City Council - Regular Meeting
City Council - Regular Meeting
Mon, May 11, 2026
Agenda items
Vote records
Discussion summary
Transcript
Meeting summaryAI-generated
Bellingham City Council — Regular Meeting, May 11, 2026
All seven council members were present for this regular meeting, which moved efficiently through committee reports and final ordinance votes. There was no mayor's report and no appointments.
Sewer Service Extension — 2863 Seaview Circle
The council authorized the mayor to enter into a retail sewer service agreement with the owner of a residence at 2863 Seaview Circle (noted in the transcript as 2663; the agenda lists 2863). Whatcom County Public Health determined that the property's septic system has failed and is leaching into the bank above nearby railroad tracks. Repair or replacement of the septic system is infeasible given site constraints. The property falls within the city's urban growth area and abuts an existing city sewer main. City policy generally bars sewer extensions outside city limits, but allows exceptions on public health and safety grounds — this qualifies under that exemption.
Vote: Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Anderson. Passed 7–0.
Contract Award — Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits Phase 1
The council awarded a contract for stormwater vault retrofits in the Lake Whatcom watershed to Tri-Co Companies LLC, the lowest of seven responsive bidders. The project improves stormwater conveyance and supports water quality protection for the drinking water source serving more than 120,000 residents. The bid came in at $527,276 — below the engineer's estimate of $600,755. Approximately $380,000 of the project cost is covered by a State Department of Ecology grant; the remainder is funded by the city's stormwater utility. The project is too small to trigger the city's apprenticeship hour requirements.
Vote: Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Anderson. Passed 7–0.
Contract Award — Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2
The council awarded a contract to Premium Services, Inc. for stormwater quality improvements in the Birchwood neighborhood, covering Nome Street, Illinois Street, Cedarwood Avenue, Pinewood Avenue, and Birchwood Avenue. This is a rebid. The winning bid of $2,446,733.69 (covering the base bid and three alternatives) came in well under the engineer's estimate of approximately $3.1 million. The project also includes replacement of a century-old water main running through the project area. Funding comes from the city's water fund, the stormwater utility, and a State Department of Ecology grant. The project is large enough to require apprenticeship hours under city code.
Vote: Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Hammill. Passed 7–0.
Noise Variance — Alabama Street Utility Crossings (Ziply Fiber)
The council approved a noise variance allowing Ziply Fiber to perform directional boring under Alabama Street near Interstate 5 during nighttime hours. The work involves installing fiber optic lines at two locations via alley bore points. Allowing night work minimizes traffic disruption and improves worker safety, but requires a variance from the city's noise ordinance (BMC 10.24.120).
Vote: Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Williams. Passed 7–0.
Joint Resolution — Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan
The council adopted a joint resolution with the Whatcom County Council approving the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan. The city and county have acquired more than 3,500 acres of forest land to protect the watershed that supplies drinking water to over 120,000 people. The plan — developed with consulting firm Northwest Natural Resources Group and informed by community engagement — guides forest thinning, invasive species removal, species diversity enhancement, and road maintenance and decommissioning. Councilmember Lilliquist noted this is the first year the city has a full in-house crew to carry out forest management work; staff will assess how much can be accomplished in-house versus through contractors.
Vote: Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Williams. Passed 7–0.
Resolution — Landlord and Tenant Advisory Work Group
The council approved a resolution creating a limited-term advisory work group to study and make recommendations about the city's landlord and tenant programs. More than half of Bellingham residents are renters, and the city's rental registration and inspection program — in place since 2015 — currently covers 22,578 registered units. City leaders proposed the work group to help guide future updates to policies and programs.
The council adopted two amendments before passing the resolution. Councilmember Anderson successfully amended the tenant member qualifications to specify that at least four residents who are current tenants be included, with preference given to applicants who are income-constrained, are students renting off-campus, represent vulnerable communities, or reflect Bellingham's diverse demographics. Councilmember Lilliquist then added a new provision (Section 3G) allowing the work group to identify issues outside the defined scope and flag them in the final report for possible city follow-up — a "parking lot" concept consistent with how the Keep Washington Working Act Working Group structured its final report, as confirmed by Deputy City Administrator Janice Keller. Councilmember Huthman (Huffman) encouraged interested community members — particularly tenants, landlords, building trades professionals, nonprofit housing advocates, and those with legal experience — to apply.
Vote on tenant amendment: Moved by Anderson, seconded by Lilliquist. Passed 7–0.
Vote on scope amendment (Section 3G): Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Anderson. Passed 7–0.
Vote on final resolution as amended: Moved by Cotton, seconded by Williams. Passed 7–0.
Resolution — 2026 Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan
The council adopted the updated Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan, the city's 20-year guide for parks, trails, open space, and recreation programs. Following adoption of the broader Bellingham Comprehensive Plan in December 2025, the PROS Plan now stands as its own referenced document rather than a chapter within the comprehensive plan. The update was informed by extensive community engagement including surveys, four public meetings, five focus groups (representing Latino, adaptive, young adult, recreation provider, and SEEK communities), and input from the Greenways Advisory Committee and Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Key community priorities identified include better trail connectivity (especially in North Bellingham and the Samish area), restrooms, lighting and signage improvements, family-friendly programming, and expanded indoor/aquatics/ice facilities. The plan also updates level-of-service metrics and capital planning processes. Adoption is required by June 2026 to maintain eligibility for Washington State Recreation and Conservation grants. The Parks and Recreation Board recommended approval April 8; the Planning Commission recommended approval April 23.
Vote: Moved by Williams, seconded by Hammill. Passed 7–0.
Final Consideration of Ordinances
Four ordinances passed on final reading by roll call, all 7–0:
Agenda Bill 24900: Amends the 2026 budget to reconcile estimated versus actual beginning reserve balances.
Agenda Bill 24901: Amends the 2026 budget to increase appropriation authority for goods and services authorized in the prior budget cycle.
Agenda Bill 24902: 2026 Budget Amendment No. 1.
Agenda Bill 24915: Amends BMC Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergency lift assistance from ambulance crews.
Upcoming Closed Record Hearing
On May 18, 2026, the council will hold a special meeting and closed record hearing on a proposed street vacation ordinance for a section of Fir Street right-of-way adjacent to 3702 Silver Beach Avenue.
Key Takeaways
Drinking water protection: The council approved both the Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits contract ($527,276, largely grant-funded) and the joint Forest Management Plan for 3,500+ acres of watershed land — continued investment in protecting the region's primary drinking water source.
