Critics Warn New Oversight Measures Could Increase Costs

The Pierce County Charter Review Commission is considering a series of controversial amendments that could reshape county government, including a proposal to change the sheriff from an elected to an appointed position. The commission could decide as early as this week which proposals will advance to the November ballot. Proposal C1 would allow the Pierce County executive to appoint the sheriff while establishing qualification requirements similar to those outlined in Senate Bill 5974, a state law currently on hold following legal challenges. The proposal has generated significant public opposition, with many residents arguing voters should continue to directly elect their sheriff. Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank says he plans to attend Monday's meeting and argues the proposals are directed at both the office of sheriff and his leadership. The commission is also considering amendments related to an ombudsman position and changes to non-discrimination language within the county charter. Any proposal approved by the commission would still require voter approval in November. #PierceCounty #KeithSwank #Sheriff #PublicSafety #WashingtonPolitics #Election2026 #LocalGovernment #GovernmentAccountability #Tacoma #VoterRights #CharterReviewCommission #WashingtonState #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare #PierceCountySheriff