Issuu

Yakima County Official Local

Voters’ Pa m p h le t General Election November 3 ballots are mailed starting October 13

2026 www.yakimacounty.us/vote

Yakima County Elections Division

509.574.1340 or 1.800.833.0569 iVote@co.yakima.wa.us

A message from Yakima County Elections Democracy doesn’t work without you. And it’s never been easier for you to participate. If you aren’t registered now, you can visit us and register and vote on election day. If you are already registered, a ballot packet is automatically being prepared and mailed to you. You don’t even have to try to find a stamp to return your ballot -- postage is free or you can use the 24/7 drop box in your community. We are here to make sure that every eligible person has an equal opportunity to register and vote. Your vote is your voice so let your voice be heard and vote! The team at Yakima County Elections takes great pride in conducting transparent elections according to state and federal law. Get your information right from the source and come visit us to watch and learn about the path your ballot takes to be counted.

About this guide Submissions to this guide are not proofed for accuracy or fact, and are not corrected for errors in spelling or punctuation. The content of ballot measure explanatory statements, “for” or “against” statements and rebuttal statements are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not represent the position of the Auditor’s Office, Election Division, or Yakima County.

Questions? Contact us Yakima County Elections Division 128 N 2nd St Rm 117 PO Box 12570 Yakima WA 98909

509.574.1340 or 1.800.833.0569 iVote@co.yakima.wa.us

How to register and vote If you need to register to vote or update your registration, visit VoteWA.gov or contact us: www.yakimacounty.us/vote

509.574.1340 or 1.800.833.0569

iVote@co.yakima.wa.us

Is it after October 26? Please contact our office on how to get registered, update your address, or get a ballot.

#FutureVoter If you are 16 or 17 you can sign up as a Future Voter and you’ll automatically be registered when you turn 18.

How to vote If you are already registered to vote, your ballot will be mailed no later than October 16 to the address you gave us for your voter registration. If you need a replacement ballot, contact us. Return your ballot early by mail, no stamp needed. Your ballot must be postmarked no later than election day to count. If you are mailing your ballot after October 27, we recommend using an official ballot drop box to make sure it's on time.

Vote your ballot and sign your return envelope. No one can sign for you.

Return your ballot to an official ballot drop box. Drop boxes are open until 8 p.m. on November 3, election day.

If you cannot personally return your ballot, only let people you trust deliver it for you. Check the status of your ballot on VoteWA.gov to see if we received your ballot.

We will contact you if: • your signature is missing • your signature doesn’t match your voter registration record

Accessible voting options Visit VoteWA.gov to access your ballot online or visit a voting center to use a voting unit that is designed for use with tactile switches, sip-and-puff devices or headphones. 3

Your ballot signature matters Your signature is part of your vote! Make sure it counts.

Signature Required. Your signature is needed to make sure your ballot gets counted.

Signature Verification. Your signature, whether in print or cursive, is compared to the signatures we have in your voter registration record. Trained election officials verify each and every signature.

Action Required. If the signature on your ballot isn't similar to a signature in your voter registration record or if your signature is missing, don't worry. You can still "cure" your ballot so it counts. We will contact you by mail, phone, email, and text.

The Power of Your Signature. Your signature validates your ballot, your choices, and your participation in the democratic process.

Tips for making sure it counts. • If you registered online, check the signature on your driver's license or ID. That's the signature we're using to compare to your ballot signature. • Your signature doesn't need to be written in cursive or even be legible. It just needs to match what we already have on file for you. • If you aren't sure what signature you might have used, before you vote, send us a signature update form and we'll update your record. Visit www.yakimacounty.us/vote or give us a call.

What’s inside Statewide ballot measures and candidate statements for the offices listed below can be found in the pamphlet mailed by the Secretary of State's Office.

This guide has information for all measures that are on the ballot for this election in Yakima County. Your ballot will only have the candidates and measures that you are eligible to vote on based on the address where you are registered to vote.

State Legislative Offices Legislative District 14 Representatives �� 9-10 Legislative District 15 Senator ��11 Representatives �� 12-13 www.sos.wa.gov

initiative to the People Initiative Measure No. IP26-645 Initiatives to the Legislature Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 Initiative Measure No. IL26-638 Federal Offices Congressional District 4, U.S. Representative Judicial Offices State Supreme Court Court of Appeals

County Offices Assessor �� 15 Auditor �� 17 Clerk �� 19 Coroner �� 21 Prosecuting Attorney �� 23 Sheriff �� 25 Treasurer �� 27 Commissioner, District 1 �� 29 Judicial Offices District Court �� 31-32

Who donates to campaigns?

for federal candidates: Federal Election Commission www.fec.gov 1-800-424-9530

for all other candidates and ballot measures: Public Disclosure Commission www.pdc.wa.gov 1-877-601-2828

State Senators and Representatives Duties

Qualifications

Legislators introduce bills during each session that affect public policy. Public hearings are held, issues are debated, and votes are taken. Bills that pass both houses of the Legislature are sent to the Governor for signature. They provide for the levy and collection of taxes and other revenue to support state government and appropriate funds to local governments. The Senate has the exclusive power to confirm certain gubernatorial appointments. The House has the exclusive power to bring impeachment proceedings.

