Eyman wants to talk to city, county about new initiative

YAKIMA, Wash. — Anti-tax initiative guru and Yakima native Tim Eyman is asking the Yakima City Council and county commissioners for an audience on his latest ballot measure.

No date has been set, but city and county officials say it probably won't be a problem.

It was a problem in December 2007, when Mayor Dave Edler booted Eyman from a council meeting after Eyman began a rant against then-Councilman Ron Bonlender.

The council did allow Eyman back, without incident, nearly a year later to discuss his 2008 initiative.

Councilman Rick Ensey said Monday he doesn't see why this year would be any different, as Eyman seeks to publicize his Initiative 1033, which seeks to cap the amount of money flowing into the general checking accounts of state, county and city governments, tying revenue increases to the rate of inflation plus population growth.

The council will hear him out but won't endorse the measure either way, Ensey said.

Edler said it wouldn't surprise him either if the council decides to let Eyman have his say.

"The request is there, and there will be a discussion around the horseshoe on this," Edler said referring to the table City Council members sit on.

The county commissioners will also allow him to make a presentation.

"I'd welcome him to do it," Commissioner Kevin Bouchey said. "It will be on the ballot, so the better information voters get the better they can make a decision."

Commissioner Mike Leita concurred, saying Eyman can make use of the county's public comment period during its weekly meetings.

"This (initiative) does clearly involve Yakima County taxpayers," Leita said. "So, in that context, he can come to the commissioners and make a presentation like anyone can."