Monthly Meeting Minutes

April 17, 2019 Board Meeting

 150 150 34th Democrats

Board Meeting Notes for Minutes

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

April 17, 2019

7:00 Call to Order

7:01 Primary Decision by the WA State Democratic Party

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

7:12 LAC Report

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

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

7:40 Fracking Resolution

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

7:55 Treasurer’s Report

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

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

8:01 Glen Morgan Lawsuit Updates

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

8:05 Membership Discussion

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

8:08 PCO Committee

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

8:09 Outreach Committee

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

8:13 Hospitality Committee

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

8:15 Communications

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

8:16 Events

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

8:18 Bylaws

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

8:21 Good of the Order

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

8:33 Adjourn

April 10, 2019 Monthly Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

General Meeting Minutes (District 1 Candidate Forum)

April 10, 2019 – Hall at Fauntleroy

6:30 Potluck Social Time

7:00 Call to Order and Opening Ceremonies

Rachel Glass led the Pledge of Allegiance

VIP Acknowledgements

Senator Sharon Nelson thanked the attendees for their support throughout her terms in office. Chris Porter presented Senator Nelson with an award for Elected Official of the Year (awarded originally in December 2018).

Joe McDermott was recognized.

Amy Sutton – King County Circuit Judge – was recognized and shared her background.. Inslee appointed her to Position 49 of KC Superior Court. Judge Sutton is running in the fall and asked for our support.

Leslie Harris, Seattle School Board Director, was recognized. Director Harris shared news of the SPS $40m dollar deficit.

Lisa Herbold was acknowledged.

Bill Tracey asked for support in the fall election while announcing an Open House in the new Maintenance Facility (end of Seatac runway) this Saturday.

Chair acknowledged 34th meeting visitors.

7:13   Approval of the Minutes – Minutes are approved as written.

Adoption of the Agenda – Motion was made to approve the agenda as written. Agenda is adopted with a majority voice vote.

Report of Officers and Standing Committees

Chair’s Report – asked for respect for the candidates during the forum.

Treasurer’s Report was presented by Ben Reilly. There are 180 members as of today.

State Committee Update – Chris Porter and Ann Martin shared an update about the recent April 5-7 meetings in Pasco, WA. It was approved at the state committee meeting that we will move to a Primary (early March) in 2020. Porter shared goals about voting in a diverse set of delegates to the Milwaukee convention in 2020. Costs of being a delegate to the national convention are in discussion. Resolutions were also presented at the meeting. Ann Martin shared that the DCCC (not part of the DNC) has adopted a rule to boycott/blacklist any group or consultant who challenges a Democratic incumbent. This was dismissed by the state committee.

Events Committee update provided by Jacqui Morris. An Earth Day activity is planned. April 20, 10-2. Our fundraiser will be held on June 1 at the WS Eagles on California Ave.

7:24 Max Brown invited any PCO appointees to the front and appointed new PCOs. Currently at 88 PCOs.

7:30 Jordan Crawley and Rachel Glass moderated the District 1 Forum.

8:50 Good of the Order

Ann Martin announced 3 events:

  • West Seattle Democratic Women will host a District 1 Candidate forum at their next luncheon meeting.
  • The NW Progressive Institute is having their Spring Gala Friday April 26 at 7 PM at the Renton Community Center.
  • Fix Democracy First is holding their 2019 annual awards dinner Friday May 4 at Bloedel Hall at St. Marks. Nancy MacLean, author of “Democracy in Chains” will speak. Ann had a ticket to give away.

Julia Bobadilla-Melby from One Washington detailed several events in support of I-1000, including a March-a-thon on Easter weekend April 19-22 from Seattle to Olympia. They are pushing the legislature to pass the initiative.

Jacqui Morris spoke of the need for a volunteer coordinator. She also will be seeking flower donations from members for the June 1st fundraiser.

Chair Gina Topp announced that our next membership meeting will focus on the Burien City Council races and will include a candidate forum..