Candidates must be qualified voters in the legislative district from which they are chosen.

Senators serve a four year term, and representatives serve two years.

U.S. Constitution, Article 11, Section 7

Legislative District 14 Representative, Position 1

Gloria Mendoza

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Member of Washington State House of Representatives, 2 years. Mayor of the City of Grandview, 5 years. Member Grandview City Council, 3 years.

end of contest

Chelsea Dimas

(Prefers Democratic Party)

Elected Experience Current Precinct Committee Officer-Democratic Party

Other Professional Experience Other Professional Experience: GMC Companies, LLC. Founder and CEO (25 years). We provide vocational training to individuals, especially agriculture workers, and public and private organizations.

Other Professional Experience With more than a decade in both the public and private sectors—plus fluency in English and Spanish, Chelsea's expertise will help when addressing our community's needs. Her experience includes: Civil Survival, Washington State House of Representatives, Toppenish School District, and Habitat for Humanity.

Education Education: Graduated from Grandview High School and Yakima Valley Community College.

Education Bachelor of Fine Arts, Pacific Lutheran University; Associate of Arts, Yakima Valley College; Diploma, Sunnyside High School

Community Service Community Service: As a Rotary Club member, Gloria has helped raise money for student scholarships, senior activities and community days’ events. She has been Grandview’s economic development liaison to new businesses and housing developers. Church volunteer.

Community Service Commissioner, WA State Human Rights Commission; Commissioner, WA State Commission on Hispanic Affairs; DEI Committee Member, Sunnyside School District; Volunteer, United Farm Workers; Former Board Director, Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Statement Gloria is a proven conservative leader who has served as Grandview’s Mayor, Council member, and now as the Representative for the 14th District. A former farmworker, business owner and mom, Gloria understands the values and challenges of working families and is committed to supporting our agricultural economy and strengthening our communities. During her first term in Olympia, Gloria fought to protect individual rights, defend family values, oppose new taxes and burdensome regulations, and support small businesses. She remains committed to upholding the Constitution, including the Second Amendment and religious freedom. She will continue to be a strong voice in Olympia.

Statement Raised by immigrant farmworkers in the Yakima Valley, Chelsea knows the sacrifices working families make every day. She believes no one should choose between paying rent, buying groceries, or accessing healthcare. As your State Representative, Chelsea will fight to lower costs for working families, protect workers and small businesses, invest in public education and universal childcare, and keep our neighborhoods safe and healthy. She’ll be a strong voice in Olympia who puts la gente (the people) first and will echarle ganas (work hard) for a future where we can all afford to live and dream right here in the 14th.

Contact (509) 830-4935; gloria@votegloria.com; votegloria.com

Contact (509) 305-6921; info@chelseaforwa.com; chelseaforwa.com

Legislative District 14 Representative, Position 2

Deb Manjarrez

(Prefers Republican Party)

end of contest

Ezequiel Morfin

(Prefers Democratic Party)

Elected Experience Washington State House of Representatives, 2 years. Yakima County Republican precinct committee officer, 16 years.

Elected Experience Toppenish City Council Councilman. Toppenish Planning Commissioner, Board Member.

Other Professional Experience Deb is the managing partner at Manjarrez and DeLeon PS, a CPA firm; treasurer of M&M Orchards, Inc; and a registered representative of Farmers Financial Services, LLC.

Other Professional Experience Small Business Owner. Chief Electrical Inspector, Yakama Nation. Electrical Journeyman, Wapato Housing Authority. Electrical Foreman Berg Electric. Union Internship AFL-CIO Teamsters. Can Am Millwork, Supervisor. Western RV Trailers, Leadman Supervisor.

Education Deb graduated from Wapato High School and Central Washington University, with a BA in Accounting. Community Service Deb was chairman of the Wapato Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, board member and chairman of the Republican Central Committee for 8 years, and founder and chairman of the Wapato Tamale Festival for 8 years. Statement Deb Manjarrez cares about her community. She is a certified public accountant, apple orchardist and active community volunteer who has lived all her life near Wapato. She comes from a 4th generation farming family and understands the meaning of hard work. Deb Manjarrez wants to continue to represent you in Olympia. Her business and accounting background qualifies her to fight runaway government spending and protect local agriculture interests. Deb and her husband, Mark, have been married for 40 years. They have two daughters and four grandchildren. Contact (509) 949-4268; deb@yesfordeb.com; yesfordeb.com

