E-Board Meeting Minutes

    Meeting notes from 34th Democrats Executive Board monthly meetings

    10-16-19 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Dawn Rains, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Nick Bonazza, Ann Martin, Rachel Glass, Art Chippendale, Jesse Greene, Ben Reilly, Chris Porter

    7:13 Gina called the meeting to order.

    • Gina shared the updated calendar and walked through all the items. 
    • April 26 is the LD Caucus – all are expected to work that day.
    • Carla shared the plan for the Nov 13 Town Hall and asked everyone to share the details sent in email and on slack to their connections, while also sharing the event on Facebook. 
    • Holiday Party details were shared by Gina on behalf of Delancey. We will do the Navos giving tree at the November meeting, with the gift to be brought back by December. 
    • We need nominations for the awards we will give at the Holiday Party. 
    • The Code of Conduct is in its final stages. Code of Conduct will be shared with the board prior to the next board meeting. 
    • Bylaws final draft will also be shared at the November meeting. 
    • Ben shared that Lisa Herbold did not intend to buy a full page ad in the sample ballot. We will invoice for $200 with a $200 in-kind donation. The Burien candidates will also not be charged. We should have about $8000 to carry into next year. A large legal bill has been paid.
    • Membership dues income has been better than in past years. Gina mentioned that we could consider changes to the dues structure. We will push renewal of memberships at the Holiday Party.
    • Carla gave Communications committee updates – Lindsey Schober will start posting 2x weekly on Instagram and we will start to keep a content calendar for all channels. We need a plan for Twitter as we do not have anyone owning this. Chris Porter volunteered. Carla purchased a Tripod to be used for the live streams. We will change the position of the camera for the Facebook live stream going forward. 
    • Ann and Chris gave the state committee report. The caucus information will be coming out soon, won’t be as last minute as in the past. Next meeting is in January. 
    • Max Brown provided the King County committee report. A canvass will be held this weekend (see KCDCC website for details). Ballot Party is also planned for Saturday, Oct 19.  KCDCC Platform will be formed early next year. 
    • Outreach committee doesn’t have anything planned for the rest of the year. Sept 28 was the 2nd clean up Saturday of the year. 
    • Fundraising – Delancey is looking at locations and quotes for the 2020 annual summer fundraiser. A theme selection is in Slack and members should weigh in. 
    • PCOs will be called to get out this weekend for canvassing. Really need help in Burien. 
    • We are at 303 for membership. 103 PCOs.

    Gina announced that after the next Post-general meeting we will adjourn to Locol Barley and Vine. Whiskey West is too loud to have conversation.

    Caucus – April 26

    Rachel shared the report of the Caucus Committee. The committee convened for the first meeting on Monday, Oct 14. Rachel is creating a month by month plan. 

    Operations and Outreach are the two areas of planning focus.

    Operations  – set up, venue (Chief Sealth High School) 

    • Deadline for Insurance is early December.
    • State party has hired someone to help us get ready.
    • There is a grant available but we will not spend time on this due to the fact that we would likely not qualify. 
    • A walk thru of the venue will be held in March. 
    • Will need a lot of volunteers and technical support for the event.
    • Agenda for day-of event will be formed.
    • Gina will be the chair at caucus but we will need to be prepared for others to run for chair.
    • There will be concessions sold.
    • We will need printers to print out ballots and other documents. 
    • Signs for parking and directions to the venue will be needed. 
    • Sound Systems need to be arranged. 
    • Donation forms needed – we need to keep track of donations during the caucus.
    • Rachel will need to keep a budget for this event ($20k).

    Outreach

    • We need to do a lot of work to educate the public.
    • The state party has a webinar.
    • We will need to get the word out (use the libraries) to the public – programs will be held in multiple locations.
    • Need to contact affirmative action communities.
    • Outreach campaign work will start on January 3 (deadline for turning in signatures for national delegate).

    Next caucus planning meeting will be Nov 12 or 14, to be confirmed by Rachel. 

    9:06 Adjourn

    09/18/19 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Minutes

    09/18/19

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Nick Bonazza, Ann Martin, Rachel Glass, Art Chippendale, DeLancey Lane, Leah Griffin, Jesse Greene, Ben Reilly, Chris Porter

    7:05 Calendar through the end of 2020

    • Bylaws and Code of Conduct are not yet ready for review by the board. 

    7:07 Seattle Green Spaces Coalition

    Martin Westerman shared a presentation with the board about the recent history of Seattle’s greenspaces and the coalition’s intent to place a value on the city’s greenspaces (turning greenspace into an asset for the city). Marty is asking for our support in encouraging the funding of a consultant. Seattle would be the first to undertake this approach. The group asked for a resolution to be drafted for consideration.