9:00 Adjourn to Whiskey West

March 20, 2019 Board Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

Board Meeting Minutes

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

March 20, 2019

PDF: 03-20-19 Board Meeting Minutes

7:05 Call to Order

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

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

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

7:47 Dow Constantine visit

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

8:35 General Calendar

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

8:38 Legislative Action Committee

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

8:49 April Program

D1 Candidate forum!

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

8:52 PCO Committee

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

8:57 Events/Fundraising Committee

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

9:03 Outreach Committee

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

9:07 Adjourn

March 13, 2019 Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

General Meeting Minutes

March 13, 2019 – Hall at Fauntleroy

Attendees: See Sign In Sheet

7:01 Opening Ceremonies

        Pledge of Allegiance

        VIP Acknowledgement

7:07 The minutes from the February 13, 2019 meeting were accepted as presented.

The agenda was adopted with no changes. Motion made by Chris Porter and seconded by Ann Martin.

7:08 Report of Officers and Standing Committees

Chair’s Report was presented by Gina Topp and focused on the vast number of democratic candidates there already are and how we will need to align behind a single candidate.

Membership and Treasurer’s Report was presented by Gina Topp in Ben Reilly’s absence. There are 125 members currently down significantly from last year.

There will be a membership event held on March 27th at Arthur’s on California at 7pm.

Communications chair requested input on 34th communications via a Google forms survey. Input will be used to make changes in current communications strategy and website content.

7:15 Joe McDermott discussed recent gun violence prevention. He also announced his campaign kick off on March 28th at 5:30 at Click! on California.

7:16 Primary versus Caucus Presentation and Discussion

Chris Porter shared details of the Affirmative Action Plan

Ann Martin presented the Delegate Selection Plan

  • The difference between the two plans is caucus or primary
  • The current nomination process was shared.
  • The major difference for the LD is that our focus for the caucus process is the largely undefined precinct level, with a fairly well defined LD Caucus.
  • The primary is run by the Elections office so our focus shifts to the largely undefined LD Caucus.
  • Cost is another big difference as the precinct caucuses are very expensive.
  • Venue Size – an LD based caucus would need to be held at a very large venue.
  • Timing – caucus would be held on a Sunday.
  • Not sure how absentee ballots would be handled, or if there would be an absentee opportunity.
  • We spent $30K on the caucus process in 2016 (14 locations rented).
  • We do not have party registration in WA.
  • In the Primary system, voters would be required to list their party designation. This means that the 34th would get data on voters which would help our votebuilder efforts.
  • A questions period was held.
  • Discussions were held at tables and each table shared their ideas.

8:20 New Business

Leah Griffin  was introduced as the Chair’s nomination of KCDCC position #2. Leah spoke about several bills involving sexual assault. Motion was made and passed to approve her nomination. PCOs voted and approved.

8:30 King Conservation District endorsement

Martha made a motion to endorse Chris Porter.  Ann Martin and Martha Koester spoke on behalf of Chris and encouraged everyone to request a ballot.

8:35 Three PCOs were appointed. (87 PCOs currently)

8:38 Jeanne Fellin made a motion to suspend the rules to consider a non-binding resolution to endorse the Primary process.

Rules were suspended.

Chris Porter stated a point of order and spoke against the motion.

Jeanne Fellin presented a Resolution (review here).

Martha Koester made a motion to amend the resolution by striking the 4th Whereas. Jacqui seconded the motion.

The group voted for the amendment. Motion to amend fails.

Chris Porter made a motion to amend. Chris requested to strike “and call on their State Committee Members to vote accordingly at the April 2019 State Central Committee meeting.”

Debate was held for and against.

The group voted on the amendment. Amendment passed.

8:50 Good of the Order

Events Chair Jacqui Morris announced plans for the Earth Day celebration and upcoming events.. Information will be posted the website soon! The annual fundraiser will be the first week of June. Please volunteer to help with events planning.

Lisa Herbold announced the first candidates forum. Speak Out Seattle will host the event at 7-8:30 pm Thursday, March 21st, at American Legion Post 160 (3618 SW Alaska). Lisa’s campaign kick off will be held on March 27 from 2-4 at the Highland Park Improvement Club (HPIC) located at 12th and Holden.

