Meeting Minutes Archive

    Archived notes from our business meetings, WSDCC meetings, KCDCC meetings and our newsletters.

    April 2018 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats

    E-Board Meeting

    4/18/18

    Puget Ridge Common House

    Meeting called to order at 7:05 by Chair David Ginsberg

     

    Committee Reports:

     

    King County — Les reported that there was a resolution to allow the board to elect a new chair

    without PCO input, thereby preventing the need for an expensive election for an organization

    that is essentially bankrupt. According to their bylaws, a vice chair cannot assume the chair.

    Outreach – Karen and Steve report that the Cambodian New Year’s is the 28th.

    Green Life Section at Summerfest will cost $175. Waiting for their Board to approve the application.

    June will see Burien Pride on the 2nd.

    Strawberry Festival, Morgan Junction event and the State Convention are all on the same day. Nick will be working Vashon again this year.

    Events – Hoping for a big turnout at the Duwamish Alive Pigeon Point Earth Day Clean Up.

    Planning is getting underway for the Garden Party.

     

    Finance – Katie met with Gina to discuss how reporting could be simplified and how to limit our financial exposure.

    What info do we wish we had?

    ​​Performance vs. Budget

    ​​Performance vs. Long Term Goal – 2020 Caucus

    ​​Relative Reliability of sources of income.

    ​​Fundraising efficiency

    ​​Cost per meeting at the Hall

    ​​Cost per member.

    ​​How many days (less caucuses expenses) of operating expenses are on hand?

     

     

    7:33 Sister District Discussion –

     

    ​Dow will be getting involved.

    ​31st, 8th, and 47th are under consideration.

    ​

    ​Decision made on the 47th.

     

     

    7:45 KCDCC Dues are $800

     

    ​​Les made a motion to pay which was seconded and passed.

    ​​Gina will be instructed to pay.

     

     

    8:05 Resolution –

    ​​

    ​​Martha Koester has presented a resolution to open VoteBuilder to all Dem candidates.

    There is no litmus test in the resolution. Current rules state that the candidate must be endorsed before access is granted. MSP to send back to Martha to reword.

    Second resolution presented to urge Gov. Inslee to not send troops to help the Border Patrol. Resolution fails to get the votes to present to the membership.

     

    8:20 Program –

    ​​May – Senate Candidates

    ​​June – Primary Endorsements

    ​​July – Primary Endorsements

    ​​August – Possibly no meeting? If there is one, Michael Taylor-Judd is willing to chair.

     

     

     

    8:31 Good of the Order –

     

    Initiative 1631 dealing with carbon emissions will be on the agenda for the next meeting.

    Next E-Board meeting to be at Katie’s house. Address to follow.

    8:53 Adjourned.

    April 2018 Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats

    Monthly Membership Meeting

    4/11/18

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

    Meeting called to order at 7:01 by Chair David Ginsberg

     

    7:02 Pledge of Allegiance.

     

    VIP’s in attendance: Krystal Marx, Burien Councilwoman, Burien Mayor Jimmy Matta, Burien Councilman Pedro Olguin, Seattle School Board Member Leslie Harris, Seattle Municipal Court Judge Ed McKenna, King County District Judge Ann Parker, Seattle Municipal Court Judge Anita Crawford and Magistrate Fay Chess.

     

     

    Minutes (M)oved(S)econded(P)assed.

     

    Chris Porter proposed an amendment to the agenda to inform the membership of an offer of tickets from Arts West. Chair determined that this would fall under New Business.

    Chair moved Recognition and Awards to members to a later date and advised the Body that State Senator Nelson would not be in attendance.

     

    Agenda as amended MSP.

     

     

    7:22 Chairs Report –

    Paul Ryan retiring. David Hogg taking a gap year to work on elections. Reminded the Membership of the upcoming Duwamish Clean Up and Pramila’s Kick Off event.

    Potential PCOs can file online. Dow Constantine’s Campaign Kick Off Lunch at noon on May 18th.

    There will be a Blue Wave Party at the IAM Machinist’s Hall on June 2nd.

     

    7:27 Treasurer’s Report –

    ​

    ​Membership stands at 303 members. Currently have $29,000.00 in the bank, however, $15k is

    ​reserved for the 2020 Caucuses. There were $3,054.87 in expenses and $5,084.10 in income.

     

     

    7:29 KCDCC Report –

    ​At the end of a 13 hour trial the previous Sunday, Chair Bailey Stober was found guilty on all 5

    ​charges. He resigned his seat.

     

    ​Sharon Mass, who is a DNC member, will act as interim chair. She will preside over the County

    ​Convention. KCDCC DESPERATELY needs funds.

     

    7:37 Post Session Report –

     

    ​Delivered by Rep. Eileen Cody.

    ​

    ​Very busy session, many, many bills.

    ​Disappointed that there was not more progress on Health Care and nothing on the opioid crisis.

    ​

    ​Lots to be happy about. Progress on voting rights, gun control, funding for education, state need ​act, Dreamers, gender equality, Net Neutrality passed, student loan protections, banned

    ​conversion therapy. The Health Exchange was divorced from the Affordable Care Act, Drug Take

    ​Back program passed. Also progress on housing issues, juvenile justice and the environment.

    ​Transportation package got through, and more $$$ for education.

     

    ​She then took questions from the membership.

     

    King County Executive Dow Constantine arrived and thanked our legislators. He also gave a short update on County issues, including housing, Juvenile Detention, issues with Sinclair, and land conservation efforts.

     

    Austin Bell from the Burien City Council spoke. Trespass ordinance repealed, junk vehicle bill defeated, advocated for a youth council on violence, and the need for more rentals in Burien.