Neighborhood stormwater and infrastructure: A $2.4 million contract advances stormwater quality improvements in the Birchwood neighborhood and replaces a 100-year-old water main, drawing on state grant funding.
Renter-focused advisory group: The newly created landlord-tenant advisory work group includes explicit membership preferences for income-constrained and vulnerable renters, and has a built-in mechanism to surface issues beyond its formal scope for future city action.
Parks plan adopted on deadline: The 2026 PROS Plan was approved in time to preserve the city's eligibility for state recreation grants, with a new emphasis on maintaining and maximizing existing parks rather than pure system expansion.
911 misuse penalties: An ordinance now establishes penalties for using 911 to obtain non-emergency ambulance lift assistance, addressing a resource and cost concern for emergency services.
AI-generated summary from voice-to-text transcript. Not the official record. Verify important details with the source documents linked above.
What happened at this meeting
An ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget, reconciling the differences between estimated 2026 beginning reserve balances and actual 2026 reserve balances and applying the differences to the ending reserve balances
An ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget to reconcile differences between estimated and actual 2026 beginning reserve balances and apply those differences to the ending reserve balance was presented. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Huffman seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget increasing appropriation authority in various funds to pay for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget to increase appropriation authority in various funds for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle was considered. Councilmember Williams moved approval and Councilmember Hamel seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget - amendment no. 1
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget as amendment number one was presented for consideration. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Williams seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
An ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal Code Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance
An ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal Code Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance was considered. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Anderson seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
An agreement to extend sewer service to 2863 Seaview Circle
Staff presented an agreement to extend sewer service to 2663 Seaview Circle, where the existing septic system has failed and is leaking above railroad tracks. The property is within the city's urban growth area and abuts an existing city sewer main, with repair or replacement of the septic system deemed infeasible due to site constraints. Councilmember Lilliquist noted this qualifies as a public health and safety exemption to the city's previous policy against extending services outside city limits. The committee voted unanimously to authorize the mayor to enter into the agreement, with the motion passing 7-0.
Agenda items (25)
Council Business
1Council BusinessOld or new business
Council members may raise any old or new business items not otherwise scheduled on the agenda.
24921Council BusinessAn ordinance amending Bellingham municipal code chapter 11.37 regarding electric vehicle charging stations to further define terms, administratively set charging fees, and display parking rates at point of sale ITEM REMOVED 5/5/26
This item was removed from the agenda as of May 5, 2026, and would have updated city rules on electric vehicle charging stations.
24922Council BusinessAn agreement to extend sewer service to 2863 Seaview Circle
The city will consider extending sewer service to a property at 2863 Seaview Circle.
What happened
Staff presented an agreement to extend sewer service to 2663 Seaview Circle, where the existing septic system has failed and is leaking above railroad tracks. The property is within the city's urban growth area and abuts an existing city sewer main, with repair or replacement of the septic system deemed infeasible due to site constraints. Councilmember Lilliquist noted this qualifies as a public health and safety exemption to the city's previous policy against extending services outside city limits. The committee voted unanimously to authorize the mayor to enter into the agreement, with the motion passing 7-0.24923Council BusinessContract award for Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits - Phase 1 (EV176), Bid
The council will award a contract for the first phase of vault retrofits at Lake Whatcom.
What happened
Staff presented a contract award for Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits Phase 1 (Bid 16B-2026), consisting of stormwater vault retrofits in the Lake Whatcom watershed. Seven bids were publicly opened on April 14, 2026, with Tri-Co Companies LLC submitting the lowest responsive bid of $527,276, compared to the engineer's estimate of $600,755. Councilmember Lilliquist noted that $380,000 of the $527,276 project cost will be funded by a State Department of Ecology grant, with the remainder coming from the city's stormwater utility. The committee voted unanimously to award the contract to Tri-Co Companies LLC, with the motion passing 7-0.24924Council BusinessContract award for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2 Re-bid (EV177), Bid No. 18B-2026
The council will award a rebid contract for the second phase of water quality improvements at Little Squalicum.
What happened
# SummaryStaff presented a contract award for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2 Re-bid (EV177, Bid No. 18B-2026) to Premium Services, Inc., the lowest responsive bidder among five companies that submitted proposals on April 9, 2026, for $2,446,733.69. The project involves enhanced stormwater treatment best management practices and water main replacement in the Birchwood neighborhood, including work on Nome Street, Illinois, Pinewood Avenue, Cedarwood Avenue, and Birchwood Avenue. Funding is supported by water and stormwater service utility funds with grant assistance from the State Department of Ecology. Councilmember Lilliquist moved for approval, seconded by Councilmember Hamel, and the motion passed unanimously 7-0 with no discussion.
24925Council BusinessNoise variance for night work to install utility crossings under Alabama
The city is seeking approval for noise exemptions to allow utility work under Alabama Street during nighttime hours.
What happened
Staff presented a noise variance request for Ziply Fiber to bore under Alabama Street to install new fiber optic lines at two locations east of I-5 during nighttime hours. The variance from BMC 10.24.120 section C4 is needed because nighttime work will minimize traffic impacts and allow faster, safer completion while reducing daytime traffic disruption. The committee recommended approval, and the motion by Councilmember Lilliquist was seconded by Councilmember Williams; it passed with no discussion or opposition.24926Council BusinessA resolution adopting the 2026 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan
The council will adopt the city's 2026 parks, recreation and open space plan.
What happened
Councilmember Williams presented the Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan, a 20-year long-range development guide for parks, trails, and recreation programs. The plan was developed through extensive public engagement including surveys, advisory committee input, four public meetings, and five focus groups representing Latino, adaptive, young adult, recreation provider, and SEEK communities. Key community feedback resulted in plan priorities including trail and natural area maintenance, filling gaps in North Bellingham and Samish areas, park improvements (restrooms, lighting, signage, accessibility), and expanded indoor recreation including aquatics and ice facilities. The plan emphasizes maintaining existing facilities, updates facility inventories and capital planning processes, and is required for Washington State recreation grant eligibility with a June 2026 completion deadline. The Parks and Recreation Board and Planning Commission both recommended approval, and the committee moved to recommend approval.24928Council BusinessA joint resolution of the Bellingham City Council and the Whatcom County Council adopting the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan
The city and Whatcom County will jointly adopt a management plan for forests in the Lake Whatcom watershed.