Les Treall expressed concerns about the size of attendees of the LD Caucus. He is scared of possible attendance. Volunteer after the 2019 election to support this process!

Randy Litzenberger announced the Climate Strike activity information. 3/15 at 5pm.

Sofia Aragon announced the Meaningful Movie event 8pm Burien City Hall on 3/28 at 6pm and 3/29 at 8pm.

Jesse mentioned the Democracy Vouchers and mentioned holding them and using them.

Renton Community Center will hold a plant sale at 9am  = hosted by King Conservation District.

April 10 next meeting – candidate forum for 34th District 1.

Democracy Vouchers will also be discussed at the meeting.

9:08 Adjourn to Whiskey West

February 2019 Board Meeting

 150 150 34th Democrats

Board Meeting Minutes

February 20, 2019

Attendees: Gina, Ann, David, Tai, Max, Steve, Karen, Nick, Les, Jacqui, Sofia, Ben, Dawn

7:04 Call to Order and Introductions

7:06 Photoshoot

7:16 General Announcements from the Chair

  • KCDCC Bylaws Meeting is this weekend.
  • Joe McDermott invited us to attend the Alliance for Gun Responsibility Luncheon on April 30 at noon at the Sheraton downtown.
  • Still seeking a membership chair.

7:20 Communications Report

  • Carla presented the committees goals for 2019.
  • Committee plans to survey the membership via google docs to solicit input on the 34th communications (web, newsletter and social)
  • A request was made to have Hotspot at the Hall of Fauntleroy for meetings. Board members with Hotspots will share this information at the next meeting.

7:33 Caucus Committee Report

Ann Martin gave a report for Rachel Glass. There are significant changes being discussed for the upcoming election cycles. The group held a lively discussion.

DNC provided the new rules and they are being reviewed.

At April State Party meeting, Ann and Chris will vote to determine how we will do the next election. Several board members requested the ability to give input on this to our representatives.

Suggestion made by Karen and Gina to have this topic on the March meeting agenda to share status with the membership.

  • Historical Context of the Process
  • Options being considered
  • Ask for input to be submitted during the public comment period in March

8:11 Outreach Committee Update

Karen and Steve shared the Outreach Committee events calendar and invited the board to jointhe Outreach Slack channel. Next Outreach Committee meeting March 21. Adopt-a-Street sign is up and will be shared in communications channels when a picture is available.

8:19 Treasurer’s Report will be posted on Slack as Ben wasn’t able to attend the entire meeting to give a report.

8:20 Glen Morgan lawsuit status – Gina provided updates under closed executive session. (No  minutes.)

8:26 Events Committee Report

Jacqui stated she has not been in touch with Lacey (co-chair) yet. Earth Day is in April and she is beginning to plan an event. Her suggestion was to hold it at the West Seattle Nursery.

Jacqui would like to rename the Garden Party to the annual fundraiser.  The group mentioned that this event must be held before the Primary. Jacqui will move forward with a June date for the fundraiser. She proposed a June date with an indoor location (potentially the Eagles hall on California or the Burien community center.

The annual picnic will be held in August.

8: 34 A spirited discussion of the 34th endorsement calendar was held.

Jordan suggested that we have a Policy Roundtable along with the usual debate format.

The endorsement schedule/plan will be defined by Gina and shared at the next meeting.

The South King County Democrats organization is holding a spaghetti feed on May 18. They have asked us to partner on the event providing auction items (10 items), attendance, and someone to attend planning meetings. Nick Bonazza volunteered to represent us.

8:54 Bylaw changes

David shared that we need to update bylaws to align with the DNC bylaws.

Work was done in the past but never pursued. David will bring recommendations to the April Board Meeting.

8:56 Program for March

The group agreed on the following program items for the March 13th membership meeting.

  • Democracy Vouchers
  • Caucus Decision Updates

9:00 Good of the Order

Dawn suggested that state level budget/new revenue discussions be a topic for a future meeting.

9:06 Adjourn

January 2019 Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

Minutes of the January 2019 Reorganizational Meeting of the 34th LD Democrats

The Hall at Fauntleroy

January 9, 2019

7:02 Call To Order from Temporary Chair Shasti Conrad, Chair KCDCC

7:02 Flag Salute led by State Senator Joe Nguyen.

