34th District Democrats General Meeting Minutes

March 9, 2022 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

Pre-Meeting Program 

• Mothers for Police Accountability presented by Reverend Harriett Walden
• Learn more: https://www.mothersforpoliceaccountability.org/ 
• Listen in: https://1150kknw.com/shows/mothers-justice-show-with-rev-harriett-walden/    

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

Chair’s Remarks

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

Opening Ceremonies

• Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass

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

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

Budget and Membership Reports

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

Candidate Spotlight

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

Presentation re: Seattle Approves, Initiative 134 Approval Voting

• Presented by Efrain Hudnell and Logan Bowers 
• Goal is to keep voting simple and accessible; the current plurality system produces inequitable results. 
• Gives every candidate a thumbs up or a thumbs down, which allows voters to express more of their wishes. 
• Learn more: hseattleapproves.org/ ,  hwww.nwprogressive.org/weblog/2019/02/instant-runoff-isnt-a-sensible-alternative-to-our-current-voting-system-heres-why.html  , hwww.fairvote.org/electoral_systems_rcv_vs_approval_voting , helectionscience.org/library/approval-voting/ 

Fundraising 

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

PCO Update 

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

Redistricting 

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

2022 Delegate Caucus 

• Presented by Colleen Hinton
• March 26, virtual caucus, focused on issues 
• 32 Delegates, 16 Alternates from the 34th 
• Members and PCOs vote, member by Feb 25
• To run for Delegate, register here: https://bit.ly/BeA34Delegate (there will be a couple of zoom meeting to help delegates prepare for the convention)  
• To participate in the vote, register here: https://bit.ly/Vote-2022-Caucus 
• Voting ballots will be offline (open 10am-close 5pm)
• Delegates have a voice in:  Convention rules, Platform and Resolutions
• June 25th State Convention (virtual or in-person)
• Learn more: https://34dems.org/call-to-2022-delegate-caucus/ 
• Have questions?  Contact caucus@34dems.org or vicechair1@34dems.org. 

2022 Caucus Rules

• Rules are provided by the state, and tweaked to work for the 34th https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gvp_uLPA8Fm5oU2z_gW-Wz48VE5dw9n-OwoUTZf0KzI/edit 
• Ann Martin moved to adopt the rules as presented and Bunny Hatcher seconded. 
• The poll vote to adopt the 2022 34th Legislative District Caucus Rules as presented was unanimous. 

Outreach Committee 

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

Announcements 

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

Good of the Order

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

Adjourned at 8:58 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

Minutes from the 34th Legislative District Democratic Caucus

March 26, 2022

The caucus was called to order at 10am.

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

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

Chair Rogers appointed persons to fill caucus roles:

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

Chair Rogers then stated the purpose of the caucus.

Elected officials spoke:

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

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

Ann Martin gave the Credentials Report:

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

The Credentials Report was adopted without objection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The caucus adjourned at 11:30.

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

Pre-Meeting Special Program 

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

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

Chair’s Remarks

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

Opening Ceremonies

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

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

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

Budget and Membership Reports

• Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the budget since the last meeting.    
  1. Budget increased largely due to membership dues
  2. Remember to renew! https://34dems.org/contribute/  
  3. Change Makes $ense!: https://bit.ly/change-makes-sense 

Candidate Spotlight

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

 Advocating with the WA State Legislature

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

Steps:

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

Resolution to Consider

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

Healthcare Caucus Report & Whole WA Video

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

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

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

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

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

Executive Board Member Appointments

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

Redistricting 

• March meeting will be the official cutover to the new district boundaries.
• Need to check your district?  Visit  https://www.redistricting.wa.gov/final-legislative-district-map  
• Redistricted members should join the 33rd! 
• Join by February 25 in order to participate in the 2022 Delegate Caucus

PCO Presentation 

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

Announcements 

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

GOTO and Mark Your Calendar

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

Adjourned at 9:07 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

Pre-Meeting Special Program 

• “In Our Own Voices” on mental illness presented by Zoey Suarez and Melanie Estes, recorded here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCON7J56wtBveqzF0xVywhrg 
• Learn more:  https://nami.org/Home, https://namiseattle.org/, and https://www.namiwa.org/ 

