Bow resident urges Skagit County commissioners to publish positions and hold forums, warns of democratic erosion

Rebecca Peck of Bow told the Skagit County Board of Commissioners during the Sept. 23 public comment period that residents need clearer communication from elected officials and greater opportunities for residents to learn where commissioners stand on issues.

Quoting a social-media post, Peck said, "What we're witnessing isn't politics, it's actually authoritarianism wrapped in the American flag. If we accept it as normal, then we normalize it." She said the three-minute public-comment format often feels like "talking to a wall" because commissioners do not respond during the session, and she urged the board to consider monthly forums, a written column or other means to tell residents where they stand on important issues.

Why it matters: Peck framed her remarks as a call for local democratic engagement and accountability. She said she has voted for each of the three commissioners at least once and said residents deserve accessible information about commissioners’ positions, especially in historic times.

Clarifying details: Peck requested the board consider a forum where residents can ask questions and suggested commissioners publish periodic statements on positions. She emphasized that the public-comment protocol includes a three-minute limit with an audible warning at two minutes and a requirement that commissioners not respond during the session.

Ending: The board’s published procedure (reiterated at the start of the session) confirms that commissioners do not respond during public comment and that residents may submit written follow-ups by email or mail.