     

     

    8:20 Gun Reform program – Chris Porter moderating.

     

    Panel consisted of Seattle City Councilwoman Lorena Gonzalez, Sarah Brady, Campaign Manager for Pramila Jayapal, Shawn Terjeson, statewide communications lead for Moms Demand Action, and Jason Lindbom, President of Washington CeaseFire.

     

    9:06 Old Business – None

     

    9:07 New Business –

     

    ​New PCOs candidates, Michael Matt Miller – 34-1415 and Dawn Rains – 34-1420.

    ​Both are appointed.

     

    Chris Porter advises the membership that Arts West has offered the 34th 50 tickets to the April 34th performance at 6:30.

    9:11 Good of the Order.

     

    9:18 Adjourned.

     

    February 2018 Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th LD Democratic Organization

    Meeting Notes for February 14, 2018

    Note: No secretary was present. Ann Martin agreed to take notes of meeting actions.

    The meeting was called to order promptly at 7 pm. Chair David Ginsberg led the Pledge of Allegiance.

    Dignitaries present were introduced and spoke briefly, including: Councilmember Crystal Marx, Burien City Council; Jimmy Matta, Burien Mayor; Leslie Harris, Seattle School Board Chair; Judge Gregg Hirakawa; and Councilmember Joe McDermott, King County Council.

    The minutes of the previous meeting were approved without objection. The agenda was amended to add reports from the PCO and state committees and then adopted.

    The chair reported that there were several openings on the executive committee including King County committee woman, a digital communications chair and a technology chair. Kate Harris was introduced as a candidate to take on the role of finance chair. The chair described her extensive political experience both here and across the nation. Later in the meeting, the body approved her appointment.

    Gina Topp, treasurer, reported that at the end of January the organization had $22,101.94 in the bank. Income of $5,799.95 and expenses of $692.52 leaves a current balance of $27,209.30.

    First vice-chair Treina Aronson reported that 85 members have signed up as volunteers. She also noted that volunteers will be needed to help the LD caucus on March 24 go smoothly.

    PCO chair Brook Salazar noted that PCO filing this year is in May. He also encouraged people to attend Vote Builder training by Jon Culver on February 17 at the High Point Community Center, which will include door knocking in the newly built out area adjacent to the community center. Crystal Marx was appointed PCO by an affirmative vote of the body.

    State committee woman Ann Martin reported on the state committee meeting that had been held in Bellingham January 26 through the 28. She will submit more extended notes, but highlighted the equity training conducted there and the need of the organization to incorporate and equity lens into its decision-making processes. More to come. Also noted is the Code of Conduct procedures adopted by the state.

    Legislative Action Committee chair Tim Marshall invited people to sign up for Lobby Day on February 19 in Olympia.  He then introduced the panel discussing Safe Injection Sites/Supervised Consumption Spaces. (All the following names are spelled phonetically as I heard them and need to be corrected for spelling. In addition, you should get the titles of the individuals from Tim as I was unable to catch that information adequately. – Ann) Speakers included: Patricia Soling, Terina James and Dr. David Safinenze. Injection sites are aimed at enabling health and safety for as well as conversations with drug users. Jail is the most expensive and least effective way to deal with drug use. One speaker likened the efforts to sex education – you know people will have sex so you aren’t trying to say, “No sex;” rather you are saying, here is how to have safe sex. For more information go to https://www.yestoscs.org/.

    Katy Wilson of the Transit Users Union spoke on addressing homelessness.  Housing may be different depending on needs ranging from housing, shelter to unsheltered policies. Based on a resolution passed last fall, the Seattle City Council will likely consider a new regulations regarding progressive tax policies in March of this year. Based on recommendations from the Progressive Revenue Task Force, the proposal will likely include a tax on large businesses to create a fund for new affordable housing.

    Under new business, three people were elected to committees of the state convention. They include Ann Martin, Credentials; Bunny Hatcher, Platform; and Patrick Wicklund, Rules. The body approved the appointments of Kate Harris as Finance Chair and Treina Aronson as Events Chair. No additional PCOs were appointed.

    The meeting closed with good of the order and adjourned at about 8:50 pm.

    January 2018 Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats

    Monthly Membership Meeting

    1/10/18

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

     

     

    Meeting called to order at 7:01 by Chair David Ginsberg

     

    7:02 Pledge of Allegiance.

     

    7:03 VIP’s present:

     

    Bill Tracy, President of the Southwest Suburban Sewer District.

    King County Executive Dow Constantine

    King County Council Chair Joe McDermott

    Seattle City Council Member Lisa Herbold

    Washington State Supreme Court Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud

     

    Thanks to Bruce Stotler, who sold land to the city for half of its value, adding to Schmitz Park.

     

    Minutes were MSP, as was adoption of the meeting agenda.

     

    Chairs Report –

    Reflections on the past year. 2017 was the year of Resistance.

     

    2018 will be the year of Resurgence.

     

     

    Main Program

    Tina Podlodowski, Chair of the Washington State Democrats

    Western states will lead the Blue Wave, Nevada and Arizona have been good for Democrats in

    the past. The DNC appears to be renewing its commitment to individual states, and this is a

    helpful direction for it.

     

    Emphasis on rural canvassing this past cycle, found that the use of texting increased Democratic turnout by 28%. Tavern Tour and investment in BIG signs were good strategies in this effort.

     

    Looked for Areas of Intersection

     

    Family Wage Jobs and Wage Equity

    Health Care

    Education – Not just college, the trades and union apprenticeships as well.

    Affordable Housing

    Retirement with dignity

    Building a deep bench.

     

    TargetSmart initiative identified Moral Pillars, using this approach to hone our message in 2018.

     

    Joe McDermott – Spoke about the need to Pause and Reflect during Martin Luther King Day.

