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    Carla Rogers

    Executive Board Meeting

    22-03-16 Board Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    March 16, 2022, – In-person meeting held at Youngstown Arts Center

    7:05 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: 

    xCarla RogersxBunny HatcherxKaren Richter, by phone
    xSteven ButtsxColleen HintonxRoxanne Thatcher
    Aaron Garcia, by phonexSarah KochxNick Bonazza
    xRachel GlassChris PorterxGina Topp
    xLeah GriffinxDeena Ledger, by phonexTrey Lykins
    xSoleil Lewis

    Welcome & Reminder of Our Social Contract

    Introduction of New Board Members

    Carla introduced Soleil Lewis, new Social Justice and Equity Chair.  Soleil described her background and current activities.

    Carla introduced David Toledo, 34th member for about 10 years, as a guest to the meeting.  He is interested in filling the 2nd Vice Chair (vacant since Jordan Crawley resigned) and/or Elections & Caucus Chair role (vacated by Colleen Hinton being redistricted to the 33rd) and is here to learn more about being on the Board.  Board members introduced themselves to David.    

    Gina Topp suggested the Board invest in technology so that people attending Board meetings by phone can hear the meeting better.  

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • February’s minutes approved
    • Agenda for tonight approved

    Fundraiser Update

    Gina announced 30 people have signed up – we have a deal on the space and the food and we will be able to cancel if needed.  The goal is 100 tickets sold.  Arthur’s Restaurant on 2311 California Ave. is the venue.  Next planning meeting is March 24 6:0 pm, at the restaurant – please join on Gina’s tab!  Please attend the fundraiser and bring an interested friend – Gina plans to bring a friend who has attended some 34th meetings in the past and Gina wants her to get more involved.  Carla points out that we have not had a fundraiser in 2 years, so we are starting small, easing into in-person events again.  

    We are in good shape financially but it would still be nice to have a really successful fundraiser.  

    Carla stated that the Board is expected to attend events like this.  Gina stated that board members who do not want to attend can volunteer instead (day of event or prior).

    Redistricting 

    Redistricting process is complete even though there are lawsuits outstanding. We are gaining 5 PCOs and losing 14. We are gaining 23 precincts from Georgetown, Pioneer Square, SODO, High Point. We will do a pop up social in Georgetown in May. 

    2022 Delegate Caucus 

    The Caucus is Saturday and we are prepared with script, attendees and ballots. Immediate action will be needed post-Caucus and Convention planning activities will be going through May. Convention is June 24-26 in Tacoma.

    Bylaws and Endorsement Rule Changes/Updates 

    Each person received a printout of the section of the bylaws – Section VIII onward.  We focused mostly on material changes and debated any changes accordingly. After reviewing all sections, the board agreed to proceed to membership review. Move to approve as amended Leah moved to approve as amended and Rachel seconded. Motion passed with all members in agreement.

    Carla will give notice to membership that we intend to change the bylaws and we will review them at the May meeting. The endorsement rules will become an addendum to the Bylaws. The current rules of endorsement will be used this cycle. 

    Announcements

    Budget committee member needed – does anybody know anyone with some financial skills?

    We are being asked to do early endorsements in April – US Senate and WA SoS, the others will be in June.  

    Good of the Order 

    • Karen Richter has a request on behalf of Puget Sound Association of Retired Activists – this will be a resolution which we will vote on in Slack and take to the membership in April. 
    • Colleen bade farewell to the Board, thanks Carla and Nick in particular for great mentoring and learning.  Hopes to continue to work with the 34th in partner projects with the 33rd.   

    8:45 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair

     

    Monthly Meeting

    2022-3-9 General Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats General Meeting Minutes

    March 9, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    Pre-Meeting Program 

    7:18 – Call to Order by Carla Rogers, Chair  

    Chair’s Remarks

    • Gun safety legislation prevailed in recent weeks 
    • SB5078 is on its way to Gov Inslee’s desk
    • Some climate bills made it through and congratulations to our caucuses
    • Speak-up survey:    https://bit.ly/Mar22-Speak-Up-Survey 

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass

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

    • Ann Martin moved and Rachel Glass seconded to approve the agenda. Approved with a unanimous voice vote.
    • Ann Martin moved and Earl Godt seconded to approve the minutes. Approved with a unanimous voice vote.

    Budget and Membership Reports

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker provided the budget report for February.    
      • Budget remained largely the same due to membership income and standard expenses  
      • Remember to renew! https://34dems.org/contribute/  
      • Current membership: 91 (plus 102 PCO’s) partially due to redistricting 
      • Change Makes $ense: https://bit.ly/change-makes-sense 
      • Need one volunteer to participate on the budget committee in April-May

    Candidate Spotlight

    • Leesa Manion – King County Prosecutor
    • Damon Shadid – Seattle Municipal Judge, running for position #7
    • Faye R Chess – Seattle Municipal Judge, running for position #6

    Presentation re: Seattle Approves, Initiative 134 Approval Voting

    Fundraising 

    • Presented by Gina Topp, Fundraising and Events Chair 
    • July 14th 6pm – 8pm Fundraiser to be held at Arthur’s, 2311 California Avenue SW, Admiral Junction
    • Tickets: https://bit.ly/2022-Fundraiser  
    • Purchase tickets today and your contribution will be matched. 

    PCO Update 

    • Appointment of PCOs by Nick Bonazza 
    • Nick presented Zachary Ricketts for 34-3767, swore him in, and confirmed he was a democrat. 
    • Rachel Glass motioned and Ann Martin seconded to approve the appointment.  
    • Zoom poll had 100% approval.    