Parliamentarian – Allan Munro

Sergeant at Arms – Les Treall

Tally Chair – Ann Martin

7:04 Credentials Report – 50 eligible PCOs present.

7:05 Motion to adopt agenda and meeting rules. Chris Porter motioned to amend rules to grant 2 minutes to each speaker, and 2 speakers for and 2 speakers against.

7:06 Question of Intent of Amended Rules raised by Ann Martin.

7:07 Bunny Hatcher spoke Against.

7:08 Chris Porter spoke For.

7:09 Ann Martin asked who was eligible to vote – only PCO’s elected in August.

7:10 Credentials Report – 51 eligible PCOs present.

Explanation of current County Rules.

7:11 Question asked: Do we need to give notice to change rules?

As per Parliamentarian – All rules are up for discussion as the LD is reconstituting itself.

7:13 Vote on Amendment – 2 minutes/2 For/2 Against

33 For

17 Against

7:16 Agenda and Rules adopted.

7:17 Resolution to keep District Bylaws in effect adopted.

7:18 Election for 34th LD Chair:

Gina Topp Moved and Seconded.

Rachel Glass Moved and Seconded.

Ivan Weiss Moved and Seconded.

Speakers for and against all candidates heard.

7:40 Joe Nguyen addressed the membership while votes were tallied. He will be on the Energy, Environment and Tech Committee, the Rules Committee, the Transportation Committee and will be Vice Chair of the Human Services Committee.

7:48 Joe presented with the 2018 Rising Star Award. He announced a Town Hall at the Delridge Community Center.

7:52 Representative Eileen Cody announced her retirement from Kaiser after 40 years with them. Announced that a Public Option bill would be put forth.

7:54 Election Results announced.

Gina Topp – 52.8%

Rachel Glass – 22.6%

Ivan Weiss – 24.5%

53 credentialed votes. There were 54, but one was spoiled.

1st Vice Chair Nominees

David Ginsberg

Ivan Weiss – Declined Nomination.

Rachel Glass

7:58 Peggy Abby spoke for David Ginsberg. 

     Sofia Aragon spoke for Rachel Glass.

8:00 Vote begins.

8:04 Representative Joe Fitzgibbon addressed the membership and spoke of his excitement for the new term.

8:09 52 Votes

Rachel Glass — 71,2%

David Ginsberg — 28.8

8:10 Second Vice Chair

David Ginsberg – Declined Nomination

David nominates Sofia Aragon

MSP – Sofia elected by acclamation.

8:12 State Committee Person Male – Ann Martin nominates Chris Porter – Wins by acclamation.

8:14 State Committee Person Female – Chris Porter nominates Ann Martin – Wins by acclamation.

8:17 KCDCC Male Delegate Max Brown nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:18 KCDCC Female Delegate Elizabeth Archambeau nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:20 KCDCC Alternate Male Ted Barker nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:22 KCDCC Alternate Female Martha Koester nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:23 Secretary Karla Rogers nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:25 Treasurer Ben Reilly nominated, wins by acclamation.

8:27 New Business –Marcee Stone-Vekich reminded the membership that School Levy and Water 

     District votes are coming up.

8:32 Motion to vote on endorsing the levies. Required 80% to come up for a vote.

Yes – 43 Votes

No – 8 Votes

Motion passes.

Proposition 1 – Heather Barker and David Ginsberg spoke for. 

         Moti Krauthamer and Lois Schipper spoke against.  

         41 For 

         13 Against 

          Motion Passes

Proposition 2 – No speakers for or against. 

         32 For 

          6 Against

Motion Passes

Water District Proposition 1 – Moti Krauthamer spoke against. 

          26 For

9 Against

Motion Passes.

8:50 Good of the Order – Les Treall asked for Committee members and reminded the membership of the upcoming special election.

8:55 Meeting Adjourned.