    7:34 Resolution Process

    • Resolution submitted
    • If board approves to go to membership, LAC will do an analysis (interpretation) of the resolution to be shared at the membership meeting. 
    • LAC discusses resolution with the sponsor.
    • Analysis to be shared in a non-biased fashion to the membership. Factual, not opinion or conclusion.
    • Analysis will also be posted to web/social.

    Good feedback was collected after the first use of the process during the last meeting. Ann was concerned the analysis shared last month was too detailed. Ben suggested a high level summary. Carla suggested that Jordan consider doing a summary level read for the membership, and have the details on the tables at the meeting.

    7:48 Executive Board Meeting location needs to change for October and November. We will not have a board meeting in December. October meeting will be at Ann’s home and November will be at Carla’s house.

    7:50 Continue discussion of calendar through the end of 2020

    October program is climate change – Rachel is organizing. 

    November will be the Town Hall with Legislative Updates from Joe N, Eileen Cody and Joe F.

    December program will be the holiday party, organized by Jacqui.. No business. We need to form an ad hoc awards committee.

    January program will be bylaws and code of conduct. (Chris’ Racism program added at the end of the meeting.)

    February program will be Immigration.

    PCO Popcorn Party will be held in February.

    March 10 is the Primary and March 26 is the Caucus.  The March program will be about delegate selection process and expectations of being a delegate.

    We will continue to plan for a “Non-Profit Speed Dating” program. Those with connections to non-profits will own an invitation to participate as we get closer. Rachel, Gina and Carla will continue planning this and a date will be confirmed in the near future.

    8:07 Committee Reports

    • Treasurer/Membership – continued issues with members not getting into NGP. A solution has been defined for this going forward.
    • Settlement for Glen Morgan was submitted and there has been no response yet..
    • Fundraising – DeLancey shared planning options. The group approved July 25 as the date of the 2020 fundraiser, before the local primary. Theme ideas will be debated in Slack.
    • PCO – Nick shared that we have appointed 21 PCOs since January. Nick shared some of his goals for the coming year including PCO mentors. We will hold a PCO recruiting event in February. 
    • Outreach – Karen and Steve talked about their last event of the year coming up on the 28th (adopt-a-street). Voter registration goal was met this year! 
    • Communications – Carla proposed that we buy a tripod for use at the meetings to live stream on Facebook. Group approved $75 for the tripod. Councilmember Bagshaw and candidate Pugel responded to the endorsement for the Tree Protection Ordinance. Lindsey Schomer will join the Comms Committee to support Instagram.
    • Caucus – Rachel and DeLancey will tour 3 venues for the Caucus. Volunteers are coming forward. 
    • State Committee – Chris and Ann are going to Yakima for the state party meeting next weekend. Code of Conduct will be decided. 
    • King County Dems – No report.
    • Legislative Action – Gina and Jordan have been working on a bill for the State Party. Change the current law to have all PCO candidates to be on the ballot whether they are opposed or not. Discussion was held. This will be a cost-focused issue. 

    8:42 Sample Ballot

    The group discussed having a sample ballot to distribute at the October meeting. Group agreed that we do want to pursue this and will confirm goals/plans outside the meeting. 

    8:56 Good of the Order

    Reminder that October Executive Board meeting will be held at Ann’s house. 

    Chris brought up the topic of racism and would like to have a program. Chris will work on a program about race for January.

    Art mentioned that Friday is the kick off of Strike for Climate.

    Jesse and Nick will bring forward a plan for the PCO recruitment party.

    9:10 Adjourn

    08/21/19 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Minutes

    08/21/19

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Steve Butts, Ted Barker, Gina Topp, Jesse Greene, Nick Bonazza, Ann Martin, Rachel Glass

    7:07 Gina called the meeting to order. 

    Glen Morgan Lawsuit

    Gina shared the Possinger Law Group memo regarding the State of Washington ex rel. Morgan v. 24th Legislative District Democrats. This memo is a settlement offer in the lawsuit. 

    The group discussed the offer as communicated in the letter. 

    Our attorney Laura Ewan shared options with the board and answered questions.

    The board agreed to the following response to be provided by Gina to our attorney.

