The Washington County Democrats met at Art Domestique on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. Vice Chairperson Richard Gilmore called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
The minutes of the June meeting were approved and posted to the blog.
Robin Plattenberger-Gilmore presented the treasurer's report with updates to membership fees, donations and the candidate fund. New expenses include payment for parade candy ($100.97) and informational cards for the county fair ($286.43). Ethics are due to the State on July 19.
Report of the Vice Chair:
On July 2nd, the 2nd District Central Committee held a meeting at Art Domestique to vote on new leadership. Sandy Dockendorf is new chairperson. 2nd District has formed four new committees with chairs and all central committee members are to serve on at least one committee.
The 2nd District Central Committee plans to meet at Art Domestique in August.
Old Business:
Fair: The Washington County Democrats will have a booth in the Common Exhibit building, space #26 & 27. It should be the same space as last year. The Committee called for volunteers for set-up on Sunday, July 17, staffing for the booth and tearing it down at the end of the week. Decorations will be created for the booth emphasizing the party's principles. Candy, cowboy cards and water will be provided. JP is getting material from the campaign. Jacob Bruns will help JP with Clinton/Judge signs as well as have absentee ballots available at the table.
Office/headquarters: The committee continues to look at options for a headquarters in Washington for democratic candidates. There was discussion on using an existing business's extra space vs having a separate space for this purpose. Motion to approve an office in Washington with an August 1 or September 1 start date passed with 1 nay. Motion to approve the use of Art Domestique after Labor Day if the schedule allows and pay rent was seconded and passed. Literature/signage will be placed in the windows to indicate party presence.
Parades: The parade at Wellman went well. Motion to approve payment of $40 to Steve Maxon for transporting Gloria to the parades was seconded and passed.
New Business:
Some lively discussion took place regarding support of Hillary Clinton by former Sanders supporters, Jill Stein's (Green Party) candidacy, and support of Patty Judge, Death with Dignity Act, and the possibility of forming a Young Democrats.
The Death with Dignity Act is a burden on physicians and is contrary to the Hippocratic Oath.
JP is working to create a young democrats group together to create a culture of civic engagement and mobilize impetus for change. He is also seeking to engage the Hispanic population.
Committee Reports:
Affirmative Action: Nothing to report.
Candidate Development: Nothing to report.
Community Events: Peter Morrison will take on this position.
Platform Committee: Nothing to report.
The next meeting will occur on Tuesday, August 9, 7:00 pm at Art Domestique.
Motion to adjourn. Adjourned at 8:05.
