Walla Wallans Hold the Key to a Better Future

The Washington State Constitution has locked Walla Walla County into an outdated system of government that concentrates all legislative and administrative authority in the hands of just three individuals.

Today, the county is facing a budget crisis and significant revenue decline. Yet despite clear warnings in 2024 about a looming shortfall, two of the three officials responsible chose to raise their own pay for their part-time position 24.5%—bringing their salaries to $114,000 a year plus benefits.

Since the start of COVID, County Commissioners have doubled their own compensation.

The good news is we have the key to the lock, we don’t have to keep this 19th century form of government in the 21st century.

We have the key we just have to use it. By adopting a county charter—a modern “constitution” for local governance—we can create a system that better reflects today’s needs and restores accountability to the people of Walla Walla County.

-Tom Schmerer