How long will the Somers campaign continue to mislead the public about fiscal responsibility? It is disappointing to me that in his position as council chairman he has either not read the Snohomish County Charter or is choosing to distort it for political gain. Section 2.2 — Powers of the Council — the charter clearly states; “To levy taxes, appropriate revenue and adopt budgets for the county.” In Section 3.2 “Powers and Duties of the Executive” the charter states; “Prepare and present to the county council a proposed budget and a budget message setting forth proposals for the county during the next fiscal year.”
Section 6 spells out the budget adoption process. It requires the executive to deliver a proposed budget and then requires to council to adopt a budget. The council has the power to toss the executive’s proposals out and start over. While the council is not allowed to spend more than the projected revenue they are allowed change the revenue projection. That’s a little like the council printing money.
In 2006, the voters added accountability language requiring a quarterly report from the executive and giving the council more power to adjust the budget. Nowhere in our charter does the executive have authority to spend down reserves without council approval.
I have known John Lovick for 20 years and served in elected office along side him. He is one of the most honest and capable leaders I have served with. He has my vote and deserves yours.
Mike Cooper
Edmonds
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