Education Toppenish High School. Yakima Valley College, Combined Associates Degree with Electrical Technology. Perry Technical Institute, Electrical Certificate. Community Service Toppenish Community Safety Network, Board Member. Radio KDNA, Member. Yakima May 1st Coalition, Member. Yakima Immigration Response Network. Latino Civic Alliance Votes, Regional Organizer. Washington State Farmworkers Union Representative, Board Member,Treasurer, Secretary. League of United American Citizens, Vice President. Statement These are challenging times for families from Yakima to Pasco and many are facing financial hardships. The cost of gas, groceries, and every day life is out of control. Families in our communities are living in fear of this federal administration and their unconstitutional attacks against our neighbors. That's not the Central Washington we want to believe in. I’m running for State Representative to fight for truly affordable housing, family-wage jobs, and to take on a system that’s failing us. Endorsements: Yakima, Franklin and Benton County Democrats, Labor Unions, and many more. I respectfully ask for your vote. Thank you. Contact (509) 833-8838; info@electmorfin.com; www.electmorfin.com

Legislative District 15 end of contest

Senator

Jeremie Dufault

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Washington State House of Representatives. Selah City Council. Other Professional Experience Commercial real estate investments. Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Reserve, JAG Corps. Education A.C. Davis High School. University of Pennsylvania (BA). Harvard Law School (JD). Community Service Yakima County Veterans Board. Yakima Valley Technical School (YV-Tech) Board. Yakima County Economic Development Board. American Legion. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Statement Jeremie is a common-sense conservative who stands for political and economic freedom. He fights for lower taxes and smaller, smarter government. He works to provide opportunities for those who can, and assistance for those who can’t. Jeremie comes from a Yakima Valley farming family. He grew up in Yakima and lives in Selah with his daughters, Ellie, Lulu and Addy. He is a military veteran who served in Kuwait and Afghanistan. Jeremie has a proven record of delivering results in Olympia. Let’s keep him working for us. Contact (509) 902-2344; dufaultcampaign@gmail.com; www.electjeremie.com

Legislative District 15 Representative, Position 1

Chris Corry

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience 14th District State Representative, 2019-2024. 15th District State Representative 2025-Current. Appropriations, Consumer Protection & Business Committees. Deputy Leader, House Republican Caucus. Other Professional Experience 15+ years in the property & casualty insurance industry. Eastern Washington Director, Washington Policy Center Education University of Washington, B.A. Political Science Community Service Yakima County Crime Stoppers - Board Member; Central Washington State Fair Association - Board Member; Yakima Salvation Army - Advisory Board Member; Yakima Southwest Rotary; Life Choices of Yakima; Foster & Adoptive Parent Statement Chris Corry believes in advocating for the families and businesses of Central Washington with common sense legislation that focuses on economic growth and protecting our most vulnerable. A vote for Chris is a vote for limited government that is fiscally responsible, upholding our Constitutional rights, parental rights, reducing tax burdens and regulations on businesses and families, and increasing local control for our schools! “It has been an honor to serve the people of our district and be a voice for Central Washington. I hope to earn your vote this election and continue representing our shared values in Olympia.”-Chris Contact (509) 654-3351; chris@chriscorry.com; chriscorry.com

end of contest

Jack McEntire

(Prefers Democratic Party)

Elected Experience President Cascade Chainsaw Sculptors Guild, Precinct Committee Officer, Delegate Washington State Democrats Convention, Vice-Chairman Yakima County Democrats. Other Professional Experience Fruit picker, Laborer, Sculptor, Owner/operator Cascade Carvings (using salvaged wood) Partner Sculptures in Stone LLC, Smokey Bear Licensee (US Department of Agriculture), Cascade Chainsaw Sculptors Guild Board, Yakima Maker Space Teacher/Board, Yakima Art Commission Board. Education Holy Family elementary, Whitney elementary, Wilson Jr. High, Graduate Eisenhower H.S., Bachelor of Science degree Microbiology and Immunology University of Washington. Community Service Volunteer University District Food Bank, Donor: Selah Little League, American Cancer Society, Make a Wish Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Community Seeds, Yakima Veterans Coalition. Statement The future is found in our kids, the present is up to us. For years we’ve had no choice for our representatives. We’ve seen the same faces and ideas. They’ve said: If the rich get richer so will we – this hasn’t happened. If we elect the same people things will continue as they have. We need youth programs that teach skills. We deserve universal health care. Education, college or vocational school, should be based on ability and need, not money. Science and ability to Compromise are required. Investment in our future is the way to transform our home. Contact (509) 307-2768; avoteforjack@gmail.com; avoteforjack.com

Legislative District 15 Representative, Position 2

Reedy Berg

(Prefers Republican Party)

end of contest

Liz Hallock

(Prefers No Kings Party)

Elected Experience Yakima City Council, District 7, 2024-Present; serving as Deputy Mayor beginning in 2026

Elected Experience 2016 County Convention Bernie Sanders delegate, Democratic Party PCO.