    Advised that the Light Rail Stakeholder Advisory Group was looking for a West Seattle resident to join it.

     

    Lisa Herbold spoke briefly about the Seattle City Council’s Infrastructure Plan.

     

    Treasurer’s Report –

    Treasurer Gina Topp reports that we have $21,101.94 in the bank and that 187 members have signed up so far in 2018.

     

     

    Committee Reports –

     

    Lisa Plymate is stepping down as State Committee Woman (Thank you Lisa!).

    Ivan Weiss nominates Ann Martin as her replacement. Ivan’s nomination is seconded, and

    Ann is elected by acclamation. Congratulations, Ann!

     

    Ann then went on to present a Resolution to state the 34th’s support of real infrastructure investments. MS and unanimously Passed.

     

     

    No Unfinished Business

     

     

    No New Business

     

    No PCO candidates to appoint.

     

    Good of the Order

    9:02 Adjourned

     

    March 2018 Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    34th District Democrats

    Monthly Membership Meeting

    3/14/18

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

    Meeting called to order at 7:02 by Chair David Ginsberg

    7:03 Pledge of Allegiance.

     7:04 Eileen Cody addresses the membership. Is glad to be home now that the Legislative Session is over.

    7:05 Superior Court Judge Michael Diaz addresses membership. Running to retain seat.

    7:07 Superior Court Judge Karen Donohue addresses membership. Running for reelection.

    7:08 Seattle Municipal Court Judge Andrea Chin addresses membership. Running unopposed.

    7:11 Seattle Municipal Court Judge Maureen McKee addresses membership. Running for position.

    7:13 Seattle Municipal Court Judge Adam Eisenberg addresses membership. Running to retain seat.

    7:15 Speaker (did not catch name) on behalf of Washington State Supreme Court Justice Steven Gonzalez.

    7:18 Minutes approved.

    7:20 Agenda. Marcee Stone-Vekich moved to amend agenda to consider a new resolution, Amended agenda passes.

    7:23 Chairs Report – Chair David Ginsburg addressed the tragedy in Parkland, the student walkout, and March For Our Lives.

    Reminded membership of the Caucus on March 24th.  Purpose is to elect delegates to the State Convention in Wenatchee in June. 10:00 am, Evergreen High School Cafeteria. Same day as the March For Our Lives, there will be a photo booth at the caucus to support the March.

    Treasurer’s Report – Gina Topp reports that we have $27,294.17 in the bank, with income of $1,346.02 and expenses of $1,261.15

    Committee Reports –

    7:26 KCDCC Report – Martha Koester and Les Treall updated the membership on the complaint vs. the Chair, Bailey Stober.

    KCDCC will accept the Vice Chair’s report. Attempt was made to organize a 5 member panel.

    ​Effort failed, could not find last two volunteers. There will be a meeting on March 19 to continue the investigation. Efforts being made to investigate leak. If matter moves to trial the jury would be every King County PCO. Martha remarked that there was no evidence presented at the meeting. Patrick Wicklund raises a point of information, Chair Stober says that he has proof nothing happened.

    7:35 Health Care For All / Washington Health Security Trust presentation.

    Bevin McLeod , Director explained that it is State Based Universal Health Care. Attempts have been made over the past decade to get it passed. It would be Publicly Funded and Privately Delivered. Funding may come from a tax on investment transactions. $100,000 from the General Fund will be allotted for study of this bill. The Office of the State Actuary will assist. Organization’s website is healthcareforallwa.org.

    Q&A – This is NOT advocating a new tax. Would have to apply for a waiver to keep Medicare. They are working with Pramila on it. This will not happen overnight. For now they are concentrating on educating of officials and the public. They are not intending to put forth a Capital Gains Tax. It is important that this insurance coverage is NOT tied to employment. This will not take away healthcare choice. It is solely an administrative entity. It pays your private provider directly. The payer DOES NOT get involved in your care, and provider networks will go away. Acknowledged that there will be job displacement. There will be funds for retraining and the entity will STILL need workers. Single Payer saves Billions, which could be used to fund, not stifle, medical innovation. Many other states are trying to get this passed. There will be another attempt to get it passed in 2019. It was one vote shy of getting out of Senate committee. There is statewide support for Single Payer, it polls at 64% positive. The fact that hospitals are closing in rural areas is sparking interest. Canada would be our model.

    There is a competing initiative that is essentially a different route to get to the same place. They have a funding source that is not in this bill.

    8:23 KC Council Chair Joe McDermott recognized. Discussed efforts to put local companies at the top of hire list.

    8:27 New PCOs – Joe Nguyen and Jack Edy elected. Passed unanimously.

    8:30 Patrick Wicklund raises a point of Parliamentary Procedure. The proposed Resolution is Out of Order.

    Chair David Ginsburg raises a Point of Personal Privilege and wants to keep any exchanges respectful.

    8:35 There is a Motion to Suspend the Rules to allow a Resolution to be brought forth without proper notice.

    62 voting members present. 60 are for the Motion and 2 are against. Motion Passes.

    Marcie Stone-Vekich Presents a motion to circulate a petition to PCOs about the KCDCC Chair situation.

    Patrick Wicklund speaks for Chair Stober, says that he has worked with him and has never seen him exhibit this type of behavior, and is in favor of an investigation. Chair Stober should “have his day in court”.

    Rachel Glass read part of a letter from Tina Podlodowski to the 36th LD that agrees that Chir Stober should step aside.

    Chris Porter decries a rush to judgement. Says that we cannot claim fairness if we do not hear from both sides, and that we do not have all the facts.

    Moved, Seconded and Passed to extend Arguments.