What happened
Staff presented a joint resolution for the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County Council to adopt the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan. The Lake Whatcom Land Acquisition and Preservation Program has purchased over 3,500 acres to protect the drinking water source for over 120,000 residents. The plan includes thinning, invasive species removal, tree diversity promotion, and road decommissioning/maintenance, with most work to be done by a newly established in-house crew as a learning year. The committee unanimously recommended approval; the motion by Councilmember Lilliquist was seconded by Councilmember Williams and passed 7-0.24929Council BusinessA resolution creating a limited-term advisory work group to study and make recommendations regarding City landlord and tenant programs
The council will establish a temporary advisory group to study and recommend improvements to city landlord and tenant programs.
What happened
# SummaryStaff presented a resolution creating a limited-term advisory work group to study the city's landlord and tenant programs, policies, and practices. Councilmember Anderson moved to amend the resolution to require that at least four current Bellingham tenants be given preference for positions, specifically those who are income-constrained, students renting off-campus, representing vulnerable communities, or reflecting diverse renter demographics—a motion that passed 7-0. Councilmember Liliquist then moved to add a new section allowing the work group to identify issues beyond the current scope for possible city follow-up, which Deputy City Administrator Janice Keller confirmed was consistent with other advisory groups. Councilmember Haffner emphasized the importance of diverse representation and encouraged community members to apply, noting the city seeks applicants with tenant experience, landlord/property manager experience (at least three), construction/inspection expertise, non-profit housing experience, tenant advocacy background, and legal expertise. The full resolution, moved by Councilmember Cotton and seconded by Councilmember Williams, passed 7-0.
Procedural (9)
2ProceduralOnline: Join the Zoom meeting at cob.org/cczoom, then select the interpretation channel at the bottom of the screen. Those wishing to offer public comment in Spanish will be able to do so and their comments will be interpreted into English. Meeting records: Video recordings of each meeting are available online at cob.org/meetings within five business days following each meeting.
Online meeting participants can join via Zoom and access Spanish interpretation by selecting the language channel; the city also records and posts all meetings online within five business days.
3ProceduralUpcoming closed record hearing On May 18, 2026, the Council will hold a special meeting and closed record hearing for the consideration of a street vacation ordinance for a section of the Fir Street right-of-way abutting the property generally located at 3702 Silver Beach Avenue. Details can be found at meetings.cob.org.
A special closed meeting will be held on May 18, 2026, to consider vacating a section of Fir Street right-of-way near 3702 Silver Beach Avenue.
4ProceduralIn person: Sign-up sheets are available outside the Council Chambers doors starting at 6:30 p.m. the evening of the meeting.
Sign-up sheets for in-person public comment are available outside Council Chambers starting at 6:30 p.m. on meeting nights.
5ProceduralSign up, both online and in person, closes at 7 p.m. Once signed up, speakers may participate via the following options:
Registration to speak closes at 7 p.m., whether signing up online or in person, and registered speakers can participate through various options.
6ProceduralIn person: Meetings are held in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall.
City Council meetings take place in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall.
7ProceduralOnline: Join the Zoom meeting at cob.org/cczoom and follow staff instructions at time of the hearing or public comment period.
Residents can join the meeting remotely via Zoom and participate in public comment or hearings by following staff instructions.
8ProceduralOver the phone: Call 253-215-8782, enter Meeting ID 871 5188 5205, and Password 9. Follow staff instructions at the time of the hearing or public comment period. Before or after a meeting: The City of Bellingham meets the Open Public Meetings Act by accepting written public comment in advance of City Council meetings. Send written input before or after a meeting.
Residents can call in to participate by phone using a provided phone number and meeting credentials, or submit written comments before or after the meeting.
9ProceduralBy mail addressed to: City Council, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225.
Written public comments can be mailed to the City Council at 210 Lottie Street before or after a meeting.
10ProceduralOnline: o For a public hearing: cob.org/publichearing. o For general public comment: E-mail all Council Members at ccmail@cob.org.
Written public input on hearings can be submitted online through the city website, or general comments can be emailed to all council members.
Ordinance
24900OrdinanceAn ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget, reconciling the differences between estimated 2026 beginning reserve balances and actual 2026 reserve balances and applying the differences to the ending reserve balances
The council will adjust the 2026 budget to reconcile actual starting reserve balances with the estimates used in the adopted budget.
What happened
An ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget to reconcile differences between estimated and actual 2026 beginning reserve balances and apply those differences to the ending reserve balance was presented. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Huffman seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.24901OrdinanceAn ordinance amending the 2026 budget increasing appropriation authority in various funds to pay for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle
The council will amend the 2026 budget to increase spending authority for goods and services that were approved in the previous budget cycle.
What happened
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget to increase appropriation authority in various funds for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle was considered. Councilmember Williams moved approval and Councilmember Hamel seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.24902OrdinanceAn ordinance amending the 2026 budget - amendment no. 1
The council will make adjustments to the 2026 budget as part of the first amendment cycle.
What happened
An ordinance amending the 2026 budget as amendment number one was presented for consideration. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Williams seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.24915OrdinanceAn ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal Code Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance
The city will establish penalties for misusing the 911 system to request non-emergency assistance, such as calling for help with lifting rather than true emergencies.
What happened
An ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal Code Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance was considered. Councilmember Hamel moved approval and Councilmember Anderson seconded. No discussion was raised by council members. The motion passed 7-0 on roll call vote.Consent Calendar
24920Consent CalendarAuthorization of payroll labor cost payments dated March 16, 2026 to
The council will authorize routine payroll payments from March 16, 2026.
24930Consent CalendarAuthorization of AP transactions issued April 10, 2026 through April 16, 2026
The council will authorize routine vendor payments issued between April 10 and April 16, 2026.
24931Consent CalendarAuthorization of AP transactions issued April 17, 2026 through April 23, 2026
The council will authorize routine vendor payments issued between April 17 and April 23, 2026.
