I supported the changes made by the charter approved by the voters in 2005.

Thus, I am distressed that Proposition 2 would eliminate the present position of county administrator, a professional position similar to that of a CEO in a private company, with a real role in the leadership of the county.  This position fulfills an important part of the separation of powers concept of governance.  The position prevents mismanagement and inappropriate, politically motivated intrusions into operations by the legislative branch.

The position of county manager proposed by the Charter Review Committee sounds innocent enough but the differences are significant: the Manager position is more like an administrative assistant. Because of the lack of separation of the administrative and legislative branch a key separation that Proposition 2 seeks to undo the real people in charge would be, like before the charter, the multi-headed council, who as before would meddle giving conflicting direction to the hired  manager  causing confusion, stagnation and legal chaos.  I choose not to go back to this.

The challenges we face in our county are significant.  We need the very best and most highly qualified administrator we can find to direct the complicated day-to-day operations of the county.  The only way to ensure that we attract such a competent professional is by keeping the separation of powers and the position of county administrator as set forth in the present charter.

Please Vote No on Charter Review Props 1 and 2!

Peggy Hoyle

Orcas Island