    • No admission of violation
    • Public Disclosure Commission Training
    • Civil Penalty Payment of $3000
    • Suspension of $1500
    • 34th will pay no attorney’s fees
    • Probation to the end of the current board term, November 30, 2020

    8:00 Committee Reports

    • Treasurer’s Report – Ben Reilly presented the treasurer’s report. 
    • September Program – Sofia Aragon is organizing the program
      • Homelessness program, 2 speakers
      • Seattle School District candidates speak and potential endorsements
      • Highline School District School Board 
    • State Committee
      • State committee meeting is end of September and will be taking up the code of conduct
    • Communications
      • Sponsorship of Joe Nguyen’s Town Hall
        • Carla will get more details about the nature of our involvement. Who’s paying, nature of sponsorship – official state event or a Joe campaign event
      • Communications Committee is growing. 3 interested members have connected and we are working out how they can support the committee. 
      • Tai Yang will be working as Technology Special Projects Lead going forward and will be first working on the Donations page.
    • Outreach – Steve and Karen gave updates. 
      • 2 events upcoming
      • Goal is 175 registered voters. Need 20 more to make the goal. 
    • LAC
      • Jordan has been working on the Code of Conduct with Chris. 
    • PCO
      • Nick submitted a written report prior to the meeting. 
      • Nick is asking our electeds to provide names of potential PCOs. 
      • Also in communication with One America to help find volunteers or PCOs.
      • With the September meeting we will have 100 PCOs (207)
    • Bylaws 
      • Art Chippendale will be nominated at the next meeting to be the chair of the Bylaws committee. Jordan, Chris and others expressed interest in being on the committee.
    • Hospitality
      • Jesse stated he talked 5 folks (visitors) who had not signed in at the last meeting. 
    • Caucus
      • Sunday, April 26 is the Legislative District Caucus
      • Locations have been contacted
    • Events
      • Gina received and email about the picnic. The group agreed that we will not have a picnic this year due to lack of time for planning and other initiatives that are more important. 
      • Gina shared and email from Delancey regarding event planning questions. Comments should go into Slack.

    8:53 Resolution in Support of Seattle Urban Forestry Commission’s Draft Tree and Urban Forest Protection Ordinance

    • Ann Martin presented a resolution to consider. Discussion was held about the resolution. 
    • There was a motion and a second to send the resolution to the membership for consideration with no recommendation.
    • Discussion of the resolution process was held. 
    • The motion passed unanimously.

    9:07 Good of the Order

    Brunch Fundraiser for Lisa Herbold, 11-12:30 Sept 7 at the Public House 

    September agenda will include a proposal for how to spend funds in the budget for campaign contributions.

    Les shared his experience canvassing. Lesson – be careful canvassing!

    WSDC Picnic is Aug 22 (3-7pm) at Ann’s home. 

    9:15 Adjourn

    August 8, 2019 Special Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Minutes

    08/01/19

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Steve Butts, Chris Porter, Ted Barker, David Ginsburg (left early), Gina Topp

    7:05 Gina started the meeting with an exercise for the group.

    The group shared their goals for this meeting. Also each member provided their goals for the year.

    Goals for the rest of the year:

    Improved Resolution Process
    Bylaws Updated
    Glen Morgan matter settled
    Finalize Code of Conduct
    Plan for Caucus Cycle (financial and logistical)
    Begin Monthly Socials (like debate parties) to help us expand membership
    Increase PCOs in preparation for next year
    GOTV for this election cycle
    Increase members who are working with committees to help chairs accomplish all their goals/responsibilities

    7:13 Issues unresolved from June Endorsement Meeting

    Response to Lou Frillmans Letter
    Reaction or response to David and Lou’s letters to Westside Herald
    Response to Marcee Stone-Vecich’s letter
    The component of our resolution regarding David and Lou’s unrepaired relationship not being fulfilled

    Board agreed to remove the 4th item.

    Members of the board asked David Ginsberg to leave the meeting for the remainder of the discussion. David departed.

    Lou’s Letter to the Board

    Carla read Lou’s letter to the board
    Board stands firm in our decision to make the 34th a safe place, and it will not revisit the consequences from our July executive board meeting.
    Reviewed the area of the Code of Conduct which were broken by Lou’s behavior
    Must separate the incidents: letter in Westside vs. board meeting incident
    It was resolved that Gina will respond to Lou’s email.

    Marcee’s Letter to the Board

    Carla read Marcee’s letter to the Board
    Chris shared Marcee’s main concern regarding David and Marcee’s relationship
    Les stated that our job is to elect democrats, not to govern or repair relationships between members
    Marcee needs to decide if she is going to bring Code of Conduct violations against David
    It was resolved that Gina will respond to Marcee’s email

    David and Lou’s letter to Westside Seattle

    Carla read both David’s and Lou’s Westside Seattle letters
    Beyond an intrapersonal fight; letters were in the public domain
    Chris wants the chair to regain control of being the voice for the organization
    Jordan read a written statement referencing David’s code of conduct violations
    Jesse shared his position regarding the code of conduct violation
    Ben shared that he felt that both letters violate the code of conduct
    Les provided his take on the letters
    Carla shared that Lou had already been punished and didn’t believe we should add another set of consequences for his letter to the paper. David however, should be considered differently as he is a chair/executive board member, higher standard of behavior.
    Jesse wants to make sure that whatever we decide, we speak as a board and back Gina as chair 100%.
    Gina stated that David has been a significant help to her during the transition.
    Rachel is concerned about how this reflects on the board and how David remaining on the board might have adverse effects.
    Dawn feels a lack of trust in David, given the events and how they transpired.
    Several members of the board shared that they had a trust issue with David and some felt uncomfortable working with him.
    Chris suggested that the next chair’s message include clarification that the chair is the only person able to speak for the board.
    Karen and Ted stated the need to not make this a further public issue that makes the 34th look badly.