    The question is asked if a Non Member may speak. Parliamentarian Michael Taylor-Judd allows that a current member can cede their time to a non-member, but that this only applies to endorsements.

    Les Treall speaks for the Resolution, pointing out that it is not censorial and does not lay out any charges.

    Art Chippendale asked what such a meeting (the trial) would look like. Chair explained Trial as per Robert’s Rules.

    No other speakers against.

    Voice Vote – The Ayes have it. Not a unanimous vote, but Nays were the distinct minority.

    8:53 Good of the Order

    9:01 Adjourned.

     

    October Monthly Membership Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    October Monthly Membership Meeting Notes

    34th District Democrats
    Monthly Membership Meeting
    10/11/17
    The Hall at Fauntleroy
    Meeting called to order at 7:03 by Chair David Ginsberg

    7:04 Pledge of Allegiance.

    7:06 No VIP’s present.

    7:07 Dale Bright, Dale Connon, and the brothers and sisters of Laborers 242 were honored for their contributions to the 34th.

    Minutes were MSP, as was adoption of the meeting agenda.

    Chairs Report –

    • Glen Morgan filed suit against the 34th on the afternoon of Thursday the 5th.
      Chair expressed his anger at how this will affect the LD. We will now need to spend
      funds on legal assistance that we could be spending on getting Democrats elected. This
      type of action may bankrupt some of the smaller LD’s, however, that is not the case with us.
    • Last Saturday’s Burien Canvass with Rep, Jayapal was great! Knocked on 2,057 doors and had at
      Least 80 volunteers! Chair reminded the membership that getting out and talking to people is the most impactful thing that we can do.

    Treasurer’s Report –

    • Treasurer Gina Topp reports that we spent $5,153 last month, with the bulk of the funds supporting the Burien Slate. We have $24,314.26 in the bank and we will be setting aside some funds for caucuses. Gina is confident in the legal firm that we have retained to defend against the Morgan lawsuit.

    Committee Reports –

    • Legislative Action – Committee Chair Ann Martin brought up Fair Vote Washington
      and Fix Democracy First’s petition about Ranked Choice Voting. In answer to a question about gathering any possible signatures while out canvassing, it was determined that this was not a conflict.
    • Volunteer Committee – Committee Chair Treina Aronson reminded the membership to check out the “Get Active” tab on the webpage and that the next event was an Adopt A Street Clean Up on October 21 at 1p.m.

    Proposition One presentation for Leonardo Flor –

    • States that he manages the Vets and Human Services Levy for the County but is here tonight as
      a private citizen. Informs that as it stands, the levy is 5 cents on every $1,000 of assessed value. It sunsets this year. Proposition 1 on the ballot will continue and expand the program. As of now ½ of funds go to vets and the other ½ go to those “person(s) in need of such services.” These services include, but are not limited to, Mobile Medical Services, WIC, help for the homeless and affordable housing. 2,056 units have been built thanks to the levy. In all, 42 different programs are funded through it.
    • It is the smallest levy in the county. Vets are helped with job training which on average leads to a $28k increase in their household incomes.
    • King County is aging, and the need for Senior Services will continue to rise. By 2040, 25% of King County citizens will be seniors.
    • There IS a property tax exemption to make sure that folks are not taxed out of their homes. 23,000 people are eligible, let’s make sure that we find them! The levy will also fight social isolation, which many seniors and vets experience. Studies show that it is harder on human health than obesity or smoking 13 cigarettes per day.
    • More veterans are poor, and they are getting poorer.
    • Proposition 1 will raise the levy to 10 cents per $1000 assessed value. 1/3 to vets, 1/3 to seniors (55 or older) AND their caregivers, and 1/3 to vulnerable populations, including, but not limited to sexual assault victims and LGBTQ populations.
    • ½ of the first year’s proceeds will promote housing stability.
    • The Senior Programs will also help those seniors who still would like to work to do so, thereby lessening social isolation.
    • Note that the levy is on assessed, not sales, value. Average homeowner will see their tax increase by about $27-28 a year.
    • If Proposition One does not pass, the current $18.5 million dollars in services would cease. These programs serve Seattle as well, and places great emphasis on citizen/resident oversight. Vets and Seniors would get their own oversight boards.
    • ½ of the 1/3 for seniors would go to veteran seniors. This restriction would end when 75% of veteran seniors are housed or $24 million spent, whichever comes first.
    • Leonardo also clarified what vulnerable populations are. They are persons who are “acted upon by the system”. Many groups are thusly defined, and the community would be asked as to where the funds would be prioritized. Currently, they are substance abusers and sexual assault survivors. Re-entry services for vets frequently released into homelessness. Leonardo recognizes that this will not solve everything.
    • Leonardo was asked if there are any other counties in the state that have comparable services, and he replied that King County is actually the only one in the nation to provide these services.
    • He was also asked if this will cause the population to expand with an influx from people from out of the area, to which he answered that this was “empirically not true”’ Most recipients are from this area already and are homeless due to loss of employment.

    7:51 King County Council Chair Joe McDermott is recognized –

    • VERY proud of the work done on Proposition 1.
    • CONGRATULATIONS to David and Steven on their marriage!
    • Spoke about Safe Injection Sites. People are trying to have them banned by several different means. He thinks that it is a good discussion to have, and wants to have a full debate on it. Would like to see a 3 year pilot for 2 sites in drug hot spots. This will be brought up at the next Council meeting on Monday the 16th.
    • Chris Porter moves to endorse Joe’s alternative. It is (S)econded and (P)assed.

    7:57 Chair reports that there will be more doorbelling in Burien, encourages members to adopt a precinct, and advises that walkpieces are now available.

    8:00 – Trick Or Vote!