    Redistricting 

    • Process is complete and despite some lingering lawsuits, we must move forward.  
    • Redistricting final steps:
      • LDs have 45 days to begin meeting within their new boundaries that are adopted for elections occurring in November of the year 2022 and beyond.
      • The terms of office of elected and appointed PCOs are unaffected by any precinct boundary changes related to the 2021 redistricting
      • The term of office of any other individual whose election is regulated by Article IX.B of the Bylaws (i.e. only PCOs may vote in the election) is unaffected by the change of geographic boundaries unless the elected and appointed PCOs residing within the new boundaries determine by majority vote at the first post-redistricting meeting that a new election shall be held for that office.
    • Bunny Hatcher motioned and Karen Richter seconded to keep current officers in place for the rest of the term.  
      • Zoom poll had 100% approval. 

    2022 Delegate Caucus 

    2022 Caucus Rules

    Outreach Committee 

    • Presented by Karen Richter and Steve Butts 
    • Discussed a variety of upcoming events (including parades!) and planning needs which require several volunteers to coordinate and participate, as well as set up and take down.  
    • Contact volunteer@34dems.org for more information 

    Announcements 

    • GREAT February pop-up social at Whisky West! Also, Senator Nguyen attended and answered many questions. 
    • Next pop-up event is March 25 at Future Primitive Brewery, 5:30 – 8:00 
    • Next board meeting is March 16, 7-8:30 at Youngstown Art Center (need volunteers for technical things, communications, and a few other items) 

    Good of the Order

    • Chris Porter – Remember that affirmative action numbers represent the floor, not the ceiling  
    • Elizabeth Heath – Democratic women meeting re: voting rights and the role of the press in Democracy, look for more information coming soon 
    • Rachel Glass – Bill 1914 regarding a film incentive program has made it out of the House and is headed to the Senate. Films made in the state improve the economy, film infrastructure is in place and ready to support it! 

    Adjourned at 8:58 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

     

    Stop Privatizing Medicare

    Medicare Resolution

     1024 1024 34th Democrats

    Adopted by the membership on April 13, 2022 at the monthly membership meeting.

    Whereas, Medicare has been our national health care system for seniors and the disabled in the United States since 1965; and

    Whereas, Medicare beneficiaries are among the most vulnerable populations served by our health care system, and need more, not fewer, benefits and protections; and

    Whereas, traditional Medicare, which does not insert a middleman between the Medicare beneficiary and their chosen health care provider, is a public good and should not be privatized; and

    Whereas, Wall Street has long sought to profit from public benefit programs, such as Social Security, and has rushed to buy up Accountable Care Organizations managing traditional Medicare services; and

    Whereas, the Trump administration opened the door to the complete privatization of Medicare through a Direct Contracting pilot program allowing private equity firms, insurance companies, and corporate health businesses to directly contract to provide Medicare services; and

    Whereas, the Biden administration ended the Direct Contracting pilot and rebranded it as the ACO REACH (Accountable Care Organization Realizing Equity, Access, and Community Health) pilot to begin in January of 2023; and 

    Whereas, public health advocates across the country see little difference between ACO REACH and the Direct Contracting pilot, since both pilot programs allow third party private entities to wedge themselves between patients and their healthcare providers and to draw down the Medicare Trust Fund by making huge profits in several ways, including weakening services for Medicare beneficiaries; and 

    WHEREAS, addressing the healthcare resource inequities suffered by BIPOC individuals and communities is best done within the traditional Medicare system and not through a privatized ACO REACH style program; 

    NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the 34th Legislative District Democratic Organization opposes privatization of our Medicare system; and supports terminating the ACO REACH pilot program and closing the door on third party entities in our Medicare system; and

    BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, a copy of this resolution be sent to the Washington State US Senators and Congressional Delegation, and  to President Biden and US Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra.

    Submitted by Karen Richter, 34th LD Democratic Organization member and Co-Chair of the Outreach Committee. Karen also serves as Co-President of Puget Sound Advocates for Retirement Action (PSARA}

    Delegate Caucus

    2022 Delegate Caucus Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    Minutes from the 34th Legislative District Democratic Caucus

    March 26, 2022

    The caucus was called to order at 10am.

    Chair Carla Rogers greeted the participants and thanked Caucus and Elections Committee Chair Colleen Hinton, Vice Chair Rachel Glass, and member Ann Martin for their help on caucus planning.

    Rachel Glass gave the Land Acknowledgement and read the Welcome Message from State Party Chair Tina Podlodowski. 

    Chair Rogers appointed persons to fill caucus roles:

    • Steve Butts as Secretary
    • Elizabeth Heath as Parliamentarian
    • Ann Martin as Caucus Credentials and Rules Chair
    • Leah Griffin as Tally Chair.

    Chair Rogers then stated the purpose of the caucus.

    Elected officials spoke:

    • State Sen. Joe Nguyen
    • State Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon
    • Burien City Councilmember Sarah Moore
    • County Councilmember Joe McDermott

    Chris Porter and Roxanne Thayer, 34th’s State Party Committeepersons, also spoke.

    Ann Martin gave the Credentials Report:

    • 169 members of the 34th were eligible to be caucus voters.
    • Of those members, 39 people registered and were credentialed to vote.
    • 35 individuals registered and were eligible to be candidates for delegate.
    • 33 persons were present at the time of the report, and it was determined that the quorum was met.

    The Credentials Report was adopted without objection.

    Ann Martin presented the Caucus Rules as approved by the Board and Membership of the 34th District Democrats at the March 9, 2022, meeting. Ann moved for adoption of the Rules, seconded by Bunny Hatcher. The Rules were approved unanimously.

    Chair Rogers explained the voting rules to select 32 Delegates and 16 Alternates to the Washington State Convention. Vice Chair Glass reviewed the affirmative action goals laid out by the state party and the results of the district’s candidate recruitment effort.

    Delegate aspirants were given the opportunity to speak to their candidacy.

    Chair Rogers read the rules for voting. She noted of particular importance that to avoid a spoiled ballot, the balance between Male/Female votes must not differ by more than one, while any number of Gender Non-Binary could be chosen. Voters would be given a chance to correct their ballot should they make an error. A link to the online ballot was placed in the Zoom Chat section and would also be sent to voters via email. Ballots were to be submitted no later than 5pm. The results were to be announced via email the evening of March 27.