January 2019 Board Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

Executive Board Meeting

January 16, 2019

Attendees: Carla Rogers, Steve Butts, Max Brown, Jesse Greene, Randy Litzenberger, Jordon Crawley, David Ginsberg, Jacqui Morris, Les Treall, Martha Koester, Sofia Aragon, Nick Bonazza, Marcee Stone-Vekich, Ann Martin, Ted Barker, Chris Porter, Ben Reilly, Rachel Glass, Gina Topp, Betsey Archambault

7:04 Call to Order and Introductions

7:20 Review and Discussion of 34th Committees

The attendees reviewed and discussed the work of the standing committees. Chairs were confirmed/committed. It was agreed that we should update the role of the committee to meet current activities/responsibilities.

Committees discussed included:

    • PCO
      • Chair – Nick with David, Randy and Max on the committee
    • Fundraising  – did not discuss
      • Chair – DeLancey Lane
    • Membership
      • OPEN
    • Outreach
        • First meeting – January 24th at Uptown Espresso (Delridge), 7pm
      • Co-Chairs: Karen Richter and Steve Butts
    • Leadership Development
      • Chair – Les Treall
    • Hospitality
      • Chair – Jesse Greene
    • Legislative Action
      • Chair – Jordan Crawley
    • Caucus & Elections
      • Chair – Rachel Glass
    • Hospitality
      • Chair – Jesse Greene
    • Events
      • Co-Chairs – Lacey Watson and Jacquie Morris (sp?)
  • Diversity & Inclusion
    • Chair: Sofia Aragon

Committees not discussed included:

    • Young Democrats
    • Programs
      • Chair – Gina Topp
    • Communications  
      • Chair – Carla Rogers
    • Bylaws & Rules
      • Chair – David Ginsberg
    • Finance
      • Dawn Rains
  • Data & Technology 
    • OPEN

Important Upcoming Meeting – Feb 9

Machinists Hall – Southpark (9125 15th Pl S, Seattle, WA 98108)
 KCDC Bylaws & Rules Committee

8:44 Program for our February General Meeting (February 13th)

    • Gina thought an internally focused meeting would be appropriate.
    • Max suggested a different format for the meeting that allows more discussion in small groups.
    • Ann suggested something connected to the Legislative Session
    • Ann suggested that a program about Election Security might be interesting
    • Municipal election cycle is 2019 – homelessness, housing affordability, equity, public option (Cascade Care)
    • Announcements of candidates.
  • Gina and Sofia will work to get a panel of experts on several timely important topics.

8:58 Housekeeping

2nd Wed – General Meeting

3rd Wed – Board Meetings

Format

    • Committee Reports
  • Program for the following month

Emails for elected/chairs will be handed off or reassigned by David.

May have a call with our attorney.

Bylaws committee made suggestions late last year. We do need to make changes to the Bylaws to be in state compliance.

9:04 Good of the Order

Les suggested that all eBoard members read through the Bylaws and Endorsement Rules.

Chris Porter has filed to be the King Conservation District Supervisor.

Next KCDCC meeting will be held Tuesday, January 22 meeting Renton Carpenters Hall meeting.

9:11 Meeting adjourned

November 2018 Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

November 14th, 2018 

The Hall at Fauntleroy 

 

7:00 Call to Order 

7:01 Pledge of Allegiance 

7:02 No November Minutes. Agenda (M)oved (S)econded (P)assed 

7:03 Chairs Report – Election Wrap Up.  

7:07 Treasurer’s Report  

 

7:09 Awards Committee report – Ann Martin 

Nominations are open for the LD’s 2018 Awards. Winners to be announced at the Holiday Party  

in December. 

 

7:13 34th LD Reorganization will take place at the January meeting on January 9th, 2019. 

 

7:14 KCDCC Reorganization will take place on December 1st at the Machinist’s Hall in South Park. 

 

7:16 Discussion of the dues revision led by Michael Taylor-Judd. Vigorous discussion.  

Speaker against – Ivan Weiss 

Speaker for – Michael Taylor-Judd 

Speaker against – Ivan Weiss 

Speaker for – Martha Koester and Ann Martin 

 

7:29 –MSP. 

 

7:30 – AIDS Memorial Pathway Project. On behalf of Tom Rasmussen, David made a presentation for this proposed project. It is to run from the Capitol Hill Light Rail to Cal Anderson Park. The request was for support of the project. David did not have a lot of information about the project. This will be re-presented in January. 