    • Michael Taylor-Judd suggested Trick or Voting! It is a great night to canvass/walk your precinct,
      as people will be home and will be expecting people at the door all night anyway. Sign up lists
      were passed out.

    No Unfinished Business

    New Business –

    • Anne Phillips shares that there will be sign waving at the corner of 148th and 1st on
      Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30 to 6 p.m. between October 19th and November 7th.
      All are welcome to join!
    • Appointment of PCOs – Jason Cheung appointed PCO of Burien 34-0402.

    Good Of The Order –

    • Jen Flores reports that the Jayapal campaign has asked for help in doorbelling for Rituja
      Indapure who is running for City Council in Sammamish on Saturday the 14th.
    • Katy Harris wants to reminds people to look for Fair Trade Chocolate when buying for the
      Holiday Season.
    • Martha Koester reports that there has been a real flurry of anti-immigrant mail in Burien and
      that we will really need to ramp up the personal contact.
    • Ann Martin reminds us of the SW Family Services Gala at the Georgetown Ballroom on October
      21st, and wants to thank the LD for sending 46 students and parents to see the Arts West
      Performance of “The Who and The What”. (? Is this the right play?)

    8:11 Adjourned to Whiskey West

    July E-Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    July E-Board Meeting Minutes

    34 th District Democrats
    E-Board Meeting
    7/19/17
    Puget Ridge Common House

    • Meeting called to order at 7:06 by Chair David Ginsberg
    • Chair Report
      • Chair provided an update on Glen Morgan filings. Advised that we might be delivered a
        lawsuit in the near future, and that the State Party has strongly advised that the E-Board purchase
        insurance, preferably ASAP. David, Treina, and Gina will be taking training to learn how to defend
        against and prevent future suits. Public Disclosure Laws allow complaints and are retroactive for 5 years.
        These suits are expensive and time consuming, they could possibly bankrupt a smaller LD. Board
        Insurance will help mitigate this risk. In addition, the State Party is forbidden to provide insurance for
        this purpose because they have a different tax I.D than we do. P.D.C. forms should be self-audited and if
        an error is found, we must self-report. The Chair, the Vice Chair and the Treasurer should review the
        PDC’s. Blue Wave will help with compliance review services. Board Insurance will cost about $2500.00
        Directors and Officers would be protected from liability under the insurance. It was mentioned that the
        County used to cover liability, David will check on that.
    • Committee Reports:
      • King County
        • Posted Endorsements. Insurance re: Glen Morgan discussed.
      • Outreach
        • Karen and Steve report that the Burien Parade was GREAT. Thanks to Pramila
          Jayapal and the 33rd ! The 34th was warmly received.
        • Dow, Bob Hasegawa, and John Calkins will be marching with us on Saturday, and Ted will head
          up parade prep efforts that day.
        • Steve expressed some concerns about the White Center Jubilee Sunday, attendance is
          sometimes “sparse” that day.
        • The West Seattle Summerfest was “not great” this year. We did not have a booth.
        • Our Adopt a Street Clean-up event will be Saturday, 8/5 at 10 a.m. We will meet at 16 th and
          Roxbury.
        • Delridge Day is coming up on the 12 th .
        • The White Center Food Bank Picnic and Block Party will be Saturday, August 26 th .
          An email will go out to membership to remind them of parades and events this weekend.
      • Volunteer
        • 72 people in the committee, however, there has not been a lot of response lately.
        • The volunteer page on the website gets the most participation.
        • Logistics for the Resist and Persist Carnival discussed. What program did 3 Dollar Bill Cinema
          use? Drink wristbands and attendant insurance discussed. Liability insurance will cover Dram
          Shop issues. Boars Nest BBQ in Ballard will provide the BBQ. Possibly get South Seattle
          Community College Culinary Program involved next year? LD Picnic date discussed. 9/23.
      • Digital Communications
        • Thanks to Treina for the use of her hotspot. Some of the videos have hundreds of views, and there is some vigorous discussion in the comments. Lynne needs someone to cover the August meeting, as she is unable to attend. She is trying to make our messaging more accessible to the differently abled. Next meeting will be 8/3 at the Burien Library, 7 p.m.
        • Congratulations!
        • E-Board should have posting and Admin privileges across the Social Media platforms. Lynne
          would like further discussion on what our Social Media “voice” should be. Board reminded to
          cross-post on their personal pages. She would like to try to generate a social media schedule.
      • Legislative Action
        • Legislature still in session!
      • Bylaws
        • Discussions are starting now that the endorsement season is winding down
      • Hospitality
        • Kate and Sean had dinner and a discussion with Pat Thompson from the White
          Center Yes Foundation.
      • Membership
        • Joy does not have access to see which members are PCO. Suggestion is made to check the King County website. Les asked how many PCOs there were, David will need to ask Brooks. Ann suggests that in the future, credential reports should be given before any votes are taken.
    • No Unfinished Business.
    • New Business:
      • What about trying to get State AG Bob Ferguson to a future meeting? He could speak about how Washington is Leading the Resistance.
      • August program will include endorsements, in some cases re-endorsements. Hopefully we will get a legislative recap.
      • At the August meeting or possibly in September, David would like each committee to present a short report/update/check-in to the membership. Hopefully, these reports may increase membership involvement, and will let the membership know where help may be needed. Going forward, a couple of committee reports each meeting will get each of them in front of the membership twice a year.
    • Good of the Order:
      • **************** DAVID GETTING MARRIED ON SEPTEMBER 30 th ! **********************
      • The West Seattle Democratic Women will be showing “Chasing Coral” on Thursday at the West Seattle Golf Course.
      • The West Seattle Chamber will be holding a Mayoral Forum in Youngstown tomorrow at 6:15.
      • 60-65 people attended the Light Rail Design meeting that was held at Fauntleroy Hall last
        month.
      • Reminder of the Digital Communications meeting on 8/3.
      • P.D.C. training on 8/12 at 9 a.m…
    • 8:53 Adjourned.