    After everyone had time to state their position on the matter, Gina made a suggestion for how to move forward:

    Gina will include mention of the chair having the voice of the 34th in the next Chair’s message, calling out the Bylaw which speaks to that point
    Gina will find someone to take over as co-chair of the Bylaws committee so that the work on bylaws can be voted on and finalized by the end of the year.
    David will be suspended from attending events and activities of the 34th District Democrats until the November 2019 Election. This will allow for the Executive Board to do some work to try and repair working relationships.
    Gina is going to have conversations with board members who have concerns about David’s behavior
    Gina to speak with David about his behavior and how members of the board feel about working with him.

    Board voted 10-2 to move forward with the above proposal.

    Gina mentioned that Glen Morgan has offered a settlement in the lawsuit. This will be discussed in full at the August board meeting.

    Chris shared the Affirmative Action Resolution regarding Referendum 88. Members approved the motion to take the resolution to the membership in the August meeting, as written.

    9:20 Adjourned

    07-17-19 Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Minutes

    7/17/19

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Ann Martin, Marcee Stone-Vecich, Nick Bonazza, Steve Butts, Leah Griffin, Chris Porter

    7:10 Updates from Committees

    • Sofia opened the meeting (Gina had a work emergency). 
    • All discussion of the endorsement meeting was tabled until the August meeting. 
    • Good turn out for the Burien Parade. 

    Steve gave an update from the Outreach Committee. Discussed past events and results and those upcoming. Need people to walk in the upcoming parades. Need to publish events to the membership via email in the future. 

    Nick Bonazza gave an update from the PCO Committee. Training ended but new PCOs will be trained individually.  Canvass events will be held on the 20th and 21st in WS and in Burien. UCFW will be phone banking on August 29th.

    Ann mentioned that she and Chris Porter are  working on the state Code of Conduct. 

    Chris spoke about the 34th Code of Conduct activities upcoming. The state is talking about having a requirement to have each LD have its own Code of Conduct or they will inherit the state’s version. The adoption of a Code of Conduct for the state will be done at the September meeting. Chris is recruiting for a couple additional members of the Code of Conduct meeting. Proposal is to present a draft to the Board in August and then a final draft to the membership in October. We will need to have a draft published for review by Sept 29th.

    The Leadership Development Committee report was provided by Les Treal. Les has talked to 3 possible recruits.

    Dawn Rains asked that everyone share the debate parties on social media (share the events on our Facebook page).  

    Carla Rogers shared an update from the Communications Committee. She is hoping to recruit Maggie who will be responsible for the monthly communications plan. This will drive our communications across the web and social media.

    Rachel will chair the August meeting and provide the program. Need to have Allan Munro sit at the front table for support since Gina and Sofia will be out. 

    A discussion about the use of our membership email was held. The group agreed that it would be prudent to have a couple people with access to the NGP email system. 

    August Program (Gina will be absent from the August meeting)

    Rachel Glass is in charge of the program. We need details for the website and facebook. 

    Will need to determine who will handle the agenda, call and newsletter for August. 

    8:00 Good of the order

    Delridge Day is Aug 10, we will have a booth. 

    Derek Birnie passed away this morning. 

    ICE Detention Center (immigrant was apprehended) story was shared by Marcee. This subject opened up conversation about possible board initiatives and programming around immigration, or other hot topics for the district. We would like to have future programming linked to some of the hot topics. Ben suggested that we might consider doing a resolution about detention centers.

    Sofia asked if there was a follow up from the Green New Deal. The chair should send an email with our  resolution to our electeds: Lorena G, Lisa H, Joe N, Eileen, Joe M and Dow to suggest that it be considered.

    District 1 organization has asked Chris to emcee 2 September debates for the primary winners. (Sept 14 at Duwamish Long House and Sept 28 at High Point Neighborhood House.)

    8:30 Adjourned

    June Executive Board Meeting – 6/19/19

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    6/19/19 

    Attendees: Gina Topp, Carla Rogers, Ted Barker, Steve Butts, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Nick Bonazza, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Rachel Glass, Leah Griffin, Jordan Crawley, Chris Porter, Ann Martin, Jimmy Haun, David Ginsberg, Marcee Stone-Vecich, Sophia Aragon, Raschelle Frets, Max Vecich, Phil Tavel, DeLancey Lane, Sam Widdlesbach (Herbolt campaign)

    7:00 Call to Order

    Rules of Discussion

    Gina started the meeting with an overview of the issues we have been having over the past few weeks within the Board. (Resolutions, Member Lists, endorsement meeting)

    • Need to update our bylaws regarding the sharing of membership list. 
    • Need more structure about the resolution process and how we propose resolutions to the members.
    • Review the code of conduct. 