    Chair Rogers will be contacting Delegates after the election to coordinate the times for two meetings prior to the State Convention to answer questions and pick our representatives to the Convention Committees. Our delegation can submit up to 32 amendments to the State Platform and submit up to two resolutions to the Convention. Delegates can attend the Convention, which will be June 25th, either in person or virtually.

    An opportunity was given to speak at Good of the Order.

    The caucus adjourned at 11:30.

     

    2022-03-23 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    February 23, 2022, – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

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

    Attendees: 

    xCarla RogersxBunny HatcherxKaren Richter
    xSteven ButtsxColleen HintonxRoxanne Thatcher
    Aaron Garcia VirgenxSarah KochxSara Smith
    xRachel GlassChris PorterxGina Topp
    xLeah GriffinxDeena LedgerxJulie Whitaker
    xTrey LykinsxNick BonazzaxSoleil Lewis

    Welcome & Reminder of Our Social Contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • January’s minutes approved by voice
    • Agenda for tonight approved by voice 

    Decisions & Announcements 

    • The board agreed that hosting the endorsement meeting on Zoom was preferred over In-person due to higher anticipated participation.  Will need people to provide technical support. 
    • Budget committee needs a 3rd person. Work includes 1-2 meetings. Contact the Chair or Treasurer to participate.  Will also be added to the member meeting agenda. 
    • Board member positions are open.  
      • Need a Vice Chair #2 and a Caucus & Elections Chair (after redistricting) 
      • Need a new Young Democrats delegate. 
      • Leah Griffin volunteered to do Twitter. 
    • Carla will be making updates to the Standing Rules for Review by the board in a future month.
    • March 16 Board Meeting is in person at Youngstown Arts, 7:00 – 8:30 

     Redistricting 

    • Redistricting was completed on Feb 9.  
    • Encourage departing folks to join the 33rd District Democrats, contact person is their Chair, Terri Lindeke. 
    • Incoming PCOs are not yet identified by the state. We know of 4 incoming PCOs so far.
    • Incoming members from other LD’s may be shared by the state via Miinivan
    • PCOs MAY vote on whether to reorganize during the March meeting 
    • Reminder: upcoming Caucus uses the new district boundaries 

    2022 Delegate Caucus 

    • March 26, virtual caucus, details still under discussion 
    • 32 Delegates, 16 Alternates
    • Approve Caucus Rules at March membership meeting (Caucus rules provided by the State and can be amended by the district to some degree) 
    • Members and PCOs vote, must be a member by Feb 25, same as last year’s process 
    • Those running to be Delegates must register
    • Voting ballots will be offline (open 10am – 5pm) 
    • June 25 State Convention (either virtual or in-person)
    • Voice in: convention rules, Platform and Resolutions
    • Affirmative Action goals (gain delegates if met) 
    • Contact Rachel Glass if you know folks who would be open to an invitation to be a Delegate.  Particularly looking for minority populations with the goal of being as diverse and inclusive as possible for our delegation.  There were questions about a previous list from the 2020 Caucus.  
    • Deadline to provide the State a list of which Delegates will attend in person and who will attend virtually – April 1st

    July Fundraiser 

    • Gina Topp is chairing the event. Will be held at Arthur’s Restaurant in Admiral, hosting free of charge, plus discounted price for food and beverages. Planning on serving heavy appetizers.  Planning meetings are underway.  March 24th at 7 pm is the next planning meeting.  

    Bylaws and Endorsement Rule Changes/Updates 

    • Carla explained the behind-the-scenes work that has already taken place, and requested meeting time focus on material changes.  
    • The document must go to membership 30 days prior to endorsements. Ergo, Board must approve by March 13 in order to maintain required timeline.  If another board meeting is required, it will push the timeline past the endorsement cut-off requirement.  
    • Bylaws are much harder to change, so important to stay somewhat high level.  Rules are easier to change and are the place to make more frequent updates.  
    • Sarah Koch presented the edited documents for review. 
      • Discussion about membership and voting changes
      • Language around PCO and precinct coordinator and additional clarification
      • Clarifying “resident” and voluntary membership
      • Remote participation will be covered in rules, voting is covered in the bylaws 
    • A vote was held on: 
      • A. 4.1 and 5.2 changing to “voluntarily submitted a membership form” by hand-raise, received 5 votes
      • B. 4.1 and 5.2 would say “is aged 16 years or older” received 4 votes
      • Option A received more votes.  Not everyone present voted. 
    • Section 8 through the end will be deferred to the next meeting due to time constraints. 
    • Article 12 is new content. 
    • Please review the document in detail for the next board meeting.  

    Good of the Order 

    • DCE (direct contracting entities) and Medicare; DCE’s sometimes send patients to private care unbeknownst to the patient.  May be an item to be brought to the membership at some point. 

    9:04 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair

     

    Monthly Meeting

    02-09-22 General Membership Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    General Membership Meeting Minutes
    February 9, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    Pre-Meeting Special Program 

    • Skylink Program – Give Seattle a Lift! Martin Westerman and Martin Pagel 
      • Gondola options were explored and approved by SDOT prior to 2020. 
      • Stated that a gondola will be less expensive and impact less forest and existing buildings 
      • Group is requesting the 34th District Democrats provide a resolution to support a study 
    • Learn more:    https://www.westseattleskylink.org/ , contact artartart@seanet.com or westseattleskylink@gmail.com with questions.  

    7:18 – Call to Order by Carla Rogers, Chair  

    Chair’s Remarks

    • Propositions One and Two passed (Seattle Schools Capital levies)
    • Caucus Committee
    •  has started planning for upcoming delegate caucus (March 26) which leads to state convention June 25
    • Redistricting likely going into effect in a few days
    • Planning for 34th District Dems July Fundraiser has begun 
    • PCO planning for filing in May
    • Speak Up Survey: https://bit.ly/feb22-speak-up-survey  Where Should we Socialize? 
    • Midterms are coming soon to vote for US Senate and many other seats! 
    • Step up and volunteer to help maintain Democratic values and Democratic seats! 