    Chair’s Message: Mayoral Showdown

     150 150 34th Democrats
    The Seattle Mayor’s Race

    The fastest growing large city in America will elect a new Mayor in November, and the vacuum left by the late withdrawal of Mayor Ed Murray has led 21 candidates of varying backgrounds and qualifications to enter the race – making this the most contested race in the August primary. The candidates for Mayor of Seattle are:

    •  Gary E. Brose
    • Casey Carlisle
    • Tiniell Cato
    • Jenny Durkan
    • Thom Gunn
    • Jessyn Farrell
    • Greg Hamilton
    • Michael Harris
    • Bob Hasegawa
    • Lewis A. Jones
    • Dave Kane
    • Harley Lever
    • Mary J. Martin
    • Mike McGinn
    • Cary Moon
    • James W. Norton, Jr.
    • Larry Oberto
    • Nikkita Oliver
    • Jason Roberts
    • Alex Tsimerman
    • Keith J. Whiteman

    With so many candidates, one might wonder how to provide a forum the serves the District and our community without “playing favorites” or “picking winners.” Fortunately, here in the 34th we’ve already solved this problem, and we know just what to do. So saddle up, put on your riding boots and get ready for another

    Showdown in the 34th: Mayor’s Edition

    Just as in April, after brief introductory comments from the candidates they’ll each draw a question at random and answer it, and after all the candidates present have had a shot at answering questions we’re going to let you choose which candidates you want to hear more from through a process of elimination. We’ll let the democratic process determine which candidates get more time to answer the questions that matter here in the 34th.

    At the end of the evening we’ll endorse one (or more) of the candidates. We want it to be fun, interesting, informative and valuable for our members and for the candidates alike. Hope to see you there!

     A note about voting: according to our bylaws:

    “Only members in good standing by the end of the prior month’s meeting may vote, except that any member who had paid dues in the previous calendar year may vote if the membership is renewed at or before the meeting where the endorsement takes place.”

     If you were a member last year but haven’t renewed yet, you can click here to pay your dues and renew your membership in time for the April meeting. If you weren’t a member by the end of the last meeting you won’t be eligible to vote at the April meeting but can join now to be eligible to vote at our big May endorsements meeting.

    http://www.34dems.org/contribute/

    A note about decorum

    After our big May endorsement meeting, a number of new members contacted me to share concerns that might keep them from attending future meetings, and I take their concerns very seriously because we’ve been working hard to build this organization and welcome new members. Several people expressed frustration at the noise from the back of the room. So please be respectful and if you must have a conversation during the program take your conversation outside. But by far most of the concerns had to do with an unsubstantiated personal attack launched against one of the candidates during the endorsement process. That was uncalled for, unhelpful and it’s the sort of thing that turns people away, so for the sake of this organization and the important work we need all hands on deck for, let’s resolve to do better than that, let’s all come to the meeting next Wednesday remembering the words of Michelle Obama: “When they go low, we go high.”

     Let’s continue to build an organization that welcomes newcomers and new ideas, that treats others with respect, that reaches out and engages our community to build connections that make all of us more resilient.

    Let’s show by example what it means to be a Democrat and why it matters.

    In solidarity,

    David Ginsberg

    Chair, 34th District Democrats

    May E-Board Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    May E-Board Meeting Minutes

    34th District Democrats

    E-Board Meeting

    5/17/17

    Puget Ridge Common House

    • Meeting called to order at 7:02 by Chair David Ginsberg
    • Chair Report – President Carter showed up and spoke at Dow’s Reelection Kickoff Luncheon!
    • Committee Reports:
      • King County — Les reports that things are not moving as quickly as he would like with the candidate Support Committee, but he is trying to get access to the Coordinated Campaign lists and hopes that will jumpstart things.
      • Outreach – Karen and Steve report that things went rather well at the Cambodian Fest.
        • 8 Voter Registration Forms and 1 New Member!
        • Treina sent in the application for the Adopt A Street program, our section is 16th and Roxbury to a mile north. We have to have 4 organized Clean Ups before we can get a sign promoting our participation.
        • Met with Stacia Jenkins about tabling at the June 3rd, Burien Pride, event.
        • Seattle Indivisible Activist Fair on May 30th.
        • Working to participate in the Burien and Vashon Strawberry Fests.
      • Program – Michael wonders: Are there any volunteers to work on the bylaws?
      • State Committee – Chris reports that work on the Code of Conduct and the Harassment Policy continues. He is still looking for a Fundraising Co-Chair. Discussion of a theme for the Garden Party, no decisions made yet.
      • Nick reports for Digital Communications/Data/Technology/Web Editor – Spokane LOVES our website and would love our help. A way to obfuscate email addresses for PCOs has been found and will be implemented. Trying to get more experience in the database function of WordPress or using Mailchimp to streamline member communications. Possibly the My Campaign side of Votebuilder? Member Stories project restarting in June, awaiting Ann Martin’s return.
      • Membership – Joy is delighted to report that we have 515 members, the most ever!
    • No Unfinished Business.
    • New Business:
      • Mayoral Candidate Debate/Forum at the June meeting. Who to Invite? Possibly 1st round is each Candidate gets 60 seconds to introduce themselves to the membership, and then are asked a few Yes/No questions. Membership then votes as to who moves on to 2nd round.  Decided that our endorsement will be voted and given at the June meeting. It is decided that every candidate will be invited and we will use the Showdown protocol. As before, ONLY declared Democrats will be eligible to receive the 34th’s endorsement.
      • David received an email from Proposition 1, the 1% For the Arts/Access for All. Asks if we should include this in the program. (David, I must have missed the answer to this. Can you provide?)
      • Ted advises that sauces and desserts are needed for the Spaghetti Dinner. We have 3 sauces and need 3 more.  You can NEVER have too many desserts.  Participation in the sauce contest is optional.
      • New banners have been sent via Slack. Probably will need new t-shirts? Question is asked: Might orders for them be taken? May want to reach out to Darcie Burner’s son for these? He has a printing business. Still looking for a vertical banner, David suggests democraticstuff.com. MAKE SURE TO LOOK FOR THE UNION BUG!
      • Possible discussion of Seattle City Council’s Income Tax proposal at a future membership meeting.
    • Good of the Order:
      • Les asked about possible interest in coffee with Mike McGinn to talk about his Mayoral candidacy.
      • Michael advised the West Seattle Transportation Coalition’s interest in a ST3 Design Workshop on June 22nd at 7 pm to describe and talk through what it will look like when it is complete. Will it be over ground? Underground? Come and make your voice heard! Might be a good springboard to discuss the Center City proposal.
      • Treina is still looking for recipes! Would like them ASAP, may reach out to The Salvadorian Bakery for a recipe or two.
    • 8:01 Adjourned.

