Regarding Evan Smith’s Sept. 23 column, “Who gets forum slots?”:
The Richmond Beach Community Association traditionally sponsors a candidate forum during its October general meeting for races that have a direct impact on Richmond Beach. In years past, the RBCA has consistently limited panelists to candidates whose names appear on the King County ballot. The purpose of having an objective, bright line rule such as this is that it automatically removes discretion from determining who is deserving of a seat at the table.
Write-in candidates (i.e., candidates whose names do not appear on the King County ballot) have always been welcome to attend, speak with attendees informally before and after the event, and pass out literature. The candidate forum scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Richmond Beach Congregational Church will follow that format.
This year, however, the RBCA board has been criticized as excluding write-in candidates for the benefit of other candidates on the ballot. It has never been our intent to “exclude” anyone based on who they are or what they stand for. In asking the RBCA board to reconsider its long-standing policy this year, a few have asked us to consider the bona fides of particular candidates as proof they deserve to be seated. As a neutral body, the RBCA board will never assume the role of determining who gets seated based on whether a particular individual has received endorsements or is perceived to be a “serious” or “legitimate” candidate.
To be clear, the RBCA board does not and has not supported, promoted, or endorsed any candidate in this or any other election. After careful consideration, we have chosen to stick to our established, neutral policy. The RBCA board further wishes the best of luck to all candidates in the November election.
Sheri Ashleman
Information Officer
Richmond Beach Community Association Board
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