County Finalizes Committees for August Parks Levy Lid-Lift Campaign
Established “for and against” committees will now seek support with the upcoming ballot measure.
JEFFERSON COUNTY, WA — In a brief special meeting on Friday, May 1, the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners formally appointed the "for" and "against" committees for the upcoming August 4 parks levy measure, meeting the state-mandated deadline. The move sets the stage for a public campaign on a proposal that officials say will determine the future stability of local parks and recreation services.
The board appointed Devon Buckham and Nat Jacob to the committee advocating for the levy's approval. Shellie Yarnell was appointed to represent the committee opposing the measure. Under Washington law (RCW 29A.32.280), each committee is limited to three members who must live within county boundaries.
The measure on the ballot
The assignment of committees finalizes the procedural step for a 21-cent levy lid lift that commissioners placed on the August primary ballot in late April. If approved by voters, the six-year measure would increase property taxes by 21 cents per $1,000 of assessed value.
County officials have stated the levy would create a dedicated revenue stream for over 20 county-owned park facilities, recreation programs, youth sports, fairgrounds operations, 4-H services and community centers. According to Parks and Recreation Manager Matt Tyler, the measure would provide "steady funding" for the first time, allowing the department to stabilize operations and continue pursuing grants. He noted it is "not an enhancement," but would lead to incremental improvements in services.
The decision followed internal debate, with some officials concerned that a higher tax rate could reduce voter support, while others argued that funding popular priorities like the Fairgrounds and 4-H would strengthen the measure's appeal.
Two sides of the ballot
Following the meeting, both appointees offered sharply contrasting views on the measure to the Beacon.
Buckham voiced strong support for the levy, emphasizing community involvement. "I appreciate the opportunity to help voters learn how this levy will stabilize our parks and rec departments," Buckham said. "Our community was very vocal in wanting the county to maintain these vital spaces, and joining the 'for committee' is one of many ways community members can contribute towards that goal."
Yarnell, however, challenged the very premise of the tax increase, questioning the county's financial priorities. "Why should we be forced to fund non-mandatory expenditures?" Yarnell asked. "The county has known this was coming for some time and has continued to deficit spend."
She further argued for alternative solutions, stating, "I believe they should get their act together, do some real work and make some economic development happen that will increase their tax revenue so they don't first depend on levy lid lifts.”
Committee appointment process
While Friday was the formal deadline for submitting committee names to the Auditor's office, the appointed committees may seek advice from others outside their three-person panel.
"No one is shut out," Commissioner Heather Dudley-Nollette stated. "If you care about this issue on either side, we encourage you to get in touch with the people listed here. Anyone can still grab an oar and start rowing."
The motion to appoint the committees passed unanimously. The next steps include the drafting of a neutral explanatory statement by the county prosecutor's office, followed by official arguments and rebuttals from the newly appointed "pro" and "con" committees for the August primary voters' pamphlet.
To help support the measure, contact Devon Buckham at Devonbuckham@yahoo.com.
To help oppose the measure, contact Shellie Yarnell at Shellieyarnell@gmail.com
