Auditor seeks volunteers to write opposing statements in Voting Guide for November ballot measures

Volunteers are needed to write opposing statements for Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District and Port of Lopez ballot measures

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

San Juan County Auditor, Natasha Warmenhoven, is seeking people interested in writing an argument against the Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District and Port of Lopez ballot measures for the 2026 General Election voters’ guide.

To ensure an informed electorate, and in accordance with state law, every district that places a measure on a ballot is responsible for appointing committees to write voters’ guide arguments both for and against the proposition. If a district is unable to appoint committees, that responsibility falls to the County Auditor. 
 
Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District approved resolution No. 20-2026, Proposition No. 1 – Excess Property Tax Levy for 2027. If approved, this measure would authorize the District to collect $210,000 by a levy of excess taxes upon all taxable property within the District in an amount estimated to be $.091 cents per $1,000 assessed valuation for one tax year – 2027 – for the purpose of funding operations and capital improvements of the District.

Port of Lopez approved resolution No. 2026-2, Proposition No. 1 – Term Length of Port Commissioners. If approved, this measure would authorize the District to increase the term of office for commissioners of the Port District from four (4) years to six (6) years.  

These measures need an argument against them.

The full resolutions for the districts are available at sanjuancountywa.gov/Current-Election.

If you are interested in writing an argument against the Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District or Port of Lopez ballot measures, contact the Auditor at elections@sanjuancountywa.gov or (360) 378-3357. Up to three people may be named as argument writers, though they may seek the assistance of as many people as needed. Statements are limited to 250 words and are due by August 18, 4:30 PM.

About the San Juan County Auditor’s Office 

The San Juan County Auditor’s Office is responsible for financial reporting and budgeting for the County, overseeing elections, processing licenses, and more. The Elections department’s main office is located at 55 Second St., Ste. A, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. For more information about San Juan County’s Elections Office, visit www.sanjuancountywa.gov/elections or email elections@sanjuancountywa.gov.