Other Professional Experience 8th Grade U.S. History Teacher, Toppenish Middle School, 2016-Present; 8th Grade PLC Lead, Toppenish Middle School, 2022-Present; Agricultural Produce Broker, Northwest Brokerage Services, 2013-2015

Other Professional Experience Family Lawyer, Public Disclosure and Open Government Attorney, owned one of the first legal marijuana stores in the United States, rock climbing instructor.

Education Master of Arts in Teaching, Heritage University; Bachelor of Arts, Sports Management, Gonzaga University

Education M.A. George Washington University, Elliott School of International Affairs, Security Policy Studies.B.A. Princeton University.

Community Service Active in the community as a Little League Baseball coach and Habitat for Humanity volunteer.

Community Service Youth sports coach (tennis, basketball, soccer, softball), volunteer lawyer, volunteer yoga instructor.

Statement I grew up here, farmed here, and taught Valley kids for a decade. That experience shaped everything I stand for. As Deputy Mayor of Yakima, I've stood for fiscal responsibility, public safety, and protecting our agriculture and small businesses. Olympia keeps hurting our farmers, families, and economy. I'll go there and push back. I will cut costs for families, block overreach, and protect the valley's way of life. I am endorsed by the Yakima County Republican Party and Representative Jeremie Dufault. My wife Nicole and I are proudly raising our two children here in the valley. This is our home.

Statement For the .001%, America is in a Gilded Era. For the rest of us, economic inequality is at its peak. Reproductive rights are being gutted. Christian teachings are being hijacked to justify endless wars and to terrorize immigrants. Gas and grocery prices are sky high. Lawful gun owners are being shot in cold blood for exercising their right to peacefully protest. Our environment and our children's futures are being destroyed. We need someone in Olympia who is going to fight for and protect Yakima residents from the King in the White House. I would be honored to receive your vote.

Contact (509) 255-7116; info@reedyberg.com; https://www.reedyberg.com

Contact (360) 909-6327; ehallock.law@gmail.com

Assessor Duties

Qualifications

The Assessor is responsible for the appraisal of all real and taxable personal property in the County. The office is also responsible for administering senior citizen and disabled person exemptions. The Assessor also calculates all levy information from the various taxing districts as well as audits the amounts requested to ensure they do not exceed the lawful limits. New parcel information and maintaining the parcel mapping for the County is also a duty of this office

Candidates for Assessor must be qualified electors of their district.

The Assessor serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075

Assessor

end of contest

Jacob Tate

(Prefers Republican Party)

Keith Effler

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Yakima County Assessor

Elected Experience Republican Precinct Committee Officer

Other Professional Experience More than 30 years serving Yakima County as Chief Deputy Assessor for two prior Assessors and Property Database Manager. United States Navy veteran.

Other Professional Experience Businessman of 15 years - a commercial photographer and entrepreneur. Chartered a still-successful nonprofit 17 years ago, serving youth and young adults. Opened the first coworking space in Yakima and am currently working on a new one.

Education Mass Appraisal Specialist designation through the International Association of Assessing Officers, one of the highest professional designations in mass appraisal. More than 500 hours of property valuation and assessment education through the Washington State Department of Revenue and IAAO. Community Service Born and raised in Yakima County. Committed to transparent government, taxpayer education, and public service. Statement Born and raised in Yakima County, I joined the United States Navy after high school and dedicated most of my career to public service. My career has been guided by a belief in service above self, and serving as your Assessor has been a great honor. As Assessor, I remain committed to transparent government, taxpayer accessibility, and assessment practices applied consistently across all taxpayers. My office has continued modernizing software and public systems to improve efficiency, public access to information, and service to Yakima County residents. I respectfully ask for your vote to continue serving as Yakima County Assessor. Contact (509) 930-7649; jacobtateforassessor@gmail.com

Education Graduated Honors from Zillah High. Earned Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Northwest Nazarene University. Also studied philosophy. Currently enrolled in courses with the International Association of Assessing Officers. Community Service Foster and adoptive dad. President & long-time board member of the Yakima Valley Society for Cultural Education. One of the preachers at a growing non-denominational church. Tutor for 8th graders. Statement Property tax is burdensome. Good people can lose land and possibly their freedom if they don’t pay. My solution is to only collect an absolute minimum (Luke 3:13). I won’t befriend state officials or play games. I’ll push boundaries, questioning everything, effectively cutting your tax burden as far as the law allows. I will show publicly how property values are calculated when I’m in office. Together we will know the extent to which we can discount them, and find loopholes that exist. I aim for Yakima County to become the cheapest tax base in Washington. Yakima County Republican Party endorsed. Contact (509) 509-0135; freedom@effler.us; effler.us

Auditor Duties

Qualifications

The Auditor performs four major functions: Exofficio supervisor of elections; records and maintains permanent county documents such as real property records, surveys, plats, marriage licenses and veterans’ discharge papers; acts as an agent of the Washington State Department of Vehicle Licensing; and provides accounting services for the county in the form of accounts payable, payroll, and compiling the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.

