Washington Constitution Article XI - County, City and Township Organization
Here is a summary of Article XI – County, City, and Township Organization of the Washington State Constitution:
Article XI – County, City, and Township Organization
This article defines how counties, cities, towns, and townships in Washington State are organized and governed. It establishes local autonomy, government structure, and powers.
Key Sections & Provisions:
§1 – County Boundaries:
No new county can be formed with a population of fewer than 4,000 people.
County boundaries cannot change without approval from the voters in the affected areas.
§2 – County Government:
Each county must have a board of county commissioners or an alternative form of county government as allowed by law.
§3 – County Seats:
The location of a county seat can only be moved by a majority vote of county residents.
§4 – Township Organization:
The legislature may allow any county to adopt a township form of government by popular vote.
§5 – Removal of County Officers:
County officers can be removed for misconduct according to legal procedures.
§6 – Charters for County Government:
Counties with populations over 300,000 may adopt a home rule charter.
The charter must be approved by voters and can provide for a legislative authority and executive elected by the people.
§7 – Home Rule for Cities and Towns:
Cities and towns may adopt charters to govern themselves (home rule), with powers to make local laws not inconsistent with the state constitution or general laws.
§8 – Police Powers of Cities:
Cities with charters have full police powers within their jurisdiction unless limited by the constitution or state law.
§9 – Classification of Municipal Corporations:
Municipal corporations (like cities and towns) may be classified by law based on population or other criteria for governance purposes.
§10 – Incorporation of Municipalities:
The legislature must provide a general law for how cities and towns are incorporated, instead of by special acts.
Purpose:
Article XI emphasizes local self-government, the flexibility to adopt charters, and establishes checks and democratic control over local governance, including boundaries, powers, and forms of government.
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