Additional votes recorded in minutes
Authorize mayor to enter agreement extending sewer service to 2663 Seaview Circle
aye 1
voice voteaye
Award contract 16B-2026 for Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits Phase 1 to Tri-Co Companies LLC
aye 1
voice voteaye
Award contract 18B-2026 for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2 to Premium Services Inc.
aye 1
voice voteaye
Approve noise variance BMC 10.24.120 for Ziply Fiber night work on Alabama Street
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt resolution approving Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan
aye 1
voice voteaye
Amend landlord-tenant advisory work group resolution – tenant composition language (Option 2)
aye 1
voice voteaye
Amend resolution adding Section 3(G) – parking lot for out-of-scope issues
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt resolution creating limited term landlord and tenant advisory work group (as amended)
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt resolution approving 2026 Parks and Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan
aye 1
voice voteaye
Approve consent agenda
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt ordinance amending 2026 budget – reconciling beginning reserve balances (Agenda Bill 24900)
aye 7
Dan Hammillaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Skip Williamsaye
Adopt ordinance amending 2026 budget – increasing appropriation authority (Agenda Bill 24901)
aye 7
Dan Hammillaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Skip Williamsaye
Adopt ordinance amending 2026 budget amendment number one (Agenda Bill 24902)
aye 7
Dan Hammillaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Skip Williamsaye
Adopt ordinance amending BMC chapter 6.10 – penalties for misuse of 911 for non-emergent lift assistance (Agenda Bill 24915)
aye 7
Dan Hammillaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Skip Williamsaye
Verbatim transcript available
151 transcript segments indexed
City of Bellingham City Council Regular Meeting minutes May 11, 2026, 7 p.m. Chair: Hannah Stone Phone: 360-778-8200 Members: Hollie Huthman, Daniel Hammill, Email: ccmail@cob.org Edwin H. "Skip" Williams, Lisa Anderson, Web: cob.org/council Michael Lilliquist, Jace Cotton Regular meeting The following items are heard in the Regular Meeting only.
Good evening and welcome to the Bellingham City Council regular meeting. Today is Monday, May 11th, 2026. I'm going to call the meeting to order and begin with roll call. Hollie Huffman Here. Dan Hammill Here.
Skip Williams Here. Lisa Anderson Here. Michael Lilliquist Here. Chase Cotton Here. Hannah Stone Here. All council members are present. Thank you. The Bellingham City Council meets all requirements of the state of Washington Open Public Meetings Act.
Call to order and roll call The meeting was called to order by Council President Stone at 7 p.m. Present: Council President Hannah Stone, First Ward Council Member Hollie Huthman, Second Ward Council Member Daniel Hammill, Third Ward Council Member Edwin H.
"Skip" Williams, Fourth Ward Council Member Lisa Anderson, Fifth Ward Council Member Michael Lilliquist, Sixth Ward Council Member Jace Cotton, At-Large Announcements and upcoming meetings The Bellingham City Council meets all requirements of the State of Washington Open Public Meetings Act.
Before we begin, we acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional and unceded territory of the Lummi, Nooksack, Samish, and Semiahmoo people who have cared for and tended this land since time immemorial.
Truth and acknowledgement are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth.
1. Land acknowledgement statement Before we begin, we acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional and unceded territory of the Lummi, Nooksack, Samish and Semiahmoo People who have cared for and tended this land since time immemorial.
Truth and acknowledgment are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth.
We pay respect to their elders past and present. Please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration, and settlement that bring us together here today. And please join us in uncovering such truths at any and all public events.
The Bellingham City Council provides Spanish interpretation at all regular evening meetings. Interpretation can be accessed in person by attendees utilizing the headsets that are located at the front of the room.
We pay respect to their elders past and present. Please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration, and settlement that bring us together here today. And please join us in uncovering such truths at any and all public events.
Remote viewers can log on to cob.org/cczoom and click on the language icon at the bottom of the screen to listen in Spanish. Just a reminder that our next council meeting will actually be next Monday, May 18th.
2. Language access The Bellingham City Council provides Spanish interpretation at all regular evening meetings. Interpretation can be accessed by in-person attendees by utilizing the Page 1 of 9 headsets located at the front of the room.
Remote viewers can log on to cob.org/cczoom and click on the “Language” icon at the bottom of the screen to listen in Spanish. 3. Upcoming closed record hearing On May 18, 2026, the Council will hold a special meeting and closed record hearing for the consideration of a street vacation ordinance for a section of the Fir Street right-of-way abutting the property generally located at 3702 Silver Beach Avenue.
So, this is one of the rare occasions when we have back-to-back council meetings. And actually that agenda packet is already published um and available online at this time. So, if you want to know what's coming up at our next meeting, you can access that through the city's website.
Details can be found at meetings.cob.org. 4. Next Council meeting The next City Council meeting with be held on May 18, 2026. Mayor's report Standing time for briefings, updates, and reports to Council by the Mayor.
Um this evening, there's no mayor's report and no appointments. So, we will move forward then with council assignment reports. Are there any council members who have um reports from assigned committees, boards, or other groups that you are serving on?
Okay. Seeing none, we will move forward with committee meeting reports. So, these are report-outs from earlier today when the committees met and perhaps took action. The first meeting this afternoon was public works and natural resources.
Summary: There was no Mayor's report. Council assignment reports Standing time for Council Member reports from assigned committees, boards, and other groups. Summary: There were no Council Member reports.
Committee meeting reports The following committee meetings are held during the day. Committee chairs will present a summary of each agenda item during the evening meeting, and further discussion or action may take place if needed.
That committee is chaired by Councilmember Lilliquist. So, I will turn to him for a report. Thank you. That happened fast. The committee had met this afternoon. We had six items. First item was struck from the agenda.
Committee meetings are open to the public to attend, however committee agendas do not include public comment sessions. Public Works and Natural Resources 1 p.m. Michael Lilliquist, Chair Lisa Anderson, Jace Cotton 24921 1.
So, the next item we considered is an agreement to extend water service to the address at 2663 Seaview Circle. Hold on a second. The existing residence at that address has been informed by the Whatcom County Health Department that the septic system that serves the residence has failed and is leaching out of out of of the bank above the railroad tracks.
An ordinance amending Bellingham municipal code chapter 11.37 p. 6 regarding electric vehicle charging stations to further define terms, administratively set charging fees, and display parking rates at point of sale Page 2 of 9 Summary: This item was removed from the agenda on May 5, 2026.
The property is within the city's urban growth area and abuts an existing city sewer main. Repair or replacement of the septic system appears infeasible due to the site constraints. The residence is The residence is requesting to enter into a contract with the City of Bellingham for retail sewer services as allowed under Bellingham Municipal Code Section 15.36.