    May Monthly Meeting Minutes

     150 150 34th Democrats

    May 2017 Monthly Meeting Minutes

    34th District Democrats

    Monthly Membership Meeting

    5/10/17

    The Hall at Fauntleroy

     

    • Meeting called to order at 7:02 by Chair David Ginsberg
    • Pledge of Allegiance
    • Recognition of VIPs and Elected Officials:
      • Pete Holmes – Running for re-election, Seattle City Attorney
        • Running for his third term as Seattle City Attorney, requests the 34th’s endorsement
      • Bob Hasegawa – Current State Senator, 11th Legislative District, running for Seattle City Mayor
        • Update: Special Session of the State Legislature is likely.
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in his Mayoral bid
      • Dow Constantine – King County Executive
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in his re-election bid
      • Joe Fitzgibbon – State Representative for the 34th, Position 2
        • Let’s help to Flip the 45th!
      • John Urquhart – King County Sheriff
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in his re-election bid, does not want to see the Sherriff’s department slide backwards, referencing the Stranger Slog article about the King County
        • Sheriff’s deputy who was fired for contaminating a homeless person’s water bottle with pepper spray
      • Eileen Cody – State Representative for the 34th, Position 1
      • Judge David Mann – Washington State Court of Appeals Division 1
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in his re-election bid
      • Lorena González – Seattle City Council Position 9, At Large.
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in her re-election bid
      • Joe McDermott – King County Council Chair
        • Update on the Veteran’s and Human Services Levy. It expires at the end of the year, he will push to both maintain and extend it
      • Liz Giba – North Highline Fire Commissioner
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in her re-election bid
      • Nancy Tosta – Burien City Council, Position 5
        • Requests the 34th’s endorsement in her re-election bid
      • Lisa Herbold – Seattle City Council District 1
      • Update: Current focus is passing a city-wide income tax. She is working with Trump-proof Seattle to write a smart, bulletproof plan that will get rid of our regressive sales tax. She is hoping for a full council vote in late July
    • Approval of the Minutes – (M)oved, (Seconded) and (P)assed
    • Adoption of the Agenda – MSP
    • Chairs Report –
      • The April Meeting’s Endorsement vote was illegal according to the bylaws. This was determined after a study of the bylaws and consultation with the County and State parliamentarians. Hence, the April endorsement vote for Seattle City Council Position 8 was invalid. A re-vote will be taken tonight. Candidates MUST attest that they are Democrats to be eligible for endorsement consideration
      • Members who will be eligible to vote are those members who were:
        1. Members in good standing at the April meeting
        2. Members in good standing last year and who have paid their membership dues at tonight’s meeting
    • State Committee Report –
      • Lisa Plymate is confident that the State Party is in good hands with Chair Tina Podlodowski.
      • Meeting format has been changed, and more time is being spent working rather than waiting.
      • Lisa is on the Election and Endorsement Committees and Chris Porter is Co-Chair of the Affirmative Action committee. The Heroes’ Narrative from Fuse Washington is being utilized as it recognizes the value of messaging, and not just the recitation of facts and figures. We as a party need to take a page from the GOP’s playbook and create a narrative. The State Party budget has leapt from $2,000 to $17,000 a month. And, if someone is a good Democrat and is prepared to race, we as a party will support them, as EVERY RACE MATTERS.
      • June first will kick off a summer of canvassing, where our PCOs will go door to door and just listen to the residents in their precincts.
      • Chris reminded the membership to PLEASE mind their recycling, as too much trash lately has been mixed in with the recycling, thereby contaminating it and rendering it garbage
    • Presentation on the Democracy Voucher program by Program Manager René LeBeau:
      • Program goals are to increase the amount of campaign contributions and to increase the number of candidates running. 3 candidates have qualified for the program and 8 more are in the process of qualifying. There have been 3300 unique contributors and $200,000 paid out to candidates.  The names of contributors and the amounts of their contributions are on the program’s website. June 2nd is the deadline for candidates to apply for them. A media announcement is forthcoming to inform which candidates qualified and the process for replacing lost vouchers
    • Consideration of Primary Ballot Endorsements
      • Seattle City Council Position 8
        • Teresa Mosqueda, Jon Grant, (A point of information was raised asking if Jon Grant was a Democrat, which Chair advised would be taken up later), Hisam Goueli, Sara Nelson and No Endorsement were all moved and seconded for endorsement consideration. It was pointed out that a vote of No Endorsement would require 60% of the vote to pass. Hisam, Teresa and Sara all declared themselves to be Democrats. Jon Grant stated that he was not and removed himself for consideration, asking his supporters to vote No Endorsement
