Whatcom County Initiative Heads to Division One Court of Appeals
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2025
Bellingham, WA – The fight to repeal Proposition 5 continues as the Washington State Supreme Court has transferred the case to the Division One Court of Appeals, ensuring a new opportunity to overturn the Whatcom County Superior Court’s decision that kept the initiative off the ballot. The bottom line is that the case is proceeding, and we will have our day in court!
“While we hoped for immediate review by the state Supreme Court, we’re confident that this appellate review will advance our efforts to let voters decide,” said Tim Koetje, who leads the initiative effort with Washingtonians for a Sound Economy.
The initiative, supported by nearly 10,000 signatures, seeks to repeal Proposition 5—a narrow 2022 property tax hike that increases burdens on families, seniors, renters, and those on fixed incomes without solving the problems it promised to address. Reinstating the property tax limit would bring much-needed relief to Whatcom County residents.
Supporters argue that the trial court’s ruling ignored established legal precedent and procedural fairness. The appellate court’s review could place the initiative back on a future ballot. If necessary, the case can also be appealed again to the state Supreme Court.
“The right to legislate by initiative is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Ashley Butenschoen, with Washingtonians for a Sound Economy. “This legal challenge isn’t just about taxes—it’s about defending the people’s voice and ensuring our government remains accountable to its citizens.”
Media Contact:
Ashley Butenschoen
360-224-4123
info@soundeconomywa.com