Walla Walla County is growing, changing, and facing new challenges that our current government structure—set in place generations ago—was never designed to handle. By adopting a home rule charter, voters can take control of how our county government is organized, ensure fairer representation for all communities, and build a government that works better for the people it serves.
What Is a Home Rule Charter?
Under the Washington State Constitution, counties have the right to adopt a home rule charter—a kind of “local constitution” that allows us to design a government tailored to our needs. Instead of being locked into the one-size-fits-all model created in the 1800s, Walla Walla voters can choose how many commissioners or councilmembers we have, how they are elected, and what powers local officials should hold.
Why Start the Process Now?
1. Fair Representation for Every Community
Today, Walla Walla County’s government is run by three county commissioners elected at-large. This means that while they represent the whole county, communities like Burbank and Waitsburg often lack a meaningful voice in county decisions. A home rule charter would allow us to create district-based representation, ensuring every corner of the county has a seat at the table.
2. Modernize Our Government
Our current system was designed more than a century ago, when the county was smaller and simpler. Today, with over 60,000 residents, a more complex economy, and diverse communities, we need a structure that matches the scale of our challenges. A charter lets us build a government that is efficient, transparent, and accountable to modern needs.
3. Local Control, Local Solutions
A home rule charter does not come from Olympia—it comes from us. Voters elect a group of freeholders (local residents) to draft the charter. That draft is published, debated, and ultimately submitted to the people for approval. Nothing becomes law unless the voters of Walla Walla County say yes. This is government by the people, for the people.
4. Flexibility for the Future
A charter gives us options. For example, we can decide whether to keep a three-member commission or expand to a larger council, whether to elect an executive, and whether certain county positions should remain elected or become appointed professionals. This flexibility ensures our county can adapt over time as our population grows and needs change.
5. A Stronger, More Inclusive Voice
From College Place to Touchet, from Prescott to Walla Walla city itself, every community has unique concerns. A charter ensures that no single area dominates the conversation and that all residents have a fair shot at representation in county decision-making.
What’s Next?
Beginning the charter process doesn’t lock us into a specific outcome—it simply gives us the chance to design and vote on a structure that works better for Walla Walla County. First, we must gather enough signatures to put the question on the ballot. Then, if approved, voters will elect freeholders to draft the proposed charter. Finally, we all decide whether to adopt it.
This is about taking responsibility for our future. Walla Walla County deserves a government that reflects its size, diversity, and potential. By supporting the home rule charter process, we’re not just voting for a new structure—we’re voting for fair representation, stronger communities, and a government that works for everyone.
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