Uh basically, several years ago we declined to ever extend water service outside of our the city area unless there's a public health and safety reason. This is a public and health and safety exemption.
24922 2. An agreement to extend sewer service to 2863 Seaview Circle p. 25 Summary: Paul Reed, Public Works Development Manager, and Mike Wilson, Public Works Assistant Director of Engineering, presented the request to extend sewer service to 2863 Seaview Circle Bellingham, WA.
This afternoon, Kenny agreed with that recommendation and uh we therefore move to authorize the mayor to enter into an agreement extending sewer service to 2663 Seaview Circle. Second. Motion was made by Councilmember Lilliquist and a second by Councilmember Anderson.
The Whatcom County Health Department declared that the septic system serving the residence has failed and is leaching out of the bank above the railroad tracks. The property is within the City's urban growth area and abuts an existing sewer main.
Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. I. I. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0. The next item was a contract award for late Lake Whatcom vault retrofits phase one, which is bid number 16B-2026.
Council Members discussed the agreement and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Lisa Anderson moved to authorize the Mayor to enter into the agreement for sewer service at 2863 Seaview Circle Bellingham, WA.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 24923 3. Contract award for Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits - Phase 1 (EV176), Bid p. 38 No. 16B-2026 Summary: Jessica Bennett, Capital Engineer, and Mike Wilson, Public Works Assistant Director of Engineering, presented the contract award for Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits - Phase 1, Bid No.
The improvements in this case consist of stormwater vault retrofits associated with existing stormwater conveyance and restoration work in the Lake Whatcom watershed. The city publicly opened seven bids on April 14th, 2026, and Tri-Co Companies LLC was a bidder who submitted the lowest responsive bid of $527,000 to $527,276, including any applicable sales or use tax.
The engineer's estimate for the project was just a bit more than that at $600,755. The project, given its size, is too small to include to be subject to the apprenticeship program requirements under Bellingham Municipal Code 4.94.
16B-2026. The project consists of stormwater vault retrofits associated with stormwater conveyance and restoration work in the Lake Whatcom Watershed. Council Members discussed the contract award and asked questions.
Um I would note that the majority of the of this or much of the funding for this project is due to a grant from the State Department of Ecology. Um that is 380,000 of the 527 will come from that grant.
Action: Michael Lilliquist / Lisa Anderson moved to award contract No. 16B-2026 for the Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits - Phase 1 (EV176) to TRICO Companies, LLC, in the amount of $527,276.00. MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
24924 4. Contract award for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2 Re-bid p. 43 (EV177), Bid No. 18B-2026 Summary: Kyle Carlson, Capital Engineer, and Mike Wilson, Public Works Assistant Director of Engineering, presented the contract award for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Page 3 of 9 Phase 2 Re-bid, Bid No.
The rest will come from the city's storm and surface water utility paid by ratepayers. This afternoon, the committee voted to award the contract number 16B-2026 for the Lake Whatcom Vault Retrofits Phase 1 to Tri-Co Companies, LLC in the amount of $527,270 $527,276.
18B-2026. The project ensures installation of enhanced treatment for stormwater runoff in the Birchwood neighborhood to improve water quality in Little Squalicum Creek and the new Little Squalicum Estuary.
Second. Motion is made by Councilmember Lilliquist and a second by Councilmember Anderson. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0.
The next item is another contract award, this one for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2. This is a rebid, bid number 18B-2026. The improvements in this case consist of installation of enhanced treatment best management practices in the Birchwood neighborhood.
Council Members discussed the contract award and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Daniel Hammill moved to award contract No. 18B-2026 for the Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase 2 Re-bid (EV177) to Premium Services Inc., in the amount of $2,446,733.69.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 24925 5. Noise variance for night work to install utility crossings under Alabama p. 48 Street Summary: Paul Reed, Public Works Development Manager, and Mike Wilson, Public Works Assistant Director of Engineering, presented the noise variance request by Ziply Fiber to install utility crossings under Alabama Street.
The city publicly opened five bids on April 9th, 2026. Premium Services, Inc. was a responsible bidder who submitted the lowest responsive bid of >> $2,446,733.69 for all bid schedules combined, which includes the base bid and bid alternatives 1, 2, and 3, and including applicable any applicable sales or use tax.
Council Members discussed the noise variance and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved to recommend approval of the noise variance request from BMC 10.24.120(C)(4) for Ziply Fiber to install utility crossings under Alabama Street.
The engineer's estimate was again a bit higher at about $3.1 million. Given the size of this project, it does include the apprenticeship hour requirement. Um I would note that most of the improve There's a map that was shown are on Nome Street and Illinois Pinewood Avenue, Cedarwood Avenue, and Pinewood Avenue, and Birchwood Avenue.
In addition, this project to the stormwater retrofits actually includes replacement of a 100-year-old water main, which runs perpendicular to the stormwater. So, that'll be included in there. So, the funding source for this is both the water fund and the stormwater and service utility.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 24928 6. A joint resolution of the Bellingham City Council and the Whatcom County p. 51 Council adopting the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan Summary: Joel Pfundt, Public Works Director, and Michael Parelskin, Public Works Superintendent of Natural Resources Field Operations, presented the resolution, which adopts the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan.
The plan was crafted in coordination with Whatcom County by the Northwest Natural Resources Group. Council Members discussed the resolution and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved final approval of Resolution #2026-09.
In addition, there was some grant support from again the State Department of Ecology. This afternoon, the committee recommended moving to award the contract 18B-2026 for Little Squalicum Water Quality Retrofits Phase Two to Premium Services Incorporated in the amount of $2,446, $446,000 $2,446,733.69.
And I so move. Second. Motion is made by Councilmember Lilliquist and a second by Councilmember Hamel. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Page 4 of 9 Planning 2:40 p.m. Hollie Huthman, Chair Lisa Anderson, Michael Lilliquist 24929 1. A resolution creating a limited-term advisory work group to study and p. 529 make recommendations regarding City landlord and tenant programs Summary: Janice Keller, Deputy City Administrator, Blake Lyon, Planning and Community Development Director, and Julia Burns, Rental Protection Program Specialist, presented the resolution, which creates a limited-term advisory work group to study and make recommendations regarding City landlord and tenant programs.
Council Members discussed the resolution and work group and asked questions. Action: Lisa Anderson / Michael Lilliquist moved to amend the resolution, “Section 1a. Tenant Experience: At least 4 residents who are currently tenants, including students in off-campus housing, in Bellingham.
