FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 31, 2025

Michelle Belkot

electmichellebelkot@gmail.com

Clark County Councilor Michelle Belkot Files Lawsuit Alleging Civil Rights Violations and Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) Breaches.

Clark, WA – On Friday, March 28, 2025, Clark County Council member Michelle Belkot filed a lawsuit in Skamania County Superior Court against Clark County, citing violations of the Civil Rights Act, OPMA, and Quo Warranto claims. The lawsuit challenges her fellow Clark County Councilors' decision to remove her from the C-TRAN Board, in retaliation for her intended vote

on a significant transportation funding matter.

Councilmember Belkot alleges that her removal was an unconstitutional act of political coercion, violating her First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The lawsuit contends that the four other Councilors imposed a new and improper requirement—after the fact—that C-TRAN Board appointees vote in alignment with the majority of the Clark County Council. This action, Belkot asserts, was taken solely in response to her position on a critical funding issue that could cost County taxpayers millions of dollars.

“The actions taken by the majority of the Clark County Council sets a dangerous precedent, effectively punishing elected representatives for independent decision making,” said Belkot. “This is not just about my seat on the C-TRAN Board, this is about ensuring that the democratic process is protected, and that no government body can silence an elected official for

representing their constituents.”

The lawsuit further argues that the Board violated OPMA by failing to disclose the planned removal on the official meeting agenda, not allowing public comment on the matter, and proceeding with a decision that may have been premeditated outside of public view.

Additionally, the lawsuit includes a Quo Warranto claim against Wil Fuentes, whom the Council appointed to replace Belkot on the C-TRAN Board. The legal action challenges the legitimacy of his appointment, arguing that the Clark County Council overstepped its authority by removing Belkot without lawful cause.

Councilor Belkot is seeking declaratory relief to overturn her removal, as well as damages for the violation of her civil rights. She is represented by the law firm Stephens & Klinge LLP.

The filed complaint can be viewed HERE

Please consider donating to https://www.givesendgo.com/GF5UC to support Councilor Michelle Belkot's efforts.