDCC followed our lead for endorsements for State Representative positions.
    • The August meeting will be on the 30th.
    • Plans are underway for a BBQ.
    • PCO filings in May were down from the previous term.

    Membership (Trey Lykins)

    • Seeking information and assistance for the September in-person meeting, particularly regarding name tags and audio support.

    Final Months of Term Plan (Carla Rogers)

    • October 21 Pop Up Social will be at Beer Star in White Center
    • Board meeting for September will be on the 21st. Carla will be out of town but will lead the meeting from her hotel room.
    • Board meeting on October 19 may be in person.
    • November 9th general meeting will feature a pre-session Q and A with our representatives. 
    • November board meeting may be an open house, interested people will be invited to attend to learn about the roles.
    • A service project is planned for December, details to be determined.
    • End of PCO and board terms is November 30. There will be no December meeting.
    • Reorganization will take place January 11, 2023.

    Candidate/initiative contributions were discussed. Gina Topp moved, and Chris Porter seconded, then it was approved by the board with a show of hands that we give out the following amounts:

    • $2,000 to Leesa Manion for King County Prosecutor
    • $1,000 to Steve Hobbs for Secretary of State.
    • $1,000 to the KC Proposition 1 – Conservation Futures Levy.
    • $1,000 to Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon (who passes funds to critical legislative races in other districts).

    Good of the Order

    • Chris Porter is running for re-election to the King Conservation District Board of Supervisors in 2023.
    • Gina Topp and Roxanne Thayer thanked Carla for her leadership the past 2 years.
    • Ted Barker mentioned the We Heart West Seattle event and will post information in Slack.

    Meeting adjourned by Carla Rogers at approximately 9 pm.

     

    2022-08-10 Membership Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    August 10, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    6:30 Presentation on Police Reform by Rob Saka, introduced by Bill Schrier; recording available here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCON7J56wtBveqzF0xVywhrg  

    7:42 Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Update on current election events and notable primaries; encouraged to the 34th to stay involved and support our blue candidates!  
    • Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass 
    • VIP Acknowledgements
      •  Joe Fitzgibbon – discussed voter turn-out trends across the nation and motivating factors, such as Supreme Court overturning Roe and Jan 6 hearings 
      • Dow Constantine – deferred until the Prop 1 section of the agenda 
    • Speak Up Survey is BACK! https://bit.ly/SpeakUp-Aug22 

    Approval of Tonight’s Agenda and Last Month’s Minutes 

    • Karen Richter moved and Ann Martin seconded to approve the agenda. Passed by unanimous consent.
    • Ann Martin moved and Julie Whitaker seconded to approve the minutes. Passed by unanimous consent.

    Budget and Membership Reports

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the financials since the last meeting.    
      • Income increased this month largely due to the fundraiser. Ticket sales were recognized previously in the months they were received.  Paint the Night Blue Fundraiser made about $10-$11k after expenses. 
      • Current membership is 269, including 98 PCOs. 

    Chair’s Announcements 

    • August Pop Up Social – August 26, 5:30 – 8pm at Good Society Brewery and Public House 
    • Next meeting in person!!! September 14, 6:00-9pm, at the Hall at Fauntleroy, and hosting the General Election GOTV Kick Off
    • Next board meeting is Thursday, August 25, 7-8:30 (Zoom)
    • King County Dems LAC committee volunteer sought, contact chair@34dems.org

    What’s Ahead in 2022 

    • September In-Person Meeting – first one in two years!
    • October 12 Pre-Meeting Program (Public Safety) and Meeting on Zoom
    • November 8 General Election
    • November 9 Meeting – Year End Celebration
      • Pre-session Q&A with Legislators
      • 2022 34th Awards
      • Tribute to Rep Eileen Cody
    • No December Meeting
      • Service Project 
      • December is the end of the term, and the 34th will undergo reorganization in January (election of officers)

    Conserve our Futures: YES on Prop. 1 

    • Proposition No. 1 Conservation Futures Property Tax Levy
    • Dow Constantine presented regarding the levy restoring the conservation futures fund protecting the local wildland environments, greenspaces, and recreational areas 
    • Chris Porter moved and Ann Martin seconded to endorse the resolution. Chris Porter spoke for endorsement. 
    • Unanimous vote in favor of the motion to endorse. 

    PCO Appointments & Upcoming Plans

    • New PCO Appointments
      • Soleil Lewis White Center – Bernice
      • Dorothy Gesick SEA 34 – 1480
    • Nick Bonazza moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded to appoint these new PCOs. 
    • Unanimous voice vote welcomed these new PCOs to their roles! 

    GOTV Plans 

    • September 14 GOTV Kick Off Event – The Hall 6-9pm
      • PCO Recognition & GOTV Material Distribution
      • Hear from our Endorsed Candidates! 
      • Inspirational Pre-Meeting Program
    • Help Re-elect Dr. Kim Schrier! 
      • National implications!
      • 2 Field Trips scheduled, more based on participation, 12-3pm  canvass, including training
        • Meet at Arbor Heights Elementary to carpool to canvas in the 8th (Covington)
        • Saturday, Sept 10 & Sunday, September 25 – meet both days at 11:15am
    • Door-knocking has proven to increase voter turn-out

    Upcoming Outreach Events

    Contact outreach@34dems.org  to participate!!!

    Boulevard Park Block PartySaturday August 1312pm – 6pm1832 S. 120th St.
    Seattle Folklorico FestivalSaturday, August 2711am – 5pmWestcrest Park
    Adopt-A-Street*Sunday, September 11th1pm – 3pm16th Ave SW at Roxbury
    B-Town FiestaSaturday, September 2410am – 6pmBurien Town Center Park
    *New Date

    Resolutions

    • Bunny Hatcher presented on “A Resolution Calling for Passage of the Local Journalism Sustainability Act”
    • Ann Martin moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded to endorse the resolution, as amended for clarity.  Ann Martin spoke for the resolution.  
    • Unanimous vote in favor of the motion to adopt the resolution.

    Fundraiser Wrap Up 

    • Many thanks to Gina Topp and her team for putting on an excellent Fundraiser this year! 

    Good of the Order 

    • Ann Martin – West Seattle Democratic Women Picnic at Ann Martin’s house, please RSVP MartinHTAM@gmail.com so they have enough pizza!  

    Adjourned at 8:55pm by Carla Rogers, Chair