 

7:35 – Question was asked if there was a quorum present. Affirmative. 34 members were present, quorum is 20. 

 

7:36 Endorsement of signature gathering for Initiative 1000. MSP by acclamation. 

 

7:40 – Motion to Censure PCO Dan Gage for conduct unbecoming a Precinct Committee Officer.  

Noted that new PCOs take office on December 1st.  

Dan Gage Spoke for himself. 

 

7:54 Motion to Censure passed.  Mr. Gage threatened legal action. 

 

7:55 Leslie Harris motioned to suspend the rules to endorse the levies for K-12 education. She is speaking as a private citizen and not in her capacity as a school board member.  

 

8:00 King County Council Chair Joe McDermott recognized. He informed the membership of the passing of the county budget, which will address gun safety, the census, no fare increases for the water taxi for the next two years, funding for South Park and housing.  

 

8:06 Danna Pakulak spoke about the Navos Gift Drive.  

 

8:07 Good of the Order – Washington State voter participation was over 70%! 

 

8:11 Adjourn to Whiskey West.

September 2018 Meeting Minutes

 150 150 34th Democrats

Meeting called to order at 7:00 by Chair David Ginsberg

7:01 Pledge of Allegiance.

7:02 Minutes and Adoption of Agenda MSP.

7:03 Chair’s Report – Hospitality and Membership Chairs are currently vacant.  Chair related how his family has been affected by gun violence. This, along with jobs, housing and income inequality will all be topics raised in the debate tonight.

7:06 New Business – Proposal from the E-Board to pass a slate of Initiatives. I-940 (De-escalation training for Law Enforcement) I-1631 (Cleaner Air, Cleaner Energy) and 1639 (Gun Safety) – MSP.

7:08 Martha Koester spoke in support of King County Council Member Jeanne Kohl-Welles proposed budget amendment for affordable housing.  Brooks Salazar raised the point that the issue is moot as this issue has already been addressed in Council.

A motion to table the issue until the next meeting was MSP.

7:11 PCO Chair Brooks Salazar announced that there would be a penalty against a PCO at the next membership meeting.

7:12 – Representative Eileen Cody arrived and was greeted.

7:13 – A Debate in the Lincoln Douglas format between candidates for State Senate Shannon Braddock and Joe Nguyen. Chris Porter moderated.

Joe won the toss and spoke first about how he would address economic inequality. Acknowledges that our tax code is regressive. Favors a Capital Gains Tax, and for reviewing those tax emptions that as of now will never expire. Points out that the amount of the exemptions is more that the budget of the state. Supports a State Bank. McCleary clearly did not address the inequality/achievement gap. We must support our teachers, and we need to make sure that our elected officials reflect our community and our community’s values. Lack of access to childhood early learning linked to inequality.

Shannon’s Cross Examination – Supports capital gains tax. What does Joe’s method of “naming and shaming” look like? Which tax exemptions would he target?

Shannon then gave her ideas on how she would address inequality. Hopes that her children would be able to live in Seattle if they wanted to. Limited by our regressive tax system. There are over 600 tax exemptions in the WA Tax Code.  She would focus on Luxury/Consumer Services, international banking, prescription drug resellers, investment banking, and state sales tax on out of state residents are outmoded. Addressing these loopholes/exemptions could net us about a billion dollars. Capital Gains figures in there too. Working Families Tax Rebate, based on the Federal Earned Income tax. Capital Gains Tax would be a heavy lift in this state. Clearly, we are not paying our teachers enough. Let’s change this. Favors free tech school or c/c to get workers change. Better for COC. Child care affects the mother’s mood. Happy kid? Happy, calm mom.

Joe – He would not just name and shame. He represents the 34th, one of the most liberal districts in the state, if not the nation and is not interested in pandering to moderate Democrats or Republicans. Health care access is worth standing up for. We do not have a claw back mechanism for lost tax exemption or loophole funds. Boeing is an illustrative example. They were given many tax incentives to stay here in Washington State, yet they still moved to Chicago anyway. Would be in favor of taking another look to see if those are being used appropriately.