And I think our final item was a noise variance for night work to install utility crossings under Alabama Street. Ziply Fiber is requesting to bore under Alabama Street with new fiber optic lines in two locations.
These areas are just to the east of I-5. Basically, they're going to build drill two holes in the alleyways and then bore underneath Alabama. Uh, to do that work is proposed, um, after review of proposed work and related traffic control plan, it's proposed that the city council grant a variance from noise restrictions that are found in the Bellingham Municipal Code to facilitate work during nighttime hours in order to minimize traffic impacts and provide for safe and efficient traffic control.
Preference for these positions shall be given to applicants who: are income-constrained; are students renting off-campus housing; represent vulnerable communities; or have other experiences that reflect the diverse demographics of Bellingham's renters.” MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
Action: Jace Cotton / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved final approval of Resolution #2026-10 as amended. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Lisa Anderson moved to amend the resolution, “Section 3. g. The workgroup may identify issues that go beyond the scope of work pertaining to current policies, requirements, and programs for inclusion in the final report, for possible follow-up work by the City.” AMENDMENT CARRIED 7-0.
Basically, by allowing them to work at night, the work can go forward more quickly and more safely and have less impact on traffic. However, this will require them to be make noise after uh, usual working hours uh, under a variance under the municipal code for noise disturbance.
This afternoon the committee recommended approving uh, so I would move that we approve the variance from BMC 10.24.120 section C4 for a noise variance. Second. Motion is by my council member Lilliquist and I second my council member Williams.
AMENDED MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Parks and Recreation 2:55 p.m. Edwin H. "Skip" Williams, Chair Page 5 of 9 Daniel Hammill, Jace Cotton 24926 1. A resolution adopting the 2026 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan p.
Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say aye. Aye. >> Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Can actually we have one other item? I think we do actually. Yeah, so >> So, the last item for the committee was a joint resolution of the city of Bellingham and Whatcom County Council adopting the Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan.
542 Summary: Nicole Oliver, Parks and Recreation Director, Peter Gill, Park Planning and Development Coordinator, Melissa Bianconi, Recreation Manager, Laine Potter, Park Design and Development Manager, and Steven Janiszewski, Park Operations Manager, presented the resolution, which adopts the 2026 Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan.
The plan represents a rewrite intended to reflect the long-term needs of the community. Council Members discussed the resolution and PROS Plan, and asked questions. Action: Edwin H. "Skip" Williams / Daniel Hammill moved final approval of Resolution #2026-11.
The Lake Whatcom Land Acquisition and Preservation Program to date has purchased over 3,500 acres to help protect Lake Whatcom, which is the drinking water source for over 120,000 residents both inside and outside the city.
These forest lands are critical for protecting water quality and preventing erosion and sediment from entering the lake. The city of Bellingham and Whatcom County have worked with a Northwest Natural Resources Group, a consulting firm, to develop an ecologically based Lake Whatcom Watershed Forest Management Plan.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Committee Of The Whole 3:45 p.m. Hannah Stone, Chair Hollie Huthman, Daniel Hammill, Edwin H. "Skip" Williams, Lisa Anderson, Michael Lilliquist, Jace Cotton 1. Old or new business Summary: Council Member Huthman reported that she attended the Procession of the Species Parade and thanked City staff and law enforcement for such a fun, joyful community event.
This plan integrates and implements the goals and objectives of the overall Lake Whatcom Management Program. The final forest management plan, which is in our document for approval tonight, also reflects input from the community engagement process.
Council Member Anderson highlighted that the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) State Baseball Tournament will be hosted at Joe Martin Field and is a great example of City park partnerships bringing tourism to Bellingham.
Um what as part of the discussion we indicated that um for the first time we really have a full in-house crew to do Lake uh forest management programs. This forest management includes both uh thinning and activities to uh remove invasive species and promote species diversity of trees, and also to decommission some roads or to work on maintaining repairing other roads which are subject to erosion.
Executive session Closed to the public. Report in the Regular Meeting only. Summary: There was no Executive Session. Consent agenda Page 6 of 9 Consent Agenda items are considered routine and/or non-controversial and may be approved in a single motion.
A member of the Council may ask that an item be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. 24920 1. Authorization of payroll labor cost payments dated March 16, 2026 to p. 901 March 31, 2026 24930 2.
Um that most of that work will probably done in-house, but this will be a year of learning to see how much work the in-house crews can get done. Uh this afternoon the committee unanimously recommended approving the resolution, which adopts the Lake Whatcom Forest Management Plan, and I so move.
Second. Motion was made by Councilmember Lilliquist and a second by Councilmember Williams. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Okay, seeing none that passes 7-0.
Authorization of AP transactions issued April 10, 2026 through April 16, p. 902 2026 24931 3. Authorization of AP transactions issued April 17, 2026 through April 23, p. 903 2026 Action: Michael Lilliquist / Hollie Huthman moved approval of the Consent Agenda in its entirety.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Final consideration of ordinances 24900 1. An ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget, reconciling the p. 904 differences between estimated 2026 beginning reserve balances and actual 2026 reserve balances and applying the differences to the ending reserve balances Action: Daniel Hammill / Hollie Huthman moved approval for third and final reading.
End of committee report. Thank you very much. Um before moving to the next committee, since it will be related as a planning item, um even though I received direction and support from our um office manager in the council office, I neglected to mention during the opening announcements that we do have an upcoming closed record hearing.
So, it is in the packet and the online packet even for today's meeting, um but that next week on May 18th, 2026, the council will hold a special meeting and closed record hearing for the consideration of a street vacation ordinance for a section of First Street right-of-way abutting the property generally located at 3702 Silver Beach Avenue.
Upon motion, said bill was placed on final passage and approved by the following roll call vote: AYES: Stone, Huthman, Hammill, Williams, Anderson, Lilliquist, Cotton NAYS: (None) EXCUSED: (None) MOTION CARRIED 7-0 and was thereafter named Ordinance #2026-05-010.
24901 2. An ordinance amending the 2026 budget increasing appropriation p. 908 authority in various funds to pay for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle Action: Page 7 of 9 Edwin H.
So again, details can be found at meetings.cob.org and that information is currently available on the city's website. Um so with that, I will turn to the next committee, which was the Planning Committee and that is chaired by Councilmember Huffman.