    Gina distributed the WSDCC Code of Conduct, the KCDCC Code of Conduct and our 34th Dems Code of Conduct. 

    Everyone introduced themselves and gave summary thoughts on their experience at the Endorsement meeting on June 12. 

    7:49 Endorsement meeting follow-up

     Gina shared the factual details of the event happenings.

    • Early in the meeting during the potluck, David Ginsberg and Lou Frillman had a discussion about the candidates. 
    • Inappropriate language was used by Lou Frillman.
    • Safe Seattle, candidates Lisa Herbold and Phil Tavel were mentioned.
    • The word “Nazi” was used.
    • Unclear as to the purpose of the discussion.
    • Steven Jamison shared inappropriate words with Lou and dumped water on his head. Additional words were had and both exited the Hall to further their exchange.
    • Steven left the meeting. 
    • Lou spoke with Lorena Gonzalez and made her feel uncomfortable. 
    • Steven apologized to Gina and the 34th and has issued an apology statement to the 34th. 
    • Gina agrees that the behavior was unquestionably unacceptable. 

    Suggestion was made to read Steve, Lou and David’s statements. 

    Fact Finding options

    • Roberts Rules
    • King County Code
    • Alternative 
    1. Act on the facts that we know today (including the letters submitted by 3 parties involved)
    2. Impart an Investigation into the matter (leveraging any of the three options)

    Discussion of the options followed.

    18 members present (including only executive board members)

    All 18 members voted for option 1. 

    1. Use only Gina’s account of the stated facts.
    2. Allow for 3 letters to be read with no discussion. 
    3. Allow for 3 letters to be read with discussion. 

    Discussion of the 3 options followed.

    Option 1 carried the majority.

    Consequences Phase

    Gina re-read her facts.

    Marcee Stone-Vecich made statements to the board that is was taking a convenient route for resolution and stated that additional information was missing from the account of facts. 

    The members voted to take a 5 minute break to allow Marcee to remind Gina of one of the occurrences. 

    An additional Code of Conduct violation was filed during the break by Marcee Stone-Vecich. 

    Discussion about the additional Code of Conduct violation ensued. Jesse made a motion which was seconded to table the new violation to a future meeting. 

    1. Address the new Code of Conduct violation to be tabled.
    2. Address the new Code of Conduct violation tonight.

    Discussion was tabled. Jesse made a further motion to investigate this new issue within one week outside of an in-person meeting. 

    Gina mentioned that the bylaws should address board communication outside of meetings. 

    Marcee withdrew her Code of Conduct violation and exited the meeting. 

    The motion passed to investigate the new issue within one week. 

    The board discussed options for an investigation.

    Ben motioned that Gina completes and summarizes the investigation and presents findings to the board. Motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

    Board discussed possible options, including: 

    1. Request for a formal, public statement or apology from each participant.
    2. Formal apology to each other.
    3. Suspension of member’s ability to attend meetings and membership for a period.
    4. Published statements
    5. Censure of one or both members. (⅔ of membership)
    6. Lacking authority, make a declaration of censure without names

    Ann made a motion to consider the following action: (seconded by Les)

    • Request a public apology from Lou Frillman to Steven Jamison and 34th District Democrats
    • Request a public apology from Steven Jamison and the 34th District Democrats and suspension for 2 months 

    Jesse made an amendment to the motion (seconded by Carla)

    • Board will create a resolution to condemn the actions by the two parties (no names to be used)
    • Suspend Steven from (4 upcoming) meetings until after the general election.
    • Suspend Lou from the July and August meetings of the 34th.
    • Request that the candidates make a statement about the language used (degrading hate speech) and a public support of the 34th’s Code of Conduct.

    Discussion was held on the amendment.

    The amendment passed. 

    Les made an amendment to add resolutions of censure for both Lou and Steven. 

    Discussion was held on the amendment.

    Motion failed by majority. 

    The motion passes by majority. 

    10:03 Announcements

    School Board Endorsements will be done in July

    Bylaws Committee was formed.

    Resolutions Committee will be formed. 

    Chris Porter will lead a task force on the Code of Conduct 

    Additional business was tabled until the next meeting, due to time. 

    Les presented a resolution for consideration by the board in support of the Green New Deal. 

    A motion was made to present the resolution to the membership at the July meeting, once edits are made. The final resolution will be shared on Slack for a board vote, prior to the meeting. 

