For the first time in a decade, King County residents will have a chance to make changes to the county charter, a document much like the county's constitution, providing the framework for how the region is governed.

Every 10 years, the county must convene a committee of citizens to review the charter and take feedback from the public on potential changes to how county government is set up and how it operates.

The 2007-2008 King County Charter Review Commission will be hosting nine public meetings - one in each county council district - in June and July to hear public comments and gather potential charter changes.

The commission has already received proposed charter changes from organizations such as community groups, tribes, political parties, the League of Women Voters, and the Municipal League, among others. Individual citizens will also be able to give input at any of the meetings, including those not in their districts. Citizens can also provide written comments by mail, web form, e-mail, or verbally by phone.

More information and a list of commission members are available on the Charter Review Commission's website at http://www.metrokc.gov/exec/charter/

The Ballard area meeting will be Tuesday, June 12, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the downtown Seattle Library, 1000 4th Ave., Wright and Ketcham Room, 4th floor.