If you couldn’t make it to the Open Government Forum at 5:30 p.m. at the Sylvan Way branch of the Kitsap Regional Library system, feel free to read the transcript from the live blog of the event.
Kitsap Caucus A blog about politics and government in Kitsap County as well as Washington state political news as it relates to Kitsap County.
Mahan seems to be saying that there is some question whether the port district can increase its levy beyond the amount generated by new construction plus one percent of the current year’s levy.
If he wants to be “transparent,” he can put it in writing where all can read his thoughts. This blog would be a good place to start.
What is being called the “IDD levy” (used for the airport many years ago and the Bremerton marina now) is limited to a total of 12 years — the first 6 doesn’t need voter approval, but the second 6 requires voter approval if there is a petition.
I don’t know of any dispute over the idea that it is limited to a total of 12 years — all of which will have been used up by the port. The first 6 was used for the airport and industrial area near it, and the second 6 will be used for the Bremerton marina.
See WAC 458-19-050 and RCW 53.36.100.
The only levy the port hasn’t used is for dredging, canals, and land leveling. It requires voter approval. See RCW 53.36.070.
What would allow an increase above one percent plus new construction without voter approval? Nothing, so far as I can tell.
The port has to be more transparent in an effort to regain the voters’ trust, because the port cannot increase its levy by more than the allowed one percent plus new construction without voter approval. Asking people who don’t trust you to give you a lid lift isn’t easy.
Too bad all govt/public meetings aren’t a live blog.
Was it Mike F who mentioned that reporters could make news more interesting or readable?
Hard to do when I note the ‘Most emailed” column seems to have sex stupidity as the favored theme for the reader to email the article..or other asinine topics.
The Bremerton story is of interest.. an example of government treatment of a business it wants gone for whatever reason. The story climbed to #4 then disappeared and now harder to track.
On the other hand, “Unsatisfying Sex Life Leads to Silverdale Woman’s Meltdown” hasn’t left the most emailed column.
I thought it a silly article without interest and yet there it stays in the most emailed section….week after week.
Open government is truly a government for and by the people…if both government and the people are working for the common good of the majority and best interests of a healthy environment for the following generations.
Sorry I missed the meeting.
Sharon O’Hara
Steven,
Here’s a link to get you started on the William Trask story.
http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_021308INV_jail_disabilities_KS.bb1c6522.html
Best wishes.