Tuesday, August 5 is Primary Election Day. Here are some of the ballots that will be tracked live by NonStop Local.
In Benton County, Fire District 1’s Proposition 1 aims to return the property tax levy to its usual $1.50 per $1,000 of property valuation. The funds would support fire departments within the district and allow for an annual 6% tax increase until 2030.
In Franklin County, the mayoral race in Connell is a key focus. The four-year office race features incumbent Shelly Harper against challengers Irineo Salas and Patricia Barrera.
Voters can find more information about these candidates, including their personal statements, here.
Walla Walla County is considering Proposition 1, which proposes a 0.2% sales tax increase to fund emergency and first responder systems and facilities.
In Yakima County, the race for County Coroner is drawing attention as Marshall Slight, who has been serving as interim coroner since April following Jim Curtice’s resignation, faces off against Dan Williams, a funeral director from Selah.
The coroner’s role is crucial as it involves overseeing homicide autopsies and investigating deaths deemed unattended and unnatural.
The city of Mabton is also preparing for its mayoral election. Incumbent Rachel Ruelas, who recently appealed two recall attempts, is competing against former Mabton Mayor Laura Vasquez.
In Kittitas County, voters will decide on two propositions related to funding for public services.
One proposal seeks to restore the levy for District 7’s Fire Department Infrastructure and Services, increasing it from $1.12 per $1,000 to $1.25 per $1,000.
The other proposition involves a 0.75 percent property tax aimed at improving services and infrastructure for the county’s public hospitals. The current levy for the public hospital has dwindled to just 14 cents per $1,000 in 2025, prompting this proposal.
Live election updates will be aired tomorrow, August 5.