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

Chair’s Remarks

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

Opening Ceremonies

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

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

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

Budget and Membership Reports

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

Candidate Spotlight

3 Candidates spoke about their run for office.

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

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

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

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

• Healthcare organizations are delaying and denying reproductive care, gender affirming surgeries, death with dignity care, and other discriminatory practices, putting them above Washington law. Resolution for all health care providers to provide all legal services in Washington state. 
• Bunny moved to adopt this resolution, Chris Porter seconded. Roxanne Thayer spoke in support of the resolution.  
• https://34dems.org/resolution-regarding-non-discriminatory-medically-comprehensive-healthcare-in-washington-state/ 
• Unanimous voice vote in support of the resolution. 

State Party Representative Election 

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

GOTO and Mark Your Calendar

• • Learning From the Past / Organizing for the Future offers strategies to resist against big fossil fuel and construction companies, especially in campaigns that displace communities of color. Thursday, January 13th at noon. Note: Film associated with workshop can be viewed beforehand.   
  • Organizing for Immigrant Justice by Centering Deportation Defense will explore how the institution of citizenship and the detention/deportation machine create racialized experiences, singling out immigrants. It will highlight resistance efforts and how we can create systemic change.  Thursday, January 13th at 5 p.m. 
  • Assault on Dr. King’s Vision: The Rise of the Far-Right and the Attack on Democracy will explore recent trends and threats posed by anti-democratic movements, unpack the rhetoric and discuss new ways to defend democracy.  Thursday, January 13th at 7 p.m.   
  • Lessons from Cuba – Reproductive Justice is a Human Right explores how reproductive rights have been key to advancing Cuban women’s rights. Friday, January 14th at 5 p.m.  
    Chicago Footwork: A Strategy for Education and Community Mental Health shares an approach to community healing developed by black youth in Chicago. Chicago Footwork uses dance, music and culture to foster black identity rooted in confidence and connection. Saturday, January 15th at 10 a.m.   

• Many Fires This Time: We the 100 Million follows poet and activist, A Scribe Called Quess?, as he connects with activist poets and communities they represent, fighting for equity and justice, from Chicago, Kentucky and Oakland to his hometown of New Orleans.  Saturday, January 15th at noon. Note: Please watch the film associated with the workshop beforehand.  
• Abolish Auto-Decline references state laws that allow the juvenile system to decline its jurisdiction over children charged with serious offenses, who are then tried in adult court. This webinar discusses strategies and solutions to ending Auto-Decline. Saturday, January 15th at 2 p.m.  

Adjourned at 9:16 by Carla Rogers, Chair  

34th Dems Nov Membership Meeting Minutes

November 10, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

Pre-Meeting Mini-program, 6:30pm 

• Randy Litzenberger – 34th Dems Energy, Environment & Land Use Caucus Co-Chair, presented “Climate Policy 101”
• Randy’s slides can be found on 34dems.org Programs Hub page
• Randy can be contacted at litzenbergerrandy@gmail.com for any questions

7:16pm – Call to Order by Carla Rogers, Chair

Welcome 

Carla congratulated winners of the General Election, thanked all who stepped up to help with getting out the vote in the 34th.  Next year there will be a Coordinated Campaign for the congressional mid-term elections, and 34th members will be called upon once again.  

Opening Ceremonies

• Land Acknowledgement – 1st Vice Chair, Rachel Glass
• VIP recognitions – Chair Carla Rogers invited elected officials in attendance to say a few words
• Speak Up Survey: What 34th Dems Activities/Programs did you value most?  https://bit.ly/11-21-SpeakUpSurvey 
• Zoom tips

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

Agenda: Aaron Garcia motioned to approve, Leah Griffin seconded.  Approved by voice vote.

Minutes: Sarah Koch motioned to approve, Ann Martin seconded.   Approved by voice vote.