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass
    • VIP Recognition: Special Guests and Elected Officials are invited to speak: 
      1. Burien City Councilmember Hugo Garcia Hugog@Burienwa.gov  
      2. King County Councilmember Joe McDermott Joe.McDermott@KingCounty.gov 

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

    • Roxanne Thayer moved and Rachel Glass seconded to approve the agenda. Approved with voice vote.
    • Bunny Hatcher moved and Roxanne Thayer seconded to approve the minutes. Approved with voice vote. 

    Budget and Membership Reports

    Candidate Spotlight

    • Justice Mary Yu – State Supreme Court Justice, appointed in 2014, proud to be first Asian LGBTQ member 
    • Brian Todd – King County District Court Judge, SW – King County Court South, currently assigned to Burien 
    • Lisa Paglisotti – King County District Court Judge, W – currently serve in the West division including West Seattle 
    • Rebecca Robertson – King County District Court Judge, President of District Municipal Court System 
    • Endorsement will be later in the year 

     Advocating with the WA State Legislature

    • Annie Phillips, Burien PCO and co-lead of the EELU Caucus, presenting 
      1. Concentrate on communicating with Rules Committee Chair Laurie Jinkins laurie.jinkins@leg.wa.gov 
      2. Buildings and transportation are the biggest carbon emitters 
      3. New laws must address methane, yard and kitchen waste  
      4. House bills 1619, 1663, 1767, 1774, 1770, and 1799 – keep the pressure up to move these bills to vote!  

    Steps:

    • To comment on a bill go to https://app.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/ 
    • Select House or Senate, date and time, then the bill to address 
    • Select Pro or Con to simply make your position known, or Submit Written Testimony to write an opinion
    • More information coming in the Sunday Newsletter!

    Resolution to Consider

    • Bunny Hatcher presented on “Resolution in Support of Climate Bills Pending in the 2022 Washington State Legislature” https://34dems.org/resolution-in-support-of-2022-climate-bills/ 
    • Randy Litzenberger moved to amend the resolution to include HB 1619 concerning appliance efficiency and striking HB 1084 concerning buildings.  Rachel Glass seconded.  Amendment passed by voice vote. 
    • Rachel Glass moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded for the motion to go to the 34th members for approval. 
    • Poll results for the motion: 100% yes, resolution is adopted.  

    Healthcare Caucus Report & Whole WA Video

    The 34th LD Healthcare Caucus is dedicated to the transformation of our healthcare system.  

    Goals: 1) All inclusive- everybody in, nobody out; 2) Not for profit; 3) With comprehensive benefits; 4) Free at point of service.   UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE. 

    • Jen Nye, Chair of Healthcare Caucus, presenting update on Resolution Regarding Non-discriminatory, Medically Comprehensive Healthcare in Washington State  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mezZog0V1_qArDNDwBQmys0q6YQNcxl5/edit
    • Keep Our Care Act (SB 5688 / HB 1809) would put controls on runaway corporate health mergers & acquisitions. Corporate hospital takeovers decrease competition and choice of provider, increase wait times, and limit access to or deny abortions, gender-affirming care, end of life care / death with dignity
    • 48 percent of hospitals are owned by religious organizaitons and can limit care options 
    • Remove profit incentive from healthcare 
    • Contact and make your voice heard HCAUniversalHCC@hca.wa.gov 
    • Use the app app.leg.wa.gov/csi and make your voice heard 

      WHOLE WASHINGTON: Andre Stackhouse presenting (206.715.7085; captainstack@gmail.com;  http//twitter.com/CaptainStack )

    • 2022 Campaign Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnBoDWytUOA   
    • Universal Public Health Insurance is designed to better cover all Washington state residents and costs less.  Need 400,000 signatures to get it on the ballot.  Need volunteers to get enough signatures. State-wide ballot initiative.    
    • Sign up to volunteer: https://wholewashington.org/volunteer/  

    Executive Board Member Appointments

    • Platform, Legislative Action Committee Chair – Deena Ledger
    • Fundraising & Events Committee Chair – Gina Topp
    • Social Justice & Equity Chair – Soleil Lewis
    • Voice vote to approve new board members unanimously approved.  
    • Thank you to the new volunteers stepping up!  

    Redistricting 

    PCO Presentation 

    • Nick Bonazza presented Deena Ledger to become a PCO for SEA 34-3263, swore her in, and motioned for her appointment. Rachel Glass seconded.  Voice vote for unanimous approval.  
    • Current term ends November 30, new term begins December 1.  Years 2023 and 2024 are very important.  
    • More training for PCOs coming up and voter registration pop-ups are also coming.  
    • Contact Nick Bonazza at pco@34dems.org. 

    Announcements 

    • Pop Up Social – Feb 18! Whiskey West, Morgan Junction. Senator Ngueyn will attend.
    • 2022 Delegate Caucus is March 26
      1. Will be held virtually
      2. 32 Delegates and 16 Alternates!
      3. To vote at Caucus you must be a member by February 25
    • Next meeting is March 9, 6:30pm pre-meeting program
    • Next board meeting is February 23, 7-8:30

    GOTO and Mark Your Calendar

    • Elizabeth Heath: West Seattle Democratic Women presenting on ranked choice voting, check West Seattle Blog for more information. 

    Adjourned at 9:07 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

     

    Proposed 2022 Delegate Caucus Rules

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Adopted by the membership on March 9, 2022 at the monthly membership meeting.