Candidates for Auditor must be qualified electors of their district.

The Auditor serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075

Auditor

end of contest

Charles Ross

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Yakima County Auditor, 2014 to Current; Washington State Representative, 2006 to 2014; Yakima County Precinct Officer, #1301; Yakima County Republican Central Committee Board Member; Councilman and Mayor, Town of Naches 1997 to 2006 Other Professional Experience Licensed Funeral Director, 1996 - 2014; United States Navy, 1990 – 1994 Education Associate of Arts Degree, Yakima Valley College; Associate of Applied Science Degree, Mt. Hood Community College Community Service Veterans of Foreign Wars, Lifetime Member; The American Legion, 27-Year Member; 20-year Member Naches Lions Club; 10-Year Volunteer Madd Hatter’s Haunt Statement If re-elected to a fourth term, I will continue working hard for the public. I do not agree with every law the Legislature passes, but I do my best to implement them in a friendly, fair and professional manner. I believe the experience gained from my 11 years currently serving as your Yakima County Auditor, 8 years in the Washington State House of Representatives and almost 9 years as mayor and city council member in my hometown of Naches has helped make me a qualified leader. Thank you for your support. Contact (509) 945-5044; friendsofcharlesross@gmail.com

Maria Cuevas

(Prefers Democratic Party)

Elected Experience Treasurer, American Federation of Teachers Local 1485, YVC Other Professional Experience Maria Cuevas is a retired educator, sociologist, and community leader with a career focused on higher education and community engagement. She taught Sociology, Ethnic Studies, and Intercultural Communication at Yakima Valley College for nearly two decades, coordinated the college’s Diversity Series and mentored students pursuing higher education and leadership opportunities. Education Masters Public Health/Social Welfare, UCLA; Doctoral Studies (ABD), WSU Community Service Maria serves on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Memorial Foundation and Between the Ridges Alliance, and continues volunteering with organizations focused on health, immigrant support, education, and community development. Statement The Auditor's Office handles the most important paperwork in our civic lives. Our vote. Our marriage. Our home. It should treat every person with the same care a good teacher gives students. Our voter turnout is the lowest in the state. That is not a failure of our voters. That is a failure of imagination by an office that has not been built for the full community it serves. I will change the standard. Bilingual service that is real and voter outreach that prevents ballot rejections. Plain-language financial reporting any taxpayer can read. Vote Maria Cuevas for real community representation. Contact (509) 426-4474; infovotemariacuevas@gmail.com; https://www.votemariacuevas.com/

Clerk Duties

Qualifications

The County Clerk maintains the permanent records of the Superior Court, including all legal filings and records of all court proceedings.

Candidates must be qualified electors of their district.

The Clerk serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075

Clerk

end of contest

Billie A. Maggard

(Prefers Republican Party)

No statement or photo submitted. Contact (509) 969-8089; billiemaggard2@gmail.com

Coroner Duties

Qualifications

It is the duty of the coroner to assume jurisdiction over all bodies of deceased persons who come to their deaths suddenly and without medical attendance. This applies to circumstances which indicate death was caused by unlawful or unnatural means or where a death occurs under suspicious circumstances. The coroner also maintains records related to these duties, and provides for the custody and security of valuables of the deceased.

Candidates must be qualified electors of their district.

The coroner shall also perform the duties of the sheriff under certain conditions. The Coroner serves a four year term.

Coroners may not be an owner or employee of a funeral home or mortuary, and shall not appear or practice as an attorney in any court. RCW 29A.20.021, RCW 36.24.175, RCW 36.24.170

Coroner

end of contest

Marshall Slight

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Current Yakima County Coroner Other Professional Experience Yakima County Chief Deputy Coroner 2009-2025, assisting in key functions including forensic pathology, scene investigation, autopsy support, identification of the deceased, notification of next-of-kin, and control and disposition of personal property. Self Employed Body Removal Technician from 2002-2024, providing professional body removal for local funeral homes. Education Medical Legal Investigation Course 2010 and Continuing Education Course including Mass Casualty and Burning Victims 2023; Death Investigation Course 2012. Community Service 2026 FIFA World Cup Fatality Management Workgroup, Member of Yakima County planning groups including Mass Casualty Scenario Development Committee, Suicide Prevention Committee, Drug Epidemic Council, Child Fatality Review and Prevention. Statement While serving as the coroner this past year, I have strengthened relationships with the public, law enforcement and local authorities, improved accountability in the reporting process, and instituted protocols concerning processing of personal effects, illegal drugs and death information. These actions have helped improve the function and credibility of the Coroner's Office. I am deeply committed to carrying out the duties of the Coroner's Office with professionalism, compassion, accuracy, and efficiency, and providing a resource for improving the health and safety of the community. My extensive experience and dedication make me well-qualified to continue serving as your Yakima County Coroner. Contact (509) 594-0042; Marshall4coroner@gmail.com; votemarshall.com

Prosecuting Attorney Duties

Qualifications

Major responsibilities of the County Prosecuting Attorney include legal advisor, prosecutor of criminal matters, and a representative of the county in civil cases.