Budget and Membership Reports

• Treasurer Julie Whittaker reported on our budget.  There were further expenses in October on candidate donations, PCO walk pieces, and canvass expenses. Budget report is emailed to all members the Sunday prior to the membership meeting.
• Membership total this month is 553.
• Everyone’s membership expires end of year; all will need to renew in January.  
• Spare change can be donated anytime to the 34th’s ongoing Change Makes $ense fundraiser: https://bit.ly/change-makes-sense

Acknowledgment of Election work

• Carla Rogers acknowledged PCOs and other volunteers who door-knocked, phone and text banked, as well as donors to our local candidates.  
• Caucus/Elections Chair Colleen Hinton thanked all who came out to canvas in Burien in particular, and spoke of her experiences while door knocking in Burien.  
• PCO Chair Nick Bonazza reported that our 20 Burien PCOs together with other 34th PCOs and volunteers, covered 24 (out of 34) precincts and about 3500 doors.  Voter turnout in the 34th was 52.37%, significantly higher than King County (43.96%).  The role of PCOs is crucial to helping Dems get elected – Nick asks all 34th members to consider becoming a PCO, or ask friends and family.

Upcoming Seattle School levies

• Jake Ewart from Schools First, which works to inform and advocate for levy funding to support Seattle Public Schools, presented information about the upcoming school levies which will be on a special ballot in January and February.  Please spread the word about the importance of these levies, please endorse them, and most importantly, please vote for them!  
• Rachel Glass motioned to endorse both levies; Ann Martin seconded.  No speakers against.  Approved by voice vote.
• Ann Martin asks if we can make a donation to help pass the levies.  Carla Rogers and Julie Whittaker responded that they will need to look at the budget and see if we can donate in January, as we have used all our donation budget for 2021.  

Announcements

• Pop-up Social Opportunities:  Carla has been meeting 1:1 with Board Members to review 34th activities and progress in 2021 – one idea that came up (thank you, Leah Griffin!) was to have more spontaneous social activities.  Carla initiated the first of these this past Friday following Election Day, to debrief the election results – at Beer Star in White Center – and 20 people came at short notice.  Look out for, and join, more of these in the future!
• We will have an election for a State Party Representative (WA State Dems) (female/non-binary) in January, to replace the rep who recently retired (Janine Anzalota).  If interested in being a candidate, contact Carla.  
• We also have two opportunities due to two resignations on the 34th Executive Board: 2nd Vice Chair, and Platform/Legislative Action Committee Chair (this role drives the membership policy caucuses).  
• The Awards Nominations Committee is also looking for new members – Ann Martin is leading that committee and additional members are requested.  
• Please nominate members for our Annual Awards!  Nominations due by December 15.  Criteria and past recipients can be viewed here.
• Holiday Service Project:  this was an idea put forward by our newest Board member, Aaron Garcia, instead of the canceled 34th Holiday Party.  We have chosen Camp Second Chance, one of ten city-sanctioned homeless encampments run by its residents.  We will provide a meal along with some needed items on Sunday, December 12.  Please sign up to contribute to this effort in one of three ways: buy and cook food, donate items, or donate dollars.  Sign up here.
• Next Executive Board Meeting will be Wednesday, November 17 at 7PM.  Open to anyone, contact Carla Rogers to request the Zoom link to attend.
• Next General Membership meeting will be Wednesday, January 12, 6PM.  
• New Year Pop Up Social to be announced. 

Pre-Legislative Session Town Hall

Our 34th LD Representatives Joe Fitzgibbon and Eileen Cody, and State Senator Joe Nguyen presented on achievements from the 2021 session and what they hope to accomplish in the 2022 session, which will be a short session, probably again conducted via Zoom, creating an additional time crunch to pass much needed bills.  Questions were taken from members in attendance.  Contact legislators directly for additional questions:  Joe.fitzgibbon@leg.wa.gov; Eileen.cody@leg.wa.gov; Joe.Nguyen@leg.wa.gov.