     34th District Democrats 2022 Caucus Rules

    Section 1 – General Rules

    1. Purpose of Rules – The following rules are intended to ensure that all residents of the 34th Legislative District in the State of Washington, who consider themselves Democrats and are willing to so state publicly may participate in all the activities connected with the 2022 caucus and convention cycle. All persons considering themselves to be Democrats are urged to attend meetings and to participate in discussions on the issues of the day.
    2. Application of Rules – These rules shall govern all meetings discussed in these rules. In order to protect the rights of the 34th Legislative District to retain its delegates, in whole or in part, seated at the 2022 Democratic State Convention, the district shall abide by these rules.
    3. Fees or Costs Prohibited – At no stage of the delegate selection process shall any person be required, directly or indirectly, to pay a cost or fee as a condition of participating in the delegate selection process. Requests for voluntary contributions to the Party may be made, but under no circumstances shall a contribution be requisite for participation. 
    4. Meeting Times, Locations, and Accessibility – All meetings shall be scheduled at times and dates set forth by the state Democratic Central Committee. Individuals requiring accommodations at a meeting should file requests with the entity issuing the Call at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting.
    5. Safety During the Ongoing State of Emergency – The 34th Legislative District Democratic Caucus will be held virtually. Instructions and accommodations shall be provided to facilitate full participation by any eligible 34th District resident. 
    6. Equitable Deliberation – In order to accommodate virtual delegates, motions and business will be pre-structured and noticed a minimum of seven (7) days in advance so as to allow for objections to be raised in a timely manner.
    7. Meeting Notices – Notice of any meeting shall be emailed at least ten (10) days prior to the date of the scheduled meeting to all delegates and alternates concerned. The meeting notice shall include, at least, the following information:
      1. The authority giving notice;
      2. Who is eligible to participate;
      3. Starting time, place, and address of the meeting;
      4. Proposed agenda;
      5. Proposed operating rules;
      6. Any fee, cost, etc. involved in the meeting (see Section I.3);
      7. Other pertinent, concise information to prepare the delegate for the work to be accomplished.
      8. Virtual participation information. Accommodation should be made to provide access to all of the above in alternative language format and for people with disabilities, upon request.
    8. Open Party – The 34th Legislative District Democrats recognizes and adopts the  Democratic Party of the State of Washington commitment to being an open party by incorporating the five basic elements listed below. These provisions demonstrate the intention of the Democratic Party to ensure a full opportunity for all affected group members to participate in the delegate selection process.
      1. All public meetings, at all levels of the Democratic Party, should be open to all members of the Democratic Party, regardless of status.
      2. No test for membership in, nor any oaths of loyalty to, the Democratic Party should be required or used which has the effect of requiring prospective or current members of the Democratic Party to acquiesce in, condone, or support discrimination based on status.
      3. The time and place for all public meetings of the Democratic Party, at all levels, should be publicized fully and in such a manner to assure timely notice to all interested persons. Such meetings must be held in places accessible to all party members, including people with disabilities, and large enough to accommodate all interested persons expected to attend.
      4. The Democratic Party, on all levels, should support the broadest possible registration without discrimination based on status.
      5. The Democratic Party should publicize fully and, in such a manner as to ensure notice to all interested parties, a full description of the legal and practical procedures for selection of Democratic Party officers, nominees, delegates, and representatives on all levels. Publications of these procedures should be done in such a fashion that all prospective and current members of the Democratic Party will be fully and adequately informed of the pertinent procedures in time to participate in each selection procedure, at all levels of the Democratic Party organization, and that all prospective candidates or applicants for any elected or appointed position within the State Democratic Party will have full and adequate opportunity to compete for office.
    1. Discrimination is Prohibited – Discrimination on any basis in the conduct of all Democratic Party affairs is strictly prohibited.
    2. Equal Division – Delegates elected by a Legislative District shall be equally divided, based on gender self-identification, as required by Charter VII.C.2.
    3. Quorum – A quorum for the 34th Legislative District Caucus shall match the quorum outlined within the Legislative District’s bylaws (20).  Once a quorum is established for the Legislative District Caucus, it may not be challenged until the election of delegates and alternates has been completed.
    4. Minority Reports – Minority reports may be presented, in addition to the majority report of any committee, if supported by the signatures of thirty-five percent (35%) of the members of that committee.
    5. No Unit Rule – The unit rule shall not be permitted at any meeting. A “unit rule” is any rule or practice whereby all members of a Party unit or delegation are required to cast their votes in accordance with the will of the majority.
    6. No Proxy Voting – Proxy voting shall not be allowed in the delegate selection process.
    7. No “Official” Delegate Slate – Any individual or group of Democrats may sponsor or endorse a slate of candidates for delegates at a meeting. However, no slate may, by virtue of such endorsement, receive a preferential place on a delegate selection ballot or be publicly identified on the ballot as the “official” Democratic Party organization slate, and all slates must meet identical qualification requirements for appearing on a ballot, at all levels of the delegate selection process.
    8. Forfeiture – Any duly elected delegate or alternate who ceases to be a resident of the 34th Legislative District shall automatically forfeit their seat and an alternate shall be seated in their place.
    9. Seating of Delegate by Certificate of Election – If the Chair of the 34th Legislative District  fails to submit the name of any delegate or alternate to the proper authority, the delegate or alternate may be seated at the state convention upon presentation of their certificate of election and proper identification.

