BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Local residents are being asked to give feedback on 12 proposed amendments to the Whatcom County Charter.

The county council is seeking volunteers to write pro and con statements on the potential changes for the November General Election ballot.

One proposed amendment would create an “Office of the Ombuds” to investigate any complaints or inquiries about county government.

Another looks to increase the number of signatures required for the public to place a referendum on the ballot.

The amendments were proposed by members of the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission, which is elected every 10 years to evaluate the county’s powers, structure and election processes.

Anyone interested in writing a pro or con statement for the amendments must apply by July 14.

The Whatcom County Council will appoint up to three members to each pro and con statement writing committee at their meeting on July 22 at 6 p.m. Once appointed, committees have until 4:30 p.m. on August 11 to write and submit their statements.

If you are interested in serving on a committee, please submit your application by Monday, July 14 at 12 p.m. For more information, contact the Council Office at 360-778-5010.