Resolution to Consider
Bunny Hatcher introduced a Resolution on Recovery of Endangered Salmon, Steelhead and Southern Resident Orcas, brought to us by Annie Phillips, Co-Chair of our Energy, Environment and Land Use Caucus.  The Board recommends that this be passed by the members.  Resolution proposes removal of the four lower Snake River Dams for environmental reasons, an action strongly supported by Northwest Tribes.  Annie Phillips spoke for the resolution.  No speakers against.  Ann Martin motioned that we adopt the resolution, seconded by Annie Phillips.  Resolution was adopted by voice vote.

Redistricting Status

• Congressional Redistricting: most maps have Burien going to the 9th or 10th district; 2 maps have White Center going to the 9th.  https://www.redistricting.wa.gov
• Legislative Redistricting: the four Commissioners (2 R, 2 D) will submit their final agreed-upon map on Nov. 15;  Complete redistricting plans will go to County Auditors by Dec 31.  Check out the details at https://bit.ly/34-redistricting. 
• King County Districting: the 34th is currently split into two districts, District 8 (Joe McDermott) and District 5 (Dave Upthegrove).  Elizabeth Heath encouraged members to weigh in with comments – there are significant changes being proposed to District 8 in particular and we have real chance to impact the decision.  Go to https://www.kingcounty.gov/independent/districting.aspx

Good of the Order

• • Carla reminds everyone to sign up for our Holiday Service Project Dec. 12

• Rachel Glass relays news of the sudden death of former 34th member Robert Fuentes, who died Oct 22 from a heart attack – there will be an article in our December newsletter.  Join with Rachel in mourning the loss of a really great Democrat, strong Union member, and advocate of working people.  

Meeting Adjourned 8:53 pm by Carla Rogers.  Happy Thanksgiving!

34th Dems General Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

Pre-Meeting Special Program 

Jen Nye (jen@wholewashington.org) of Whole Washington (https://wholewashington.org/) presented on Universal Healthcare and the organization is working to get it on the Washington state ballot.

7:00 pm – Call to Order by Vice Chair Rachel Glass 

Opening Ceremonies

• Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass. 
• Statement regarding Texas recent legislation surrounding abortion. 
• Statement regarding September 11th twenty year anniversary.  
• Special Guests and Elected Officials are invited to speak:
  • Kate Baumgartner, kate@pattymurray.com  Senator Murray’s political director.  Busy month in D.C. and Washington State, including Infrastructure Package, new funding for clean energy, salmon recovery, wildfire funding, and many other areas where the Senator continues to work.   
  • Seattle City Council Member Teresa Mosqueda, fighting for progressive revenue, and supporting families during Covid.  
  • King County Executive Dow Constantine, met with Senator Murry last week re: infrastructure bill, electrifying entire Metro Bus system, working on the right way to verify vaccines in public venues and gatherings to stay safe, working to re-house Afghan refugees as well as local homeless populations.  
  • King County Conservation Supervisor Chris Porter gave a reminder to leave grass clippings to support our pollinators.  
  • School Board Position 6, Leslie Harris, reminder to slow down in school zones, SPS Mtgs. Weds eves.   Leslie.harris@seattleschools.org Tele: 206.475.1000. 
• Speak Up Survey Question:  https://bit.ly/Sept2021-Survey 
• Zoom Tips and Protocols

Approval of Tonight’s Agenda (same for agenda and minutes) 

• Ann Martin motioned to approve, Bunny Hatcher seconded. Approved with voice vote. 

Approval of August Minutes

• Ann Martin motioned to approve, Bunny Hatcher seconded. Approved with voice vote. 

Announcements and Mark Your Calendar 

• Picnic on 9/18 CANCELLED due to Covid-19
• Congratulations to Joe Fitzgibbon for receiving Legislator of the Year
• KCDCC Alternate election postponed to 10/11 meeting; Aaron Garcia is running. 
• Oct. 13 Pre-Meeting Program: Homelessness Focus and Criminal Justice speaker

Budget and Membership Report

• Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported the budget this month saw several campaign contributions and tshirt sales.    
• Want a tshirt? https://34dems.org/show-your-colors/ 
• Membership is now at 551.
• Encouraged ongoing donations toward Change Makes Sense https://secure.ngpvan.com/exeQA1q2-0qR3KnQpBjARw2 