        • Lisa Plymate spoke for Teresa Mosqueda.
        • Peggy Tlapak spoke for Non Endorsement, which was ruled out of order by the Chair.
        • Jimmy Haun spoke for Teresa
        • Rachel Glass spoke for Hisam Goueli.
        • No speakers against.
        • Michael Matt Miller spoke for Sara Nelson.
        • No speakers against.
        • Chas Redman and Dave Toledo spoke for No Endorsement, stating that it frees PCOs to door knock their conscience.
        • Brooks Salazar spoke against No Endorsement, stating that’s not what the 34th is about.
        • No other speakers in favor of No Endorsement
    • 8:00 Credentials Report, Balloting and Vote Tallying in process
    • Meanwhile:
      • Annie Phillips moved to have Nancy Tosta added to the Block Endorsement Slate. After some parliamentary back and forth, it was allowed.
      • Martha Koester moved to have Liz Giba added to the Block Endorsement Slate.
      • King County Councilman Dave Upthegrove arrives and is acknowledged.
    • 8:06 – Vote tallying continues. Credentials report is given.
      • 94 voting members present.
      • Vote tallying concludes. Teresa Mosqueda wins the sole endorsement of the 34th District Democrats with 63.3% and 60 votes.
      • In descending order, No Endorsement 22.3%/21 votes, 9.6/9 votes Hisam Goueli, and Sara Nelson 4.3/4 votes.
    • 8:08 – Teresa thanks the membership
      • Marcee Stone-Vekich moved that Stephanie Bowman be added to the Block Endorsement Slate.
      • Final Block Endorsement Slate:
        • King County Executive Dow Constantine
          KC Sheriff John Urquhart
          Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes
          Seattle Position 9 Councilmember Lorena González
          KC District 5 Councilmember Dave Upthegrove
          Burien City Councilmember Nancy Tosta
          North Highline Fire Commissioner Liz Giba
          Seattle Port Commissioner Stephanie Bowman
      • All are endorsed.
      • Port Commissioner Position 4 is brought up.
      • A vote to sustain the Chair passes vs a motion to endorse Port Commissioner Position 4.
        • Chairs decision is appealed and overruled.
      • Max Vekich moved to endorse John Persak for Port Commission Position 4.
        • Seconded.
      • Patrick Wicklund moved to endorse Brooks Salazar for Port Commission Position 4.
        • Seconded.
      • Brooks Salazar moved to endorse Jacob Richardson for Port Commission Position 4.
        • Seconded.
      • John Persak spoke for himself and declared as a Democrat.
      • Brooks Salazar spoke on time yielded by Patrick Wicklund and declared as a Democrat.
      • Marcee Stone-Vekich spoke vs Brooks Salazar, pointed out that the ILWU works at, not for, the Port.
      • Brought up that Brooks may have had an advantage over any opponents due to his role as PCO Committee Chair and access to member list. Ted Barker spoke for Brooks Salazar and stated that he was not contacted by Brooks regarding this matter.
      • Jacob Richardson spoke on time yielded by Brooks Salazar and declared as a Democrat.
    • 8:30 Paper ballot taken and votes tallied.
      • John Persak has 45 votes 57.7%, followed by Jacob Richardson with 18 votes and 23.1% and Brooks Salazar with 15 votes and 19.2%.
        • Runoff ballot is taken for Port Commission Position 4.
        • Jim Matta, candidate for Burien City Council addressed the membership and requested their endorsement.
        • John Persak wins endorsement with 52 votes and 69.3%. Jacob Richardson has 23 votes and 30.6%
      • Port Commissioner Position #1
        • Norm Sigler, Ryan Calkins, and John Creighton all were moved and seconded for endorsement. All were declared Democrats.
        • Norm Sigler and Ryan Calkins both spoke for themselves.
        • Ivan Weiss spoke for John Creighton.
        • Justin Hersh spoke against John Creighton
        • Vote was taken and tallied, Ryan Calkins wins sole endorsement, 48 votes and 71%. Norm Sigler had 15 votes with 22%, and John Creighton with 5 votes and 7%
      • David Mann moved for endorsement for Washington Court of Appeals Position 1.
        • Seconded.
        • Peter Goldman spoke for him, no one against.
        • Motion for Endorsement passed by acclamation
      • Krystal Marks moved for endorsement for Burien City Council Position 7.
        • Seconded.
        • No other candidates, and endorsed by acclamation
      • Pedro Orguin moved for endorsement for Burien City Council Position 1.
        • Seconded.
        • No other candidates, and endorsed by acclamation
      • Jimmy Matta moved for endorsement for Burien City Council Position 3.
        • Seconded.
        • No other candidates, and endorsed by acclamation
      • No additional endorsements put forth
    • No Old Business
    • New Business
      • Brooks Salazar running a class on how to use Vote Builder, Sundays from 1-2pm
    • Treasurer’s Report
      • 518 Members!
      • $16,905.74 in the bank
      • $700 raised at the Earth Day fundraiser
      • $674 collected in Membership Dues
    • Good of the Order
      • Chris Porter with a reminder to sort recycling.
      • Marcee Stone-Vekich reminded the membership to “Decline to Sign” Initiative 1552, which curtails rights for the Transgendered to use the restroom with which they identify.
      • Ted Barker reminded the membership of the South King County Democrats Spaghetti Feed.
    • 9:13 – Adjournment to Whisky West.
    • Good of the Order
    • 9:50 – Meeting Adjourned.