    Meeting was adjourned

    Special Meeting of the Executive Board – 6/24/19

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Notes Minutes

    6/24/19

    Attendees: Gina Topp, Carla Rogers, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Rachel Glass, Jordan Crawley, Ann Martin, David Ginsberg, Marcee Stone-Vecich, Nick Bonazza, Lou Frillman via phone, Chris Porter

    7:35 Call to Order

    Gina started the meeting requesting that everyone state their goals for the current meeting. 

    7:42 Outstanding Items

    1. Marcee Stone-Vecich’s code of conduct violation 
    2. Discuss the suspensions levels (2-4)
    3. Who initiated the behavior
    4. Jordan’s Draft Resolution “Resolution Rejecting Hate Speech”
    5. Social Media/Communication around the events and our response

    7:46 Code of Conduct Violation

    David apologized to Marcee and the executive board made the commitment  to review and revise the code of conduct.

    Chris will lead a task force for the Code of Conduct (Jordan, Marcee will be on the committee).

    7:48 Discussion of suspensions

    • Rachel expressed concern about the differing consequences. Feels they should be the same.
    • Jesse explained the thought behind his amendment which led to the judgements.
      • Both broke the code of conduct.
      • One person also made a physical action.
    • Additional members shared their points of view

    Gina motioned that we decide whether to review the months of suspension. Motioned was seconded. It was decided that we would not reopen the suspension levels. 

    Gina will also open the meetings by pointing out the code of conduct and introducing the sergeant of arms (Les). 

    8:29 Discussion around who initiated the altercation. 

    Lou believes that the initiation of the altercation needs to be known. 

    NOTE: Code of Conduct violation doesn’t have to come from one of the people involved. 

    David and Lou both gave statements on the initiation of the events. 

    A suggestion was made to ask both parties to meet to discuss the event and apologize. 

    8:45 Resolution Rejecting Hate Speech

    Jordan Crawley wrote the resolution. 

    • Members discussed their input on the resolution.
    • Marcee wants more mention of “safe space”.
    • Review WA State language around gender inequality and add language to our resolution
    • Recognizing that we may have different political beliefs in the resolution
    • Jordan and Chris will finalize and put in Slack 

    8:55 Social Media Communication about the event

    Board members should not speak on behalf of the 34th. Only Gina as Chair can do that. 

    May 15, 2019 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    April 17, 2019

    Attendees: Gina Topp, Carla Rogers, Ted Barker, Sophia Aragon, Steve Butts, Karen Richter, Les Treall, Nick Bonazza, Max Brown, Ben Reilly, Dawn Rains, Rachel Glass, Leah Griffin, Jacqui, Jordan Crawley, Chris Porter

    7:06 Call to Order

    7:06 Communications update

    Carla Rogers presented a report from the communications committee.

    • Website and FB have tickets for sale for the Fundraiser on June 1
      • Volunteer Tickets page/URL
    • Survey responses netted several actionable items including:
      • Two of the primary purposes for the web is for calendar items and connecting with board members
      • More calendar items : show other org meeting schedules
      • More info on committees and how to get involved
      • wanting the agenda of the monthly meetings posted ahead of time,
      • Suggestion to email the newsletter to membership
      • Enhanced Calendar in the NL
      • More of a voice for the committees (outside of meetings)
      • More social posts, Facebook is most used.
    • Steve is going to be starting to work on the sample ballot, which is due to be distributed at the July meeting (July 10).
      • Very tight turn around
      • LAC to solicit candidates for ad sales after Gina’s email
      • Need plea to candidates from Gina by June 19 (excom meeting)
    • New web homepage update (Tai) – new look and feel
      • Please email any feedback or place in the slack channel (exec comm)
    • May 30 deadline for content for the NL

    7:16 Introductions for new Committee Chair – Leah Griffin, KC Executive Board Member

    7:18 Budget Discussion

    • Ben Reilly presented the latest revision to the budget. $10K in the budget for the Primary activities.. $30K projected carry over to next year
    • Do we want more in the budget for election contributions
    • Do we want to set this aside more for caucus expenses
    • Reduce cost of Annual Fundraiser by $500 and increase income by $500
    • A motion was made to move $1K additional to candidate contributions.
    • Motion was seconded and was approved.
    • The budget will be presented to the membership in June, for vote.

    7:33 Events Report and Annual Fundraiser Planning

    Jacqui presented the events report.

    • Phone banking to those who have not rsvp’d/bought tickets will be held Thursday 5/16 6-8pm
    • Silent and Live Auctions
    • Procurement deadline is the week before the event (June 1)
    • Volunteer Tickets are needed but we will just use the NGP link to sell those tickets.
    • Volunteers are needed and flowers for the event are needed for table decorations
    • Costs include linens, printing and food – approximately $5500, based on 75 people attending.