Thank you, Council President. This afternoon, we had one agenda item. It was agenda bill 2019-0929, a resolution creating a limited term advisory work group to study and make recommendations regarding city landlord and tenant programs.
"Skip" Williams / Daniel Hammill moved approval for third and final reading. Upon motion, said bill was placed on final passage and approved by the following roll call vote: AYES: Stone, Huthman, Hammill, Williams, Anderson, Lilliquist, Cotton NAYS: (None) EXCUSED: (None) MOTION CARRIED 7-0 and was thereafter named Ordinance #2026-05-011.
The city's landlord and tenant programs are critical to supporting safe, quality rental housing in Bellingham, where more than 50% of residents are renters. Originally established in 2015, the city's rental registration and property inspection program currently has 22,578 rental units registered.
24902 3. An ordinance amending the 2026 budget - amendment no. 1 p. 912 Action: Daniel Hammill / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved approval for third and final reading. Upon motion, said bill was placed on final passage and approved by the following roll call vote: AYES: Stone, Huthman, Hammill, Williams, Anderson, Lilliquist, Cotton NAYS: (None) EXCUSED: (None) MOTION CARRIED 7-0 and was thereafter named Ordinance #2026-05-012.
24915 4. An ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal p. 916 Code Chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance Action: Daniel Hammill / Lisa Anderson moved approval for third and final reading.
In recent years, the city has enacted additional new requirements to support fair, affordable, and accessible rental housing. City leaders proposed creating a limited term working group to study the city's landlord and tenant programs, policies, and practices to help inform enhancements and updates to better serve the community.
Upon motion, said bill was placed on final passage and approved by the following roll call vote: AYES: Stone, Huthman, Hammill, Williams, Anderson, Lilliquist, Cotton NAYS: (None) EXCUSED: (None) MOTION CARRIED 7-0 and was thereafter named Ordinance #2026-05-013.
And today during committee, there was a motion that was tabled. Um although there was not a vote on the resolution as a whole. Uh Councilmember Anderson, would you like to follow up on that? Yeah, I was the councilmember that made a motion.
Public comment period City Council heard public comments from 4 individuals. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m. Page 8 of 9 Hannah Stone, Council President ATTEST: Kelley Goetz, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED: 6/15/2026 Page 9 of 9
And hopefully, um this will be the right process. I would like to strike the wording of that original motion and replace it with and council has a copy of this, option two. Um at least four residents who are currently tenants in Bellingham, preferred for these positions, shall be given to applicants who are all income constrained, are students renting off-campus housing, represent vulnerable communities, or have other experiences that reflect the diverse demographics of Bellingham renters.
Second. Motion's been made by council member Anderson and a second by council member Lilliquist. Further discussion on the motion? Seeing none, all in favor will say "Aye." >> Aye. Any opposed or abstentions?
Okay, seeing none that passes 7-0. Okay. Uh council member So, sorry. This is >> [laughter] >> I'm I'm not chairing, you're chairing. Yes, and so, uh we do have a a uh motion requested to move to approve the resolution establishing a limited term landlord and tenant advisory work group as amended.
Uh Council member Anderson. It's just a quick follow-up. I want to give um credit and thanks to staff for wordsmithing. They kind of understood the direction I was going, but credit should be given where it is due, and thank you for our staff for wordsmithing my intention very nicely.
So, I appreciate you. Thank you. So, typically coming out of committee there would be a motion that the chair was bringing forward, but since there was not a vote this afternoon, we will entertain a motion at this time.
From committee? No, it can be from anybody. We're meeting currently as Well, I guess that's a question for legal. At this time, these are report out. So, does the motion at this time for approval of the resolution need to come from a committee member or can it be anyone on the council?
It can be from anybody. Council is meeting as the council of the whole. Okay. I saw Council member Cotton's hand first. I move to approve the resolution. Second. Motion was made by Council member Cotton and a second by Council member Williams.
Council member Lilquist. >> Move to amend the resolution. Um we had a good discussion this afternoon that had to do with uh the scope and the purpose of this advisory group. Uh the administration made it clear that they thought the the advisory work group would be um more successful if the the scope was clear and tight.
Um but I remain concerned about the fact that the existing scope of work isn't an entire universe of issues that the work group might identify and um following uh something has been used in the advisory [cough] work group, the idea of creating sort of a parking lot for issues that fall outside the current scope, I would like to amend section three to address that possibility.
I would like to add a new section G which says the work group may identify issues that go beyond the scope of the work pertaining to current policies, requirements, and programs for inclusion in the final report for possible follow-up by the city by the city.
So basically create a parking lot for those sort of issues. Second. Mo- So the motion for an amendment came by Council member Lilquist with a second by Council member Anderson. And I understand that you have what you just read in writing that you can provide.
>> Yeah, I originally thought about putting it in the purpose section, but administration suggested a better location, I believe. There's the language. Okay. Any discussion on the motion? Please hand that down to the clerk.
Any discussion? Council member Hudson. I'd be curious to hear from the administration about the amendment. Thoughts or input? Uh Janice Keller, Deputy City Administrator. Councilmember Liliquist's amendment is very much like what the Keep Washington Working Act Working Group um did in their final report, which they'll present to you next week.
Um they added a section that identified some items and interests they had that were outside the scope of work, but that they recommend the city do further uh work and exploration on. So, this is um pretty consistent with that.
>> [clears throat] >> Can we have it read one more time? Yep. Marilyn, are you able to read the handwriting? Yes. Thank you. >> [laughter] >> All right. So, this is a amendment uh to section three adding a new part G.
Says the work group may identify issues that go beyond the scope of work pertaining to current policies, requirements, and programs for inclusion in the final report for possible follow-up work by the city.
Marilyn. Anything further? I I think that's fair. I think um Administrator Keller identified that uh that was I think something that the Keep Washington Working Act group appreciated being able to have that parking lot concept.
Acknowledging that there were important issues that arose as their discovery and learning um within their defined scope of work that they wanted to highlight for possible follow-up. And that's the wording that I think is reflected in in the amendment.
Any other further discussion? Seeing none, so the amendment was brought forward by Councilmember Liliquist and seconded by Councilmember Anderson as read by Deputy Clerk um And there's no further discussion.
I'll call the question. All in favor will say aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0. So with that, that brings us back to the original motion. Which was brought forward by Councilmember Cotton and a second by Councilmember Williams.
