Reflections from the Chair

Putnam Barber - Chairman of the Municipal League

 Elected officials will tell you that they’re “accountable at the polls on election day.” The Municipal League works to make sure that’s true through the candidate evaluation process. The League’s Candidate Evaluation Committees look at candidates countywide, seeking the strengths they will bring into leadership roles, if elected. Then we sum everything up in published ratings—from “Outstanding” (the one we love to give), to “Not Qualified” for people whose record suggests they would be unable to do the job.

 Much that affects the strength of our communities happens between elections, though. Even the best elected officials can miss things that deserve greater attention. The Muni League presses for accountability all year round.  Our volunteers scan issues of possible civic concern, hold informal conversations with officials and others, then – sometimes – recommend to the Board that further study is chartered. For example, committees are now working on exploring available opportunities for the Port of Seattle and finding ways to improve coordination among central Puget Sound governments. These efforts are all aimed to support and champion the cause of civic accountability in King County communities.

 Accountability has its rewards, and through our Civic Awards, the Municipal League gives recognition to citizens, elected officials and others who have made outstanding contributions to our quality of life. Nominations are currently invited for the 2004 awards, to be presented May 27 at a luncheon ceremony.

 If you would like to volunteer for the Candidate Evaluation Committee or the Civic Awards, leave a message at the League office at 206-622-8333 or send an email to muniweb@munileague.org.

 Remember, it’s your Municipal League.  If you have ideas about our work, we want to hear from you. You can email me directly at chair@munileague.org or call the office.