PASCO, Wash. – Changes are coming to elections in the Tri-Cities area as the Port of Pasco transitions from at-large elections to by-district voting.
Local officials are optimistic about these changes. They hope to see more engagement in the election process as the Port of Pasco controls significant portions of the city’s industry, including the airport and the big industrial center.
Ana Ruiz Kennedy, chair of the Franklin County Democrats, explained the current and upcoming changes.
In the current system, voters cast ballots for all three commissioner seats during the general election, regardless of their district. However, in the new system, voters will participate in both the primary and general elections only within their district. “I think what the port did is the right thing, and they have a map that is fair and equitable,” said Kennedy.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) supports the change, emphasizing the potential for increased representation. They believe it will encourage more people to run for commissioner positions.
The new system aims to provide more representation for those from the districts. “And the idea is that the people who will be running for these positions, these people that now has to make an effort to get to know their community,” said a representative from LULAC, Gustavo
Although many local elected official positions offer little to no salary, the commitment to public service remains strong. “They get paid with, you know, coffee and donuts. That’s their pay,” said a local official. Yet, the drive to serve the public and engage in democracy persists. The first election under this new system is set for 2026.