Candidates must be registered to vote in Yakima County and be a lawyer admitted to the Washington State Bar.

The Prosecuting Attorney serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075, 36.27.010

Prosecuting Attorney

end of contest

Tyler Haueter

Quinn Dalan

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience No prior elected experience.

Elected Experience None.

Other Professional Experience Decorated Air Force Veteran recognized for outstanding leadership with nearly 19 years working in the criminal justice system in various capacities. Experience includes Assistant City Attorney, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Defense Attorney, Civil and Criminal Legal Intern, Criminal Investigator, Court Clerk, Military Justice Manager, Criminal Defense Paralegal and Office Manager, and General Law Paralegal.

Other Professional Experience YWCA Yakima, Director of Development

Education Juris Doctor from University of Idaho College of Law (Dean’s List). Bachelor of Science, Justice Administration from Wayland Baptist University with a minor in Business Administration (Summa Cum Laude). Community Service Community involvement includes church leadership positions, football official, basketball official, and softball umpire. Statement I am running for County Prosecutor to protect our neighborhoods, stand up for victims, and hold violent offenders accountable. I will enforce the law firmly, consistently, and without apology. I will work side by side with law enforcement and community leaders to hold offenders accountable and restore trust in our justice system. My focus is violent crime, domestic violence, and crimes against children and seniors. Our families deserve a prosecutor who demands accountability, integrity, equal justice and delivers. I am unanimously endorsed by the Yakima County Republican Party. My wife Alexis and I are raising our seven children in Yakima. Contact (509) 255-7116; info@tylerforyakima.com; tylerforyakima.com

Education Gonzaga University, Class of 2004; Regent University School of Law, Class of 2007 Community Service Previous board service: Safe Yakima Valley, Rod’s House, YWCA Yakima, Yakima Rotary Club, Junior League of Yakima, La Casa Hogar, League of Women Voters Yakima County, Yakima County Bar Association, Washington State Women’s Commission (Safety Committee); Current board member: Comprehensive Healthcare, Larson Gallery, Washington Women Lawyers, Endowment for Equal Justice, Gender and Justice Commission (Domestic and Sexual Violence Committee Chair); Current member: Yakima Rotary Club, Yakima County Bar Association Statement Quinn Dalan has served Yakima County as an attorney since 2008, building a career focused on public safety, accountability, and strong partnerships with law enforcement. She began in the Yakima County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, advancing to the Special Assault Unit and later supervising the District Court Unit. With more than 65 trials in state and federal court, Quinn is a proven, trial-ready prosecutor. She currently serves as municipal prosecutor for Wapato, Granger, and Zillah. Her experience as a public defender and pro tem judge gives her a balanced, comprehensive understanding of the justice system. Quinn is ready to serve. Contact (509) 248-1760; connect@vote4quinn.com; vote4quinn.com

Sheriff Duties

Qualifications

The Sheriff is responsible for the provision of police services in the unincorporated portion of the county. This includes patrol, criminal investigation, and emergency response.

Candidates must be qualified electors of their district.

The Sheriff serves a four year term.

Within 12 months of assuming office, a certificate of completion of a basic law enforcement training program must be obtained. RCW 29A.20.021, RCW 36.28.025

Sheriff

end of contest

Jake Church

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Yakima Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 10 - Terms as Secretary and President - Toppenish Lions Club - Vice President Other Professional Experience 1997-2000 High School Agriculture Teacher - Sunnyside Police Officer Toppenish PD - 2000-2005 Police Sergeant Toppenish PD 2005-2016. 2016 - Present - Yakima County Sheriff's Office serving as a Deputy, Sergeant, and currently Lieutenant. Education BS Agriculture Education - University of Idaho, FBI National Academy Graduate Community Service Yakima Downtown Rotary member, Toppenish Lions Club Vice President, Yakima Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 10. International Footprint Yakima Chapter 38 - member. Statement Jake Church is running for Yakima County Sheriff with a strong record of service in Yakima County and a deep love for his family and the Yakima community. Throughout his 26-year law enforcement career, Jake has worked side by side with Deputies, Officers, and regional agencies to protect families and strengthen public safety across the Yakima Valley. He has earned the respect and support of local law enforcement professionals who trust his leadership, integrity, and commitment to public safety. Jake is dedicated to protecting and serving the people of Yakima County and keeping every neighborhood in the Yakima Valley safe.