Endorsement Voting

• Seattle School Board District 7: Leslie Harris endorsed Brandon Kyle Hersey; Steve Butts seconded.  Leslie Harris spoke on his behalf, and ceded the rest of her time to the candidate who spoke on his behalf.  Verbal approval, no opposition.  Brandon received the 34th’s endorsement. 
• Highline Education Levy Renewal: Leah Griffin moved and Ann Martin seconded to endorse the Levy. Leah Griffin spoke in favor of the measure. No speaker in opposition.  Verbal approval, no opposition, endorsement passed. 

Resolutions

• Whole Health Washington Resolution 

• • • Bunny Hatcher summarized the resolution and motioned to support AND send to local media and local representatives; Richard Bartlett seconded. Jen Nye spoke in favor. No speakers against the resolution. 
• The resolution passed by voice vote of acclamation.
• Resolution in Support of a SELECT COMMITTEE FOR CLIMATE in the Seattle City Council

• • Bunny Hatcher summarized the resolution and moved to support. Kathy Minch seconded. Bunny ceded her time to Annie Phillips who spoke for the resolution.  No speakers against the motion. 
  • https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HXtKLfrpcA7vaE2JaCnkX7wjX_U6bMBK/edit Resolution   
  • The resolution passed by acclamation voice vote.

PCO Update by Nick Bonazza

• Remind everyone to vote!  Help GOTV! Burien democratic seats need our help in staying democratic. 
• Walk pieces are in production & Canvassing activities planned.  

During-Meeting Special Program 

• Elizabeth Farmer presented on the International Rescue Committee’s response to the Crisis in Afghanistan. 
• Learn more: https://www.rescue.org/country/afghanistan 

Good of the Order 

• If you happen to know young adults ages 23-26 that were in foster care as teens, they may be eligible for $1,000 in federal pandemic relief for basic needs, education, employment and much more.. The deadline to apply is 9/24. https://www.treehouseforkids.org/pandemic-aid/ 
• Chris Porter is working on anti-racist language and process around endorsements and will have more information coming soon. 
• Contact Annie@soundviewcottage.com for a yard sign supporting Hugo. His opponent won the primary and had signs EVERYWHERE. 

Adjourned at   9:07 by Vice Chair Rachel Glass 

Membership Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

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

Opening Ceremonies

• Land & People Acknowledgement – First Vice Chair Rachel Glass. 
• Elected Officials are invited to speak:
  • Krystal Marx, Burien Vice Mayor
  • Chris Porter, King Conservation District Supervisor
  • Joe McDermott, King County Councilperson
  • Eileen Cody, State Representative
  • Joe Fitzgibbon, State Representative
  • Lisa Herbold, Seattle City Councilperson
• Speak Up Survey Question:  Speak Up Survey – https://bit.ly/August-2021-Speak-Up-Survey
• Zoom Tips and Protocols.

Approval of Tonight’s Agenda

• Jordan Crawley moved to amend to reconsider endorsements for Seattle City Council Position 9 and Seattle Mayor; seconded by Sarah Koch. Jordan spoke to his amendment. Motion passed with voice vote without objection.
• Ann Martin moved to endorse amended agenda; Chris Porter seconded. Agenda is approved with voice vote.

Approval of May Minutes

• Voted to approve the minutes, Zoom approval vote, no opposition. 

Budget and Membership Report

• Treasurer Julie Whitaker reported on the budget and this month finances.  Membership and Change Makes $ense donations added $900, Primary expenses were $6,100 leaving a month-end balance of nearly 36k.  
• Membership is now at 551.

Endorsement Rules and Voting Process

• Candidates must be a declared Democrat.
• 34th Voting Member by deadlines:
  • July 11 for new members, and
  • August 10 for renewing members
• 34th voting members must reside in the district.
• We have validated our member list and our tally team will be using that to validate all the votes this evening.
• Alternative Voting Method, only for those having issues with the Zoom tool, or those with multiple eligible voters and only one device: text votes to 206-200-6526 (include email address and name with vote).
• Chair Rogers reminded attendees about our cultural rules of order and to make this a good night. 

