Big Wins for Accountability, Improved Government Efficiency & Transparency in Whatcom County
When we shared our comprehensive voters guide to the 12 Charter amendments in October, our goal was to make it easier to understand what was on your ballot and why these once-a-decade proposals matter. Thanks to strong voter engagement, Whatcom County saw clear and encouraging results. Every one of the seven amendments we took a position on passed or failed exactly as we recommended, with most receiving overwhelming support. That’s a big win for informed, community-driven decision-making.
Approved by Voters (Supported by Future 42):
- Prop 3 – Implementing Performance Audits: 85.36%
- Prop 7 – Protecting Citizen Initiatives: 60.8%
- Prop 8 – Budget Process Improvements: 93.42%
- Prop 9 – Financial Reporting Accountability: 93.38%
- Prop 12 – Adds Housing/Land Supply Analysis to Land-use Decisions: 86.97%
Rejected by Voters (Opposed by Future 42):
- Prop 2 – Creates Independent Ombuds Office for Government Oversight : 50.9%
- Prop 11 – Changing Signature Requirements for Charter Amendments: 59.05%
These results show that voters took the time to weigh each amendment and support the measures that strengthen accountability, transparency, and practical governance in Whatcom County. Your involvement truly made a difference, and it’s encouraging to see such broad agreement across the community.
What Comes Next
The approved amendments will now be added to our Whatcom County Home Rule Charter, and we will make sure they are implemented as intended and keep you updated as part of our plans for 2026.
Thank you for staying informed, sharing the information with others, and showing up in a way that strengthens our county’s future. Your engagement matters, and it paid off.