Roman Kilinkaridis

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience As a police officer with 7 years on the front lines, I’ve seen the pain up close. Yakima County continues to battle serious public safety challenges. Violent crime rates remain higher than national averages, and domestic violence tears apart far too many families — with thousands of incidents reported in the county in recent years and rates well above state and national levels. Other Professional Experience Business owner and police officer. Education No information submitted Community Service No information submitted Statement I see this community from a unique perspective. I came to this country as an immigrant. I became a US citizen. I built two local businesses that together create 18 jobs here in Yakima County every month. And every week, I put on my uniform as a police officer. In my first year, I will focus on three priorities. Protecting our youth. Supporting victims of domestic violence. And preventing fraud, especially against our senior citizens. Our seniors built this community. We owe them protection and respect. Contact contact@voteroman.com; www.voteroman.com

Contact connect@votechurch.com; www.votechurch.com

Treasurer Duties

Qualifications

The Treasurer serves as the banking center for 60 county departments as well as 150 public agencies and districts within the county. The office bills and collects taxes, processes foreclosures, prepares financial reports, manages cash for the County’s General Fund, and provides forecasting for major revenues.

Candidates must be qualified electors of their district.

The Treasurer serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075

Treasurer

end of contest

Stephanie Patterson

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience No information submitted Other Professional Experience Yakima County Treasurers Office, 12 years - Senior Manager, Investments and Banking. Management of Yakima County's Investment Portfolio and the County's banking functions, general fund revenues, debt activities, and implementation of multiple financial applications. I have also served as the Accounting Manager, Senior Accountant, and as an Accountant in past years. Prior experience includes 10 years of public and private accounting, involving a large array of business industries.

Sam Johnson

(Prefers Independent Party)

No statement or photo submitted. Contact (509) 949-0524; votesamforyakima@gmail.com; www.electsamjohnson.com

Education Washington State University - Bachelor's in Accounting with a minor in Political Science. Certified Government Investment Professional (CGIP). Cle Elum/Roslyn High School Community Service Leadership Yakima, Yakima Chamber of Commerce, Yakima Women's Republican Club. Statement It is an honor to run for the position of Yakima County Treasurer. My experience and education provide for a very valuable skill-set, and equip me as the only candidate capable of seamlessly stepping into the role on day one. Yakima County's taxpayers can benefit from my expertise of this office by knowing that your tax dollars are property managed and safeguarded. My invaluable in-depth knowledge of the Treasurer's operations and state statutes will also allow for further enhancement of centralized receipting options and convenient payment options for residents. I have also been endorsed by the Yakima County Republican Party. Contact (509) 406-8477; electstephaniepatterson@gmail.com; www.stephanie4Treasurer.com

County Commissioner Duties

Qualifications

The Board of Yakima County Commissioners is responsible for the overall administration of Yakima County government. Some responsibilities of the county legislative authority include adopting the annual budget, approving and enacting ordinances and resolutions, and making appointments to advisory boards and commissions.

Candidates must be residents and registered voters of their district.

Each Commissioner serves a four year term.

RCW 29A.24.075, 36.32.040(3)

County Commissioner end of contest

District 1

Robert Udell

(Prefers Republican Party)

Kristoffer Strutner

(Prefers Republican Party)

Elected Experience Elected Yakima County Sheriff for two terms, first term 2019.

Elected Experience No information submitted

Other Professional Experience 36 years law enforcement. Chair of Yakima Valley Local Crime Lab executive committee, chair of operations committee for YACORPS, Yakima County technology collaborative board. Past fire chief Naches Heights Fire Department, former owner of Udell Apples, a family fruit ranch. EMT for local ambulance company.

Other Professional Experience Heavy civil construction manager and infrastructure professional with experience overseeing multimillion dollar projects throughout the Western United States involving excavation, utilities, transportation infrastructure, land development, and environmental systems. This experience is important because infrastructure construction and maintenance are among the largest responsibilities and expenditures in county government. Lobbying groups are saying "People Must Live in Cities" I Say No!

Education Bachelor of Science from Washington State University. Law enforcement sponsored leadership training over past dozen years. Community Service Volunteer firefighter, coach of youth sports teams. Former member Kiwanis, current member Rotary. On the Salvation Army board, chair of the Safe Yakima Valley, formerly on Comprehensive Healthcare board. Statement Bob Udell is a local leader who has spent 36 years in law enforcement, eight of them as sheriff. Now he wants to be County Commissioner. Bob knows how government works. He's led one of its largest department for nearly a decade. He is the candidate with the most relevant experience. Bob has spent decades working with others to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. He has earned the trust of local law enforcement officials, business leaders, and community members alike. His commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparent leadership makes him the right choice for County Commissioner. Contact (509) 480-8911; robertudell30@gmail.com; bobforyakima.com

Education Naches Valley High School Graduate, IUOE Local 302 Apprenticeship Program Graduate, and Understanding What It Feels Like To Barely Get By! Community Service Youth shooting sports supporter, Wildland Firefighter and equipment operator, and longtime advocate for agriculture, infrastructure, emergency response, and rural communities. Statement Kris Strutner grew up in the Yakima Valley working for local ranchers and farmers. He is a heavy civil construction and infrastructure professional running to restore opportunity, affordability, and local control in Yakima County. County government has become too expensive, too restrictive, and too disconnected from working families, agriculture, and small business owners. Government regulation (Flock Cameras) continue to expand while affordability and opportunity continue to decline. Kris will work to end YCWRS (Well Metering) permitting requirements, slash unnecessary permitting and building regulations, decrease the cost to build, support agricultural workers and employers, and streamline environmental and development review processes. Contact (253) 261-8441; kris@kris4yak.com

District Court Judge Duties

Qualifications

District Court has criminal jurisdiction over misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and criminal traffic infractions. Civil cases in District Court can include traffic infractions, small claims cases, and name change petitions.