    Section 2 – Rules for Delegate Election Meetings

    1. Application of Rules
      1. These rules for delegate election apply to the election of delegates at  the 34th Legislative District Caucus.
      2. In all instances that these Rules do not apply, Robert’s Rules of Order, newly revised, 12th edition, shall be used.
    2. Eligibility to Vote or Participate
      1. To vote in a meeting, the individual must have been a member of the 34th Legislative District Organization  for a minimum of 30 days prior to the meeting, or a PCO in the 34th Legislative District, and sign when they register that they identify as a Democrat.
      2. Those members who are not qualified to vote because of the recency of their membership shall be allowed to participate in the discussion of other business during the meeting, including but not limited to the discussion of Resolutions to be submitted to the State Convention.
    3. Procedures for the Nomination and Election of Delegates and Alternates
      1. All candidates for delegate must be resident in the 34th Legislative District.
      2. All candidates must be present — either virtually or physically — at the meeting where they are elected or provide a letter affirming their intention to serve and identifying themselves as a Democrat to the Legislative District Chair. Said letter or email shall be delivered or emailed to the caucus Chair by March 25th, 5pm, and shall be read at the meeting by the Chair and shall constitute a nomination.
    4. Voting Procedures
      1. All votes conducted by ballot must have means by which members participating virtually are able to cast said ballots.
      2. All ballots used in elections must:
        1. Have all positions filled, with no duplications, in order to be valid;
        2. Contain a difference of no more than one between male-identifying candidates and female-identifying candidates. Non-binary identifying candidates are eligible for election without limitation.
      3. Ballots cast virtually must be done through a double-blind system in order to protect the secrecy of the ballot. To accomplish this:
          1. Each ballot will be secured by a Unique Voting Identification Number;
          2. The individual providing the Unique Voting Identification Number to members attending virtually may not be permitted to view results;
          3. The ballot may not collect identifying information of the individual submitting the ballot;
          4. If requested by the voter, a member of the Credentials Committee may be allowed to communicate with the individual who issues the Unique Voting Identification Numbers;
          5. After results have been certified, the Credentials Committee will remove all Unique Voting Identification Numbers from the subsequent reports that are stored for audit purposes before making these reports accessible;
          6. All ballots and tabulation must adhere to the standards of balloting used for normal business of the WSDCC.
    5. District Authority
      1. The 34th Legislative District Caucus shall be called and Chaired by the Chair of the Democratic Legislative District Organization, as of March 26th, 2022. If no Chair is available, the 1st Vice Chair of the Organization may serve first. If no 1st Vice Chair is available to serve, the Chair of the County Democratic Organization may serve. If no County Chair is available, the Chair of the WSDCC, or their designee, will serve.
      2. The 34th Legislative District Caucus shall be held using the boundaries adopted by the Legislature in 2022 pursuant to RCW 44.05.

    Section 3 – Legislative District Caucuses

    1. Business of Caucus
      1. The principal business of the 34th Legislative District Caucus shall be the election of delegates and alternates to the 2022 Democratic State Convention. The elections shall be conducted pursuant to Section 2.
      2. The 34th Legislative District Caucus may also propose Resolutions to the 2022 Convention and may create a Legislative District Platform.
    2. Time, Place, Notice, and Participation
      1. The 34th Legislative District Caucus shall be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022, commencing at 10:00 AM. Notice pursuant to Section III.4 shall be given by the Legislative District Chair. Participation at the Legislative District Caucus is governed by Section 1.
      2. The 34th Legislative District Caucus will be held virtually.
        1. The 34th Legislative District Caucus will provide means in the Call to Meeting for a member to register in advance for virtual participation.
          1. Members must have indicated their intention to participate virtually no later than Monday, March 21st, 2022 at 8pm in order to receive a Unique Voting Identification Number.
          2. Members can be considered to have access to the meeting should they be able to hear the proceedings, cast ballots, and take any action permitted by Robert’s to interrupt a speaker who has the floor. See Robert’s 42:18.
          3. Members participating virtually do not need to be provided means with which to participate in debate in order to be considered as having access to the meeting.
          4. Members participating virtually may provide any nominations they wish to make in advance to the Legislative District Chair.
    3. Allocation of Delegates
      1. Pursuant to WSDCC rules, delegates and alternates to the State Convention shall be allocated among Legislative Districts in proportion to the votes cast for Joseph R. Biden and Jay Inslee in the 2020 general election. Allocation of delegates and alternates is provided in section VII.4.b of the Washington State Democrats Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plan.
    4. Credentials Committee
      1. The Legislative District Executive Board shall select a Legislative District Caucus Credentials Chair and Committee not less than thirty (30) days prior to the Caucus.
      2. The final Credentials report, issued by this Committee, shall be adopted prior to the conduct of any other official business on the date of the Legislative District Caucus.
      3. Individuals who arrive and sign in after the final credentials report is delivered may participate and vote, but their presence will not affect a quorum call.
      4. The Credentials Committee should include at least one member from the Legislative  District’s Affirmative Action Committee, if one has been appointed.
      5. If requested to do so, in accordance with the Rules governing challenges, the Credentials Committee may:
        1. Hear and resolve challenges to the eligibility of attendees to participate in the Legislative District Caucus or
        2. Provide other assistance to the WSDCC Rules Committee in connection with resolution of challenges.
    5. Plurality Vote, Equal Division
      1. A plurality of those present and voting shall be required to elect a delegate.
      2. The membership of the elected delegation shall differ by no more than one (1) between the number female-identifying and the number of male-identifying individuals, in both the delegate and alternate categories, to the extent practicable. Any number of non-binary identifying individuals may be elected so long as the male/female-identifying individuals differ by no more than one.
    6. Rules Committee
      1. The Legislative District organization, or its Executive Board, shall select a Legislative District Caucus Rules Chair and Committee not less than thirty (30) days prior to the Caucus.
      2. The Rules Committee shall meet in advance of the Legislative District Caucus and shall propose rules for the Caucus.
      3. The Rules Committee should have at least one (1) member from the Legislative District Affirmative Action Committee, if one has been appointed.
      4. The rules proposed by the Legislative District Rules Committee and adopted by the Legislative District Caucus may not conflict with the WSDCC rules.
    7. Delegate Election Report
      1. The Legislative District Chair shall ensure the transmission of the names, mailing addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, gender identification, and self-identified Affirmative Action categories of delegates and alternates elected at the Legislative District Caucus to the State Democratic Chair within five (5) days of their election.
      2. Delegates and Alternates shall be listed in the order in which they were elected.