    7:49 PCO Report

    Nick Bonazza presented the PCO report.

    • Trainings are scheduled across the region in May/June.
    • Nick continues Outreach to recruit more PCOs

    7:59 Endorsements

    Gina led a discussion on the endorsement process for the June meeting.

    • No slate will be presented by the 34th Exec Board
    • 60% or more gets the endorsement
    • Runoffs of top two
    • If runoff doesn’t work, then a dual endorsement will be possible.
    • Candidates need to be coordinated (against the wall near the bar)
    • Nominations begin from the floor
    • Candidates should know about the event
    • Ballots are needed, Steve prints. They are numbered with the sign in process.
    • Ann Martin will be the tally chair, Ted would be the alternate tally chair
    • Candidates are allowed to observe the tally
    • Rules for who is eligible to vote need to be sent to the campaigns.
    • Renewing members will be sent to Ben.
    • Gina will ask Steve to be time keeper and Ann to handle the tally..

    8:21 State Committee Report

    Chris Porter presented the State Committee report.

    • Very heated discussion on the caucus/primary decision.
    • Staff members have left the office over the decision and how it was handled/how members behaved.
    • Affirmative Action plan was generally accepted by the DNC.
    • Constituency caucuses are creating a proposal to be in alliance with the state party.
    • Outreach is a focus. LDs will need to provide a formal account of what they are doing in outreach.
    • September is the next meeting
    • LD Caucus is in March (3 months prior plan should be set.), Primary is March 10.
    • Planning for the Primary season will start after the Annual Fundraiser.

    8:33 King County Committee Report

    Leah Griffin presented the report.

    • Will continue saying the pledge of allegiance.
    • Passed a budget.
      • Max have insight on the budget structure, which has changed.
    • Ted shared that a motion was made to raise limit of campaign contributions to 25% of the budget (from 10%)


    Karen shared the Outreach Committee Report

    • Outreach committee is doing an Adopt-a-Street event this weekend.
    • There will be an event the day of the Annual Fundraiser as well
    • All upcoming events are on the calendar.

    Jordan presented the LAC Report

    • The candidate events are complete for this cycle.
    • Jordan is now taking on legislation as a focus.

    Les presented the Leadership Development Report

    • Les is beginning his work to recruit future board members and leaders for the 34th.
    • Asked that committee chairs look within their committees for potential leaders and forward them to him for follow up.

    Chris mentioned that we should include the June 30 Pride Parade on the website. Max will get details to Carla to post on the site and on social.

    8:50 Resolutions

    • Gina shared that there were questions from the membership as to how we deal with Resolutions presented to us. A discussion was held on how we can process resolutions in the future.

    9:03 Good of the Order

    • Sophia has requested the membership list for use by her campaign.
    • Chris encouraged attendance of the Bee Festival this weekend.

    April 17, 2019 Board Meeting

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Notes for Minutes

    Attendees: Gina, Ann, Les, Ben, Dawn, Jordan, Rachel, Carla, Karen

    April 17, 2019

    7:00 Call to Order

    7:01 Primary Decision by the WA State Democratic Party

    While members arrived to the meeting, those present discussed the choice by the WA State democrats to move to a Primary in 2020. Ann will share a state committee report in the next newsletter.

    7:12 LAC Report

    Jordan shared plans for the April 23rd D1 Candidate Debate were shared. There will be a planning meeting for the Debate Thursday 4/18 at 7 at Uptown Espresso on Delridge. Rebuttal format was agreed upon.

    The Burien Candidate Forum will occur during our May membership meeting. There are 2-3 candidates for each of 3 position – 8 total. The group decided that we should organize it by position. Forum to begin at 7:30.

    7:40 Fracking Resolution

    Resolution was brought by a precinct committee member. This was shared by Les Treall. A speaker 350.org could be included to answer questions. The board can make a recommendation or just bring it to the floor at the membership meeting. The state discussed but postponed the vote on a similar resolution (initiated by the 32nd) with the same purpose. This resolution has the same content as the state resolution which passed. The group voted to bring it to the meeting for discussion.

    7:55 Treasurer’s Report

    24 new members were added at the forum. 211 is new total. A new list of not-renewed-yet members will be distributed for calls to be made to encourage renewal. Gina will also remind non-members that they may not vote on endorsements unless they rejoin by May 8. This will also be posted on Facebook.

    Budget for 2019 was shared last month, updates have been made. New budget will be shared in the next Exec Board meeting and then we will vote at the July meeting.

    8:01 Glen Morgan Lawsuit Updates

    The PDC is arbitrating the Glen Morgan lawsuit at this point. We will need to spend on legal fees for this so that will be updated in the budget.

