Shoreline Aquatics Center Ballot Measure Needs Pro-Con Volunteers

SHORELINE, WA — The City Council has not made a final decision whether to ask voters to approve an $88.1 million aquatics center bond measure — but the city is already looking for volunteers to write pro and con statements for the November ballot.

The $88.1 proposed aquatic center would be located at 17828 Midvale Ave. North and include an eight-lane lap pool, room for 500 spectators, and a 6,000 square-foot community space. There would also be two gyms, an exercise room and jogging track, and rooms for classes and to rent, according to city plans. The city is also considering using some bond revenue for parks upgrades.

At the June 24 meeting, the Council indicated its intention to put the measure on the November ballot. But a final vote won't happen until July 29.

Here's more on the need for pro and con writers for the ballot statement from a city press release:

Accompanying the November ballots will be the King County Voters’ Pamphlet. The pamphlet will include an explanatory statement from the City that states the effect of a bond measure if approved. In response will be statements in support and opposition to the ballot measure. State law requires the City Council to appoint two committees to draft the pro and con statements. The committees can have no more than three members each; however, the committees may seek advice from any person or persons. The committees will also have an opportunity to write a rebuttal statement to the other side’s statement.

Individuals interested in applying for one of the committee positions can fill out an online application. Applications are due by August 2 at 10:00 a.m. The City Council will review the applications and appoint the committee members at its August 5 business meeting.

To learn more about the requirements for the voter’s pamphlet and the duties of the pro and con committees, review the 2019 Jurisdiction Manual at King County Elections.

If you prefer to fill out a paper ballot, you can download them below or pick one up from the Clerk’s Office at City Hall.