Public servants must be sure they have time to serve public
That is something to consider this week as it is the filing period for a host of local offices, including several school boards and city councils.
It’s difficult to run for public office, and it’s usually tougher to serve.
Drivers can save $124 by putting down cellphones
Later this month law enforcement agencies will be targeting those who use electronic devices while driving. The fine is $124.
Washington state routinely leads the nation in seat-belt use.
Focus in Olympia must be on budget
State lawmakers were back in Olympia on Monday for a 30-day overtime session after failing to approve a state budget.
Automatic voter registration goes too far
Voting should be encouraged. Government should not create obstacles to registering to vote. In fact, government should make it a simple, easy process to cast a ballot.
Elections for local offices shape future of community
What happens in the White House or Congress or the state Legislature is important.
Rescinding Rose Street vote is will of the people
Rose Street will be repaved and remain a four-lane road. Representative democracy works.
Clouds are gone and balloons ready to soar
The past few springs, rain and wind made it feel as if winter were never going to end.
Boosting salary for county elected officials reasonable, yet also risky
Commissioners might have gone too far in granting 6 percent raises, but did so knowing the possible political peril.
In agreeing to thaw the salaries for Walla Walla County’s elected officials frozen since 2012, the three commissioners might be stepping on some thin ice — politically speaking.
Resignation of School Board member not personnel matter
The chief executive of a government entity, such as a school district’s superintendent, answers to elected directors who sit on a school board. And the school board members answer to the public — the voters.
Initiative on gun- owner checks should be vetted
Unintended consequences could have huge ramifications when dealing with buying and selling firearms.
The debate on the complicated issue of expanding background checks for gun sales in Washington state has been lively. That’s as it should be.