Prospective Judges must be resident electors of the county and admitted to practice law in the State of Washington.

Judges serve a four year term.

State Constitution, Article IV, Section 17, RCW 3.34.060

District Court Judge end of contest

Position 1

Gary Hintze

Legal/Judicial Experience Yakima County District Court Judge, March 2022 to present. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in the Yakima County Prosecutor's Office (2000-2022), where I served in District Court, Juvenile, General Felony, Narcotics, Special Assault (supervisor), and Gang Units prosecuting such crimes as domestic violence, sexual assaults, firearm offenses, narcotics trafficking, and murder. Judge pro tem in the municipal courts of Yakima, Union Gap, Wapato, and Granger (2011-2022). DMCJA Rules Committee (2024-2026). Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education Seattle University School of Law, Tacoma, WA Juris Doctor, May 1997. University of Washington, Seattle, WA B.A. degrees in Business Administration (Finance) and History, June 1993. Community Service First Commissioner District Director (2014-2016). Statement When I was first appointed District Court Judge and then elected to retain the position, I was honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve our community. I have pursued justice throughout my previous 21+ years as a Yakima County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and my many years as a judge. My background earned me the overwhelming support of judges, law enforcement, and community leaders throughout Yakima County. I promise to continue to work hard, to treat all people with respect and fairness, and to give justice to all those that come before me. Thank you for your continued support.

District Court Judge end of contest

Position 2

Brian Sanderson

Legal/Judicial Experience Before you elected me in 2010, I ran my own law firm, served as the Selah Municipal Court Judge, special prosecutor, public defender, Washington State Assistant Attorney General and Judge Pro Tem for multiple courts throughout the county. I also presented at continuing education events for attorneys/ judges and served on committees/workgroups on courtroom technology. Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education Juris Doctorate University of Idaho. Community Service Boy Scouts of America (Merit Badge Counselor), East Valley Little League (Coach), Yakima County Volunteer Attorney Services (Volunteer attorney and later speaker at continuing legal education for attorneys), Judged and helped facilitate mock trials for school children in the community. Statement Thank you for allowing me to serve as one of your District Court Judges. I respect the trust you have placed in me and will continue to treat everyone fairly under the law. My wife and I have enjoyed raising our family in Yakima County and remain committed to the quality and safety of our community. I appreciate your vote and will continue to work hard for you. Contact No information submitted

Contact judgehintze@gmail.com

District Court Judge end of contest

Position 3

Julia A. Davis

Legal/Judicial Experience Yakima County District Court Judge, April 2025 to present; Yakima County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office 2011-2025 Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education Gonzaga University School of Law- Juris Doctorate, 2010; Washington State University- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, 2007 Community Service No information submitted

District Court Judge Position 4

end of contest

Alfred G. Schweppe

Legal/Judicial Experience Yakima County District Court Judge, 2013 – present. Other Professional Experience Yakima County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, 1995 to 2001; Attorney/Partner, Meyer Fluegge and Tenney, P.S. 2002 to 2012. Member of Washington State Bar Association since 1992. Education Seattle University, B. A. Political Science, 1983; Seattle University School of Law, J. D. 1991. Community Service Yakima County Planning Commission, 2010 to 2012

Statement Unanimously appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, Julia Davis has served as District Court judge since 2025. Prior to that Julia worked as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney at the Yakima County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for over 13 years. In that time, she handled various types of cases in both District and Superior Court- including crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, crimes against children, driving under the influence, homicide, and vehicular homicide. Julia looks forward to continuing to serve you as one of your District Court judges. She lives in Yakima County with her partner Chad Janis.

Statement Judge Schweppe has served on the District Court bench since 2013. He has 34 years of legal and judicial experience handling both civil and criminal matters. Judge Schweppe believes judges should be fair, compassionate, and respectful. Currently, he serves as presiding judge overseeing the administrative operations of the court. He also presides over DUI Court which promotes public safety through intensive court monitored treatment of repeat DUI offenders while holding them accountable at the same time. The goal is to make Yakima County safer.

Contact judgejuliadavis@gmail.com

Judge Schweppe is a US Army veteran and resides in Yakima with his wife Jennifer. Contact (509) 961-6102; alschweppe@gmail.com