     

    Executive Board Meeting

    January 19, 2022 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    January 19, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:03 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: 

    xCarla RogersxBunny Hatcher
    xSteven ButtsxColleen Hinton
    xAaron Garcia VirgenxSarah KochxSara Smith
    xRachel GlassChris PorterxGina Topp
    xLeah GriffinKaren RichterxJulie Whitaker
    xTrey LykinsxNick Bonazza
    xDeena LedgerxRoxanne Thatcher

    Welcome & Reminder of Social Contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • November’s minutes approved by voice vote
    • Agenda for tonight approved by voice vote

    Announcements & Upcoming Dates 

    • Still no chair for Fundraising & Events committee, will be asking people to do tasks for the upcoming fundraiser. 
    • Board is suffering resignations, including Dawn (community outreach; making connections to other orgs and internally within our organization) whose job has taken even more of her time; Norman is moving out of the district so will not continue as KCDCC rep primary position. Please help recruit!
    • Membership and hospitality also need support. 
    • SJE Chair – Jeff is stepping away due to family commitments 
    • Caucus and Elections chair Colleen likely lost to redistricting but will work on the upcoming caucus
    • Rachel is very comfortable reaching out to people to recruit if we have suggestions
    • Gina volunteered to chair the fundraising and events committee if we do the event in person.
    • We may convert some 34th committees to be ad-hoc/special committees, not standing committees, so not required to participate in board meetings. 

    Seattle Approves Campaign 

    • New campaign presentation by Bunny Hatcher 
    • Efrain Hudnell wants support for ‘Approval’ voting, which is different from single choice voting or ranked choice, you’d only vote ‘approve’ or ‘disapprove’ each candidate; Effrain stated there was concern in his district, but it’s not clear which district he represents.  He feels this is a simpler method.  It would only impact primaries and it would only affect Seattle.  Three cities including Fargo, North Dakota have moved to this method. Would potentially require a change in State Law.  Bunny will invite him to the March 16th board zoom meeting to provide more information https://seattleapproves.org/. 

    Announcements/Discussion: 

    • Redistricting continues, and there is a lawsuit in the works in the lower courts (United States District Court

    Western District of Washington, Case No.: 3:22-Cv-5035, Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief)

    • Please VOLUNTEER if you have an hour here or there. (Leah Griffin volunteered to do Twitter). 
    • Proposed Updates to our Bylaws and Endorsement rules will be in our next meeting. 
    • We will have an in-person Board meeting in February.
    • Caucus format can be online. Anticipating virtual caucus March 26th (State will provide instructions soon.) 
    • GREAT pre-meeting program in January. 

    2021 34th Dems Executive Board Retrospective
    Board members participated in a retrospective (good and to be improved) for 2021 year.

    NameThings that went well in 2021
    Colleen

    Membership meetings on Zoom, endorsement meeting, Burien Canvas events, holiday service project, caucus work, esp EELU, programming

    JulieZoom meetings and dealing with technology, programs
    NickPCO specific: Burien work, Minivan!, Voter turnout, training, 1 to 1 communication with PCOs
    Sara SZoom meetings (allowing people to talk and share)
    Sarah KEndorsement meeting
    TreyMade it easy to be a member, endorsement voting, enhanced the data collected on the membership form (demos), migration to NGP8
    LeahService Project, Pop Up Socials
    SteveMPCs, programs, videos of meetings (YouTube!)
    GinaVoting system, Burien, financial situation
    AaronPop Up Social, Service Project
    BunnyEndorsement process/mtg
    RachelBurien effort, endorsement meeting, service project

     

    NameThings that should be done differently in 2022
    ColleenMore volunteers in Burien, more volunteers in canvassing and campaigns, tap into people who are highly motivated to work in other districts or states (less democratic)
    JulieMake sure we cover all the business issues first (we are rushing through business)
    NickInvolve more PCOs in outreach activities, help with vote builder lists (data team), PCO to PCO contacts to build communities (get them working together and mentoring), more Voter Registration
    SaraMeetings are long
    Sarah KMore participation in canvassing
    TreyRecruit committee members
    LeahTrim down time spent on Resolutions (only ones with policy goals)
    SteveMore outreach (COVID), worked well with the 33rd, problems with the website, need to increase Twitter posts, get PCOs more involved with voter reg
    BunnyHigh membership: Call new members, contribute more earlier
    RachelLow attendance at some programs

     

    NameWhat one thing do you want to do differently in your role in 2022
    Colleen Recruit a replacement for role, Recruit committee members, help recruit other volunteers
    JulieBecome more capable with technology, patience during learning
    Nickabove
    Sara STalk more! Participate in a different way.
    Sarah KPCO – do more canvassing 
    Treywork on diversity data
    LeahPick up the flair in KCDCC report
    SteveDo more with neighboring districts (11th…), more Voter registration
    GinaConvert members (who just did endorsement) to participate
    AaronFigure out ways to connect work with School district to 34th
    BunnyGet involved earlier, being more active, get better at tech
    RachelFind ways to get people more excited and motivated about the midterms, more service projects! Maybe no programs

    GOOD OF THE ORDER

      • Carla asked for flexibility from the board to accommodate a work trip. The board agreed to a Feb 23rd board meeting instead of the 16th.

    8: 35 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair

    Monthly Meeting

    01-12-22 Membership Meeting Minutes

     400 300 34th Democrats

    Pre-Meeting Special Program 

    7:35 – Call to Order by Carla Rogers, Chair  

    Chair’s Remarks

    • MLK’s family requested that those wishing to celebration MLK Jr. instead exert influence on voting rights bills in Washington 
    • Call for participation in midterm elections

    Opening Ceremonies

    • Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass 
    • VIP Recognition: Special Guests and Elected Officials are invited to speak: 
      • King County Conservation District Vice Chair Chris Porter – be on the lookout for information on the upcoming King Conservation District election
      • Burien Mayor Sofia Aragon
      • Burien Deputy Mayor Kevin Schilling – the new council is working to improve the lives of all people in Burien 
      • King County Executive Dow Constantine – building on an already strong team, including funding for behavioral health so everyone in King County can thrive, key to homelessness and re-envisioning justice; putting in new supportive housing 
      • Joe McDermott – banned fireworks in unincorporated King County going forward; focusing on allocating funds in equity and social justice, and focusing on supporting White Center after a series of fires   

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

    • Agenda: Ann Martin motioned to approve as amended; Chris Porter seconded. Approved with voice vote. 
    • Minutes: Ann Martin motioned to approve; Karen Richter seconded. Approved with voice vote. 

