Several factual inaccuracies are in Mr. Beckley’s note.

Firstly, he stated the ballot initiative was not binding. Ballot initiatives are citizen law making processes. After County Auditors confirm signatures and issue a certificate of sufficiency to validate an initiative petition, the remedy as outlined by the RCWs states: Either the council will propose an ordinance to reflect the intent of the ballot measure, or call for and authorize a special election.

Nowhere does it state city attorneys can put forward an opinion and/or that council can debate if it’s a good idea. Only the judiciary can decide if it’s unconstitutional.

Secondly, democratic processes are inclusive – a small majority of the council, administration and mayor have: (1) by their intention to move the library location and (2) by not being a voice for the residents of Renton, who repeatedly expressed the importance of retaining the library’s current, size and entrance, denied citizens this right.

He asserts all involved parties are “listening.” The modus operandi of the three above mentioned parties have been listening without hearing; the result has been poor communication and responsiveness,

Mr. Beckley claims expert status and to have a comprehensive understanding of the history and processes relating to the library. This claim is flimsy and questionable. He has been to only one meeting (stated), and his knowledge does not include issues related to construction, architecture, billing and finance.

Many problems have arisen resulting from hidden agendas and wording in the contract between the city and KCLS, and the latter’s refusal to negotiate changes.  Wording such as ‘….two NEW libraries’ (Focus on the Big 5 site), and the amount of money set aside.

Renton residents continued involvement is due to the lack of procedural transparency and apparent dismissal of well documented citizen input about the future of this well used and valued community resource.

Nicola Robinson,
Renton

Editor’s Note – The August 2012 ballot measure was not a legally binding ballot initiative. The city and KCLS could have legally ignored the results of the vote.