Shannon – Shannon cares just as much as Joe about the folks in our district, and our state.

Equity access is hugely important. Best Starts for Kids Levy has been remarkable. Spoke about involvement with the Somali community regarding health care. We must be prepared to be uncomfortable with what we don’t know and be willing to connect and learn about things that we may not know. Need to raise the Housing Trust Fund, it helps to leverage other dollars. We should be looking at surplus land, across the board, INCLUDING the State Department of Transportation. Homelessness is a complex issue, and we need to start giving front line workers more funds to help prevent it. When building shelters, we need 24/7 shelters. They are the most effective way to help the homeless, as there are often Navigation Centers at them as well.

Joe – How do we make sure that funds go to housing and not to stadiums?

Next topic was Schools, guns, and public safety. The statistics are sobering. There are more gun dealers in Washington than Starbucks AND Post Offices combined. What specific legislation will you introduce to address this? What is your plan to build support?

Shannon – Kids should not be worrying about how to defend against an active shooter. Supports I-1639.

The Legislature has failed us. Gun Violence IS a public health crisis. Have not done a good enough job in dealing with how domestic and gun violence inter relate, or for protecting families. How guns relate to suicide and mental health. For every dollar invested in mental health for children, $17 are saved later.

It isn’t about taking away people’s guns anymore than seat belts are about taking away people’s cars.

Getting I-1639 passed is not enough. We need to have a solid plan of how we will implement it.

If I-1639 doesn’t pass, she will introduce legislation to address every piece of it.

Joe – Mental health and suicide.  Very personal for him, as his cousin committed suicide using a gun.

Supports I-1639. We do not need military weapons to go hunting with. Need more training in gun safety.

This is an issue that can be prevented.

Funding comes into play. $25 fee for gun purchases, to be used for gun safety education and to provide funding for prevention. We need to keep better track of people who have guns.

Joe would like to know how Shannon talks to people on the other side of the gun debate.

Shannon finds that a lot of them are motivated by fear. Individually, she finds more common ground. Observes that the NRA stokes the fear mongering. Taking a Public Health approach emphasizes SAFETY.

Joe recognizes that there is a cultural issue as well. We need to engage with people to find out what motivates them so that we can find a common solution. There should be training for the safe use of guns. Good place to start.

Shannon – Hopes I-1639 passes. If it doesn’t pass, there ARE legislators that are working on the issue.

Senator Frockt from North Seattle is one of them. She would reach out to him to come up with a plan to engage those on the other side. Would be relentless in keeping this issue at the forefront with other legislators.

What is the highest priority for the 34th?

Shannon – Passing Capital Gains tax and addressing our regressive tax system. Addressing Child Care access. This is very important. People should have the opportunity to make the life that they want for themselves.

Joe – Fixing the tax structure. Having an equitable environment for everyone. Standing with workers and the working class. Is not taking PAC money. The DISTRICT is his special interest.

Closing statements – Both Candidates thanked the membership for coming out and participating.

Shannon pointed out that she cannot self-finance.

8:13 Election in 55 days!

Britney from the Coordinated Campaign advised that we keep in mind the lessons of the 2016 election. Nothing is safe, and we need to make sure that we are getting people involved because that means that they will be more likely to vote next time.

Britney has some granular data about priority precincts that she would be happy to share.

Avi from Kim Schrier’s campaign came to talk about Kim. She’s been a pediatrician in Issaquah for the past 17 years. Saw what the Republican Health Care plan would do her patients. It is a tough race in a big district. Kim will need our help.

Hannah from the 47th LD (Our Sister District) was up next. She is the Campaign Manager for Mona Dawes for the State Senate. Debra Entenman is running as well.

8:25 King County Council Member Joe McDermott moved to endorse Seattle Proposition 1. Assures that it does not fund charter schools. It will inject a lot of money into Seattle Schools. It was Moved, Seconded and Passed by the membership.

Good of the Order: Seattle School Board President Leslie Harris gave a short talk about the state of the school Board and the school boundary changes that are being discussed. The Seattle School Board has a 20 Billion Dollar wish list, of which only 1 billion will be on the next levy. She appreciates the teachers and the staff for bargaining hard and avoiding a strike.