Endorsements

• Seattle Mayor

• • James Williamson endorsed Bruce Harrell; Carolyn Ladd seconded. James spoke in favor.
  • Joe Fitzgibbon endorsed Lorena Gonzalez; Lisa Herbold seconded. Joe spoke in favor and ceded time to the candidate.
• Lorena Gonzalez received the endorsement vote.
• Highline School Board Position 2

• • Nancy Kick endorsed Jennifer Fichamba; Krystal Marx seconded. Nancy spoke for and ceded partial time to the candidate.
• Jennifer Fichamba received the endorsement vote via “raised hand” in Zoom.
• Seattle Charter Amendment 29 (Compassion Seattle)

• • • A pre-meeting program featured former Seattle Deputy Mayor Tim Ceis, who advocated for the city amendment. Tye Reed, from the opposing group House Our Neighbors, provided counterpoints against.
    • Julie Whitaker moved to endorse; Eileen Cody seconded. Julie spoke in favor. Roxanne Thayer spoke against and ceded some of her time to Krystal Marx.
• A Reject Charter Amendment 29 position received the vote.
• Seattle City Council Position 9

• • • Jordan Crawley endorsed Sara Nelson; Chris Jensen seconded. Jordan spoke for and ceded time to the candidate. Elena Perez spoke against. Carolyn Ladd spoke in favor and ceded time to the candidate. Chris Porter spoke against.
• A No Endorsement for City Council Position 9 received the vote.
• Seattle City Attorney

• • • Leah Griffin endorsed Nicole Thomas-Kennedy; Krystal Marx seconded. Leah spoke in favor. James Williamson spoke against. Roxanne Thayer spoke in favor and ceded time to Leah Griffin.
• Nicole Thomas-Kennedy received the endorsement vote.

Brandon Hersey spoke to his campaign for Seattle School Board Director for District 7

Chair’s Remarks

• Hospitality volunteers needed to help with the Reunion Picnic and other in-person future events.
• KCDCC Alternate election was postponed to the September meeting.
• A program on redistricting will be held August 17 at 7pm on Zoom.
• The Reunion Picnic will be September 18 at 4pm until sunset.
• Monthly executive board meeting was moved to August 25 at 6:30pm.
• The next member meeting will be September 8 at 7pm.
  • A pre-meeting mini program will feature the Whole WA plan for universal healthcare at 6pm.
• There will be a White Center Benefit Block Party on August 29 at 12 to 5pm. Proceeds go to assist businesses hurt in the Downtown White Center fire earlier this summer.
• Burien City Council campaign issues and challenges for our slate of endorsees for the November Election. 

Budget Updates

• • Treasurer Julie Whitaker presented updates to the budget due to a previously planned review. Julie moved to approve; Chris Porter seconded.
• A Revised Budget was passed by voice vote.

Candidate Donations

• • Chris Porter moved that we evenly split $600 originally budgeted for the Seattle Council Pos. 9 race and give $150 to each of the four Burien City Council candidates. Ann Martin seconded. 
  • Norman Sigler moved that we give $150 to Jennifer Fichamba for her High School Board race. Chris Porter seconded.
• Both donation motions were passed by voice vote.

Resolutions

• Resolution in Support of the Protecting the Right to Organize (“PRO”) Act

• • • Bunny Hatcher summarized the resolution and moved to support; Ann Martin seconded and spoke in favor.

• The resolution passed by voice vote.

 https://34dems.org/resolution-in-support-of-the-protecting-the-right-to-organize-pro-act/

• Resolution on Sustainable Mobility

• • Bunny Hatcher summarized the resolution and moved to support. Ann Martin seconded.
  • Resolution maker Annie Phillips moved to amend; seconded by Ann Martin. Annie spoke to the change. Elena Perez spoke against. The amendment was passed by voice vote.
  • The amended resolution passed by voice vote.

https://34dems.org/resolution-on-sustainable-mobility/

Adjourned at 9:40 by Chair Rogers.