“Con” Writers Needed for Ballot Measures

— from San Juan County Elections Office —

Two local taxing districts have submitted resolutions to the San Juan County Auditor to place tax measures on the November ballot. The Orcas Island Library District is proposing to increase its regular tax levy from 30.34 to 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District is proposing a one-year levy for 2017 in the amount of $80,000. The levy for 2016 was $115,000.

In order to ensure an informed electorate, it is the responsibility of each district to appoint committees to write arguments for and against its measures. If a district is unable to appoint committees, that responsibility falls to the County Auditor.

Both the Orcas Island Library District and the Lopez Solid Waste Disposal District have so far been unable to find writers of arguments against their measures. For that reason, County Auditor Milene Henley is seeking people interested in writing arguments opposing either tax measure.

Up to three people (per measure) may be named as argument writers, though they may seek the assistance of as many people as needed. Statements are limited to 250 words.

Please contact the Auditor at mileneh@sanjuanco.com, or (360) 370-7558, if you are interested in serving in this capacity.