9/15 to 10/15 National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Martha Koester has info to help people get re-enfranchised. And for Domestic Violence survivors to vote anonymously.

Chris Porter reported on an outbreak of HIV in North Seattle, and that there has been a 17% uptick in sexual assault reporting.

8:40 – Adjourned to Whiskey West.

August 8, 2018 Meeting Notes

 150 150 34th Democrats

Meeting called to order at 7:00 by Acting Chair Michael Taylor-Judd

7:00 Pledge of Allegiance.

7:02 Acknowledgement of VIP’s – Representative Eileen Cody, State (and endorsed) Senate Candidates Shannon Braddock and Joe Nguyen.

7:07 Minutes and Agenda (M)oved(S)econded(P)assed.

7:08 Recognition of the nominations of Rashida Tlaib and Sharice Davids, the first Muslim woman and one of the 2 two first Native American women to Congress respectively.

Need to get our PCO#s up. 2020 Caucuses are expected to be very well attended.

7:10 Treasurer’s Report –

Garden Party raised $23,000, expenses for it were $8,000

There is $15,000 in the caucus fund and $19,641.56 in the savings account.

7:12 KCDCC Report – Martha Koester reports that there is a new Treasurer.

7:13 Chris Porter expressed his thanks to the Garden Party Committee.

7:14 Recognition of Seattle City Councilmember Lisa Herbold.

7:16 – Program – Things you can do to get involved!

Help with the Outreach Committee to get people signed up to vote!

Get involved and help with other districts and campaigns.

Some organizations worthy of your consideration:

Voter Registration and Engagement:

Latino Community Fund of Washington (info@latinocommunityfund.org) – Works on growing

Latinx community involvement.

Code Blue Washington (www.codeblue.team/) – Kim Ricketts reiterated that STATE LEGISLATIVE

RACE MATTER. She invited the membership to join the Code Blue Facebook Group. They are not

A fundraising operation in this state yet. They try not to favor any candidates in primaries.

Voter Registration is NOT their focus. It is more on engagement. Don’t have an iPhone? Prefer

pen and paper to tapping on a keyboard? Check out https://postcardstovoters.org

You can help from the comfort of your own home! The Code Blue team does work with

MiniVan, the state parties and candidates.

 

Knock 10 (itunes.apple.com/us/app/knock-10/id1241443399)

 

Homelessness:

Facing Homelessness (www.facebook.com/HomelessInSeattle/)

Low Income Housing Institute (https://lihi.org/tiny-houses/)

Washington Low Income Housing Alliance (http://WLIHA.org)

Real Change (http://realchangenews.org)

West Side Interfaith Network (https://sites.google.com/site/wschristianchurches/) Provides

meals and funds

 

Timothy Harris from Real Change spoke about the paper.

 

Also discussed were the Facing Homelessness Facebook Group, the Pike Place Senior Center,

Camp Second Chance, Low Income Housing Alliance’s Tiny Houses program, support for

Veterans, the America’s Promise program.

 

Observed that centralized services were not as efficient as de-centralized services were.

 

It was also pointed out that School Districts define homelessness differently than the

government does, and that tough conversations were needed about prioritizing funding.

Teams? Theaters? Or…People?

Other:

Bathrooms that are safe for all (www.refugerestrooms.org)

Assist Citizenship Seekers

Planned Parenthood (www.istandwithpp.org

Volunteer to help pass Initiative 1639.

Check out www.volunteermatch.org

8:10 New Business – Martha Koester introduced a Resolution in support of Councilmember Kohl-Welles’s Amendment to invest an additional $184 million into affordable housing for King County residents. It is a compromise on stadium funding and funds for the homeless.

A point of order was raised of the necessity of suspending the rules to consider the motion.

Moved and Seconded to vote to suspend the rules. Motion failed. Steve will publish it in the newsletter.

8:20 Recognition of newly Elected PCO Julie Whitaker from Vashon Island.

8:23 Good of the Order.

8:25 Adjourned.