    8:05 Membership Discussion

    A request was made that a name tag be made for all new and renewing members and made available at the first general meeting.. Ben to send a list to Steve Butts prior to the meeting each month.

    8:08 PCO Committee

    PCO meetings have been held on Vashon and in Burien. Nick has scheduled trainings for all areas. These will be placed on the calendar.

    8:09 Outreach Committee

    Annie Phillips registered 25 votes in one hour at this event. Cambodia Fest is the next event. 10-5, 4/27. Need additional participation in the parades.

    8:13 Hospitality Committee

    The new visitors list will be used for follow up calls. Jesse needs help at the next 2 meetings welcoming at the meetings. New PCO Jeff will be asked to do this.

    8:15 Communications

    Committee is meeting w/o April 29 to get additional updates moving. Still need committee descriptions for Finance and Bylaws committees for the website.

    8:16 Events

    Annual Fundraiser meeting will be held this Saturday at 10am at Cupcake Royale. Procurement wishlists will be shared but we will also call past donors.

    8:18 Bylaws

    New draft bylaws are being prepared and will be shared prior to our board meeting so that the board can review..

    8:21 Good of the Order

    • Ben (membership) will have a table at the Debate
    • Dawn suggested that we do a watch party for the Presidential Debates on June 26-27, July 30-31. Dawn will pursue venues and we will post on local and social media.
    • Dow is hosting an event on May 17 and 34th members are able to attend at a reduced cost of $50. The regular price of the luncheon is a $125 donation.

    8:33 Adjourn

    March 20, 2019 Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    Board Meeting Minutes

    Attendees: Gina, Ann, David, Max, Steve, Nick, Les, Sofia, Ben, Dawn, Jordan, Rachel, Jesse, Carla

    March 20, 2019

    PDF: 03-20-19 Board Meeting Minutes

    7:05 Call to Order

    7:06 Treasurer’s Report was presented by Ben Reilly. Estimated 150 members ytd. Draft Budget  for 2019 was shared. This was prepared by Dawn Rains and Ben Reilly. Various additions/changes were discussed. KCDCC will not be asking for a donation this year. Should set aside monies for the caucus ($7-10K). Young Dems will also not be asking for a donation. Will need to increase PCO budget to $500. Will also need a budget for the candidate ballot but we will also have income for this which should offset the cost ($2500). A new version of the budget will be posted in Slack for approval.

    7:24 Sofia provided a report from the January General Meeting.

    • Diversity/Inclusion, Education and Homelessness were the top issues
    • Top Priorities for the 34th – Homelessness, Climate, Economic Justice
    • A discussion about new volunteers was had. A communication plan was agreed to – Chair’s are required to contact all volunteers.
    • Need a Welcome Guest sign in sheet at the meetings. Jesse will take on converting guests to members.
    • Need to have discussion time at each meeting.

    7:47 Dow Constantine visit

    • Introductions
    • King County works in parallel with the 34th. Goal it to create a welcoming community where everyone is free to thrive.
    • Dow spoke about housing insecurity/homelessness, Best Start program, health care, transportation and environmental concerns.
    • A Q&A session resumed.
    • Dow announced he will very likely be a candidate for governor.  

    8:35 General Calendar

    Gina shared an activities calendar for the year. Carla will post items to the website calendar and begin posting on social media.

    8:38 Legislative Action Committee

    Jordan shared his vision for the LAC. He also shared his proposal for candidate forums and debates for both D1 and Burien City Council.  His suggestion is to host a forum at our regular meeting and a debate format in a separate meeting/venue approximately 2 weeks later. This will allow for an incremental opportunity to see the candidates discuss the issues. It was decided that we will proceed with the Forum + Debate (2 sessions). April 23 will be the Debate with the Forum held during our April 10 regular meeting at Fauntleroy Hall. Jordan also shared a survey he wanted to send to membership to gain input on the topics to be covered. Due to time constraints, the survey will be shared via Slack for input.  

    8:49 April Program

    D1 Candidate forum!

    8:50 The Communications Committee report was shared by Carla. Facebook engagement, LIKED pages and interaction are all up in the past month. Communications survey will be sent one more time and then closed.

    8:52 PCO Committee

    Nick explained that the PCO committee met last weekend. Has been contacting past/former PCOs. March 30 PCO meeting, and March 31 in Burien. Continued engagement for the PCOs. Planning an engagement event for the summer.

    8:57 Events/Fundraising Committee

    Jacqui, Delancey and Gina are holding Saturday planning meetings at 10am at Cupcake Royale each week. Anyone can join! The Earth Day event and June fundraiser are their focus and plans will be announced asap.

    9:03 Outreach Committee

    Steve reported that the committee is solidifying calendar of events for the year.

    9:07 Adjourn