Opinion: Bellevue Chamber Says No on 1125, Yes on 1183

The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce has taken positions on two statewide initiatives that will appear on this fall’s General Election ballot. As the Voice of Business in Bellevue, the Bellevue Chamber believes these positions are best suited to promote a thriving business environment on the Eastside. The Chamber encourages all registered voters to mail in their ballots by Nov. 8.

Initiative 1125 (Tolling): Vote No

Due to concerns about the potential negative impact on the Washington State transportation system, including on the , the Chamber opposes I-1125.

“We appreciate the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce’s opposition to Initiative 1125,” said Steve Mullin, president of the Washington Roundtable. “The Chamber understands that our state's recovery and future vitality are dependent on trade, agriculture and innovation – and that requires a transportation network that moves goods and workers efficiently.  I-1125 is the wrong prescription for Washington State’s economy.”

Initiative 1183 (Liquor Privatization): Vote Yes

Consistent with its support of Initiative 1100 that appeared on the ballot in 2010, the Chamber has decided to support Initiative 1183 as a way to end the state’s monopoly of liquor sales and provide a responsible way for businesses to get engaged in this market.

"The Yes on 1183 Coalition appreciates the support of the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce,” said Anthony Anton, President of the Washington Restaurant Association. “Restaurants are vital to the economic success of Bellevue, and the greater Eastside. The Washington Restaurant Association, representing 5,000 local restaurants, also supports a YES vote on 1183. 1183 gets rid of the costly state liquor store system, allows competition, and reduces costs for taxpayers, consumers, and restaurants.  More competition on wine and liquor prices will benefit Washington restaurants and our customers, on the Eastside and across our state."

The Bellevue Chamber serves as the voice of business on the Eastside, representing thousands of jobs in our community. Businesses range in size from sole proprietors to large corporations. The Chamber's mission is to foster a healthy business environment by providing strategic leadership, advocacy, tools, and resources for business success.

-- Information from the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce

For information about the initiatives, check out the summaries of the initiatives on the Secretary of State's website.