    Budget and Membership Reports

    • Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on two month’s budget reports      
    • Membership Consideration: We endorsed the 2 Seattle School levies in November. The membership was asked to consider a donation to the Schools First Capital Levy campaign.
      • Chris Porter moved to donate $500, and Ann Martin seconded.  Chris spoke on behalf of his motion.  Unanimous voice vote in support of the motion.  Motion passed, the chair will make the donation.
    • Membership is at 148 as of today (including PCOs)  – please remember to renew: https://34dems.org/contribute/.  Questions? Contact membership@34dems.org for assistance.   
    • Change Makes $ense!: https://bit.ly/change-makes-sense 

    Candidate Spotlight

    3 Candidates spoke about their run for office.

    • Judge Kulijinder Dhillon – District Court Judge
    • Kirstin Haugen – King Conservation District #2
    • Tripp Williams – King Conservation District #2 
    • Colleen Hinton motioned to nominate Tripp Williams, Annie Philipps seconded, and Colleen spoke for her nomination. No one spoke in opposition.
    • Chris Porter nominated Kirstin Haugen and Roxanne Thayer seconded.  Chris Porter spoke for his nomination. No one spoke in opposition.
    • Members and PCOs used a zoom poll for the endorsement and Kirstin Haugen received the endorsement with 22 votes, versus 14 for Tripp Williams.

    Recognizing our Rock Star members and residents of the 34th District 

    • PCO of the Year:  Colleen Hinton 
    • Jackie Dupras Award for Member of the Year:  Carla Rogers 
    • Outstanding Committee/Caucus of the Year:  Environment, Energy and Land Use Caucus
    • Executive Board Members of the Year:  Rachel Glass & Bunny Hatcher 
    • Rising Star of the Year:  Sam Mendez 
    • Cherisse Luxa Award for Lifetime Achievement:  Annie Phillips 
    • Elected Official of the Year:  Executive Dow Constantine  

    Resolution Regarding Non-discriminatory, Medically Comprehensive Healthcare in WA State

    State Party Representative Election 

    • Bunny Hatcher nominated Roxanne Thayer, and Sarah Koch seconded.  Bunny spoke to her nomination, and yielded the rest of her time to Roxanne.  Roxanne spoke for her nomination. No one spoke in opposition.
    • Unanimous voice vote in favor of the election. 

    GOTO and Mark Your Calendar

      • Learning From the Past / Organizing for the Future offers strategies to resist against big fossil fuel and construction companies, especially in campaigns that displace communities of color. Thursday, January 13th at noon. Note: Film associated with workshop can be viewed beforehand.   
      • Organizing for Immigrant Justice by Centering Deportation Defense will explore how the institution of citizenship and the detention/deportation machine create racialized experiences, singling out immigrants. It will highlight resistance efforts and how we can create systemic change.  Thursday, January 13th at 5 p.m. 
      • Assault on Dr. King’s Vision: The Rise of the Far-Right and the Attack on Democracy will explore recent trends and threats posed by anti-democratic movements, unpack the rhetoric and discuss new ways to defend democracy.  Thursday, January 13th at 7 p.m.   
      • Lessons from Cuba – Reproductive Justice is a Human Right explores how reproductive rights have been key to advancing Cuban women’s rights. Friday, January 14th at 5 p.m.  
        Chicago Footwork: A Strategy for Education and Community Mental Health shares an approach to community healing developed by black youth in Chicago. Chicago Footwork uses dance, music and culture to foster black identity rooted in confidence and connection. Saturday, January 15th at 10 a.m.   
    • Many Fires This Time: We the 100 Million follows poet and activist, A Scribe Called Quess?, as he connects with activist poets and communities they represent, fighting for equity and justice, from Chicago, Kentucky and Oakland to his hometown of New Orleans.  Saturday, January 15th at noon. Note: Please watch the film associated with the workshop beforehand.  
    • Abolish Auto-Decline references state laws that allow the juvenile system to decline its jurisdiction over children charged with serious offenses, who are then tried in adult court. This webinar discusses strategies and solutions to ending Auto-Decline. Saturday, January 15th at 2 p.m.  

    Adjourned at 9:16 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

    Join the 34th Slack Channel

     400 300 34th Democrats

    In this day and age of too many emails and not enough in-person conversation, the 34th Dems have had great success using slack. Slack is aJoin Slack communications tool which you can use on your computer, your phone or both. You can engage with it on your terms. It is free to join. Inside slack you can have 1:1 conversations with 34th leadership, board members and any member. You can also join any ‘channel’ you would like to be a part of. We have general channels about political topics, banter (non-political topics), committee channels, caucus channels and more. There are over 100 members involved in our Slack community. Join today to start the conversation! 

    Join in just a few quick steps:

    1. Click Here to join the 34th Dems slack
    2. Be sure you remember the email you used to join and your password.
    3. Once you have joined, you are by default automatically joined to the “all 34th – banter” and “all-34th – business” channels.
    4. Locate the MORE menu on the left side panel. (See below image) Click the more menu.
    5. In the menu, click Channel Browser.
    6. When you open the Channel Browser, you will see a list of all the current channels. Some channels have a lock to new members – these are board business channels.
    7. Select the channels you want to join.
    8. Start the Conversation!

    The steps above are based on desktop/laptop. Phone steps are slightly different. The main difference is that you find the Channel Browser by clicking the + sign beside the Channels header in the app. From there it is generally the same.

    Slack