Chapter 2.64
INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM

Sections:

2.64.010    Powers of initiative and referendum adopted.

2.64.020    Statutory procedures.

2.64.030    General ordinance defined.

2.64.040    Effective date of general ordinances.

2.64.050    Ordinances not subject to initiative and referendum.

2.64.060    Restriction of or abandonment of powers.

2.64.010 Powers of initiative and referendum adopted.

The city council adopts the power of initiative and referendum for the qualified electors of the city as provided pursuant to RCW 35A.11.080 through 35A.11.100. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023; Ord. 969 § 1, 2003).

2.64.020 Statutory procedures.

The powers of initiative and referendum adopted in BLMC 2.64.010 are to be exercised as set forth in RCW 35A.11.080 through 35A.11.100 as they now exist or may be amended from time to time, and which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in full. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023).

2.64.030 General ordinance defined.

For the purposes of this chapter and this chapter only, a “general ordinance” is defined as an ordinance of general application throughout the city. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023).

2.64.040 Effective date of general ordinances.

General ordinances of the city shall not go into effect before 30 days from the time of final passage and are subject to referendum during that period. This clause shall not apply to ordinances exempted by BLMC 2.64.050. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023).

2.64.050 Ordinances not subject to initiative and referendum.

A. Ordinances of the city which shall not be subject to the powers of initiative and referendum and which shall become effective five days following their passage and legal publication are as follows:

1. Ordinances initiated by petition;

2. Ordinances providing for local improvement districts;

3. Ordinances appropriating money;

4. Ordinances providing for or approving collective bargaining;

5. Ordinances providing for the compensation of or working conditions of city employees;

6. Ordinances authorizing or repealing the levy of taxes; and

7. Ordinances exempted now or hereafter by the Washington Legislature or Washington Courts from the powers of initiative and referendum, including, but not limited to:

a. Ordinances which are administrative in nature; and

b. Ordinances adopted under power(s) granted by the Washington Legislature and Washington Courts to the city council, as the legislative body for the city, including but not limited to:

i. Zoning regulations, critical areas regulations, and comprehensive plan amendments adopted pursuant to the Growth Management Act, Chapter 36.7A RCW;

ii. Ordinances adopting the use and operation of automated traffic safety cameras;

iii. Ordinances adopting annexations;

iv. Ordinances issuing revenue bonds; and

v. Ordinances establishing a transportation benefit district;

B. Ordinances of the city which shall not be subject to the powers of initiative and referendum and which shall become effective immediately upon their passage are as follows:

1. Emergency Ordinances. Ordinances necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety or for the support of city government and its existing public institutions which contain a statement of urgency and are passed by unanimous vote of the council. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023).

2.64.060 Restriction of or abandonment of powers.

A. The exercise of initiative and referendum powers may be restricted or abandoned as set forth in RCW 35A.11.080, which is incorporated by reference as if set forth in full. (Ord. 1709 § 9, 2023).