Councilmember Haffner. Um Thanks to the staff for for putting this together and I I don't have a comment on the resolution in particular. I think um a lot of our conversation this afternoon was about uh our hopes for the makeup of this work group and that we get some um representative and diverse uh folks apply uh to be on the the work group and I think that the more people that are interested um in being on this work group, the more people that apply, um the richer this group work group will be.
And so um the more the more people that we have to choose from um to be on this work group. And so I would say if there are people out there that that are watching or listening who are interested, um look into it, see if this is something that would be of interest to you and if you have the time or if you know people who would be interested in a work group like this, um please spread the word.
Uh there are certain categories of particular interest that the city's looking for. Um tenant experience is was stated um preference with >> [snorts] >> applicants who are income constrained, students renting off-campus housing uh that represent vulnerable communities or have other experiences that reflect the diverse demographics of Bellingham renters, um landlord experience, at least three residents who are currently landlords or rental property managers, uh at least one individual with experience and training in building and construction trades and or inspections, non-profit housing, tenant advocacy.
I'll read it all word for word. Legal experience, at least one individual with legal legal experience in the area. And so if you know of anybody that fits that bill, please encourage them to seek out more information.
Um And with that, uh I'll be supporting the motion. Any further comments? Seeing none. All in favor will say aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0. That was our only agenda item, and so with that, end of committee report.
Thank you very much. The next committee this afternoon was Parks and Recreation. That committee is chaired by Councilmember Williams, so I'll turn it over to him for a report. Thank you very much, President Stone.
At our meeting today, I was joined by Councilmembers Hammel and Cotton. We had one point on our agenda as well. Agenda I'm sorry. Agenda bill 24926, which is a which is a resolution adopting the 2026 Parks and Recreation and Open Space Plan, commonly called the PROS Plan.
The Parks and Recreation and Open Space Plan is a long-range plan for improving our parks, our open space, our trails, and recreation programs over the next 20 years. And it's basically the development guide and a communication tool for the Parks and Recreation Department.
Following adoption of the Bellingham Plan in December 2025, the uh PROS Plan now functions as a standalone plan that is referenced in the comprehensive plan rather than a complete chapter of the comprehensive uh plan just like other areas are now separated and referenced in the comprehensive uh plan.
So, the goals and policies found in the parks and recreation chapter provide guidance for the projects and actions found in the PROS plan. So, this afternoon we received a rather thorough presentation of of the uh plan from parks and recreation staff and I'm just going to briefly cover a couple of items here.
First of all, the public engagement um process received a great deal of uh response from our community through surveys, inputs from the uh greenways advisory committee and the parks and recreation advisory board and also through four public meetings and five focus groups.
And the five [snorts] focus groups represented the breadth of our community, which is the Latino community, the adaptive community, young adults, recreation providers, and the seek community. So, I think that was a big step forward for us in reaching out.
Um the uh the uh draft plan was available for public review and comments via engage Bellingham and and were finally incorporated in to the final version. Um some of the results that came back to us were uh relating to the use of existing trails and natural areas, filling in gaps, especially in North Bellingham and and the Samish area, improvements in our parks like having restrooms and lighting and signage to improve accessibility and sponsor more family-friendly events overall and indoor recreation space including expanded aquatics and ice.
The plan also updates our facility inventories, level of service metrics, and long-range capital planning processes and continues to emphasize public feedback and funding strategies so that we can have a more sustainable operations and system growth.
The PROS plan is a shift from past plans because it's focusing more on maintaining and maximizing what we have. Since the last PROS plan, the system has expanded including the addition of several new parks and trails and also responds to the changing needs as identified by our community members as and is consistent with our anticipated growth allocations.
So, on that note, the plan is a required to maintain our eligibility for Washington State recreation and conservation grants and must be updated every 6 years and with this update needing to be completed by June of 2026.
In other words, in a month. The Parks and Recreation Board recommended approval on April 8th and the planning commission reviewed the plan and recommended approval on April 23rd. And so after discussion among the committee and the rest of the council, it it was moved to recommend approval.
And I so move. >> Second. Motion was made by Councilmember Williams and a second by Councilmember Hamel. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say aye. Aye. Any opposed or abstentions? Seeing none, that passes 7-0.
And I just want to add that if you want to see more detailed information about this, you can see it on the um city's website when the meeting uh today is posted. And with that, I adjourn the meeting and it's back to you.
Thank you very much. So we met just briefly this afternoon as the Committee of the Whole um simply for old and new business. There were no items at that time, but I'll bring it back forward. Any items to share for old and new?
Councilmember Haffner. Uh I recently attended the Procession of the Species again this year for the second time and was a participant in the parade with my giraffe. Um and so thanks to city staff, um law enforcement, I saw you out there as well.
Um it's just such a fun event that brings so much joy to not just the kids involved and the parents, but the spectators. Um there's there's nothing more that brings more joy than a cute kid being cute.
So um it's nice to fill downtown with that and Maritime Heritage Park was also full. Um the slides got a lot of mileage that day for sure. Um and I just really appreciate that um the city's able to help pull that off every year.
It's a it's a really fun event. So, thanks. Councilmember Anderson. Um so earlier today with uh when we talked about the parks department, we talked about partnerships. And um my grandson plays baseball and um they will be going through the state um bracket coming up here shortly, so go see home.
Also go London cuz they'll be playing Wednesday. But what I found to be um really nice to know is that the Washington State WIAA um 2A will be holding the state tournament um at our local um Joe Martin Field.
So, towards the end of the month, I think it's also going to be a very busy time of the year. You're going to see a lot of um high school um families coming from across the state um to watch their um their kids playing in a state tournament.
So, I'm really glad not necessarily that Bellingham is hosting it, but it is being hosted at our wonderful field. So, a good opportunity um and a good example of how parks department partners with outside agencies to use our resources.
And hopefully that'll bring in a little additional tourism and hotel. So, glad to see and I hope to see more of those opportunities happening in Bellingham, too. Any other items? Seeing none, we did not have any executive session items this afternoon.
So, with that we'll move to consent agenda. Second. Motion was made by Councilmember Lilliquist and a second by Councilmember Huffman. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. I. I. Any opposed or abstentions?
Seeing none, that passes 7-0. And then we have final consideration of ordinances. Okay. First up, we have agenda bill 24900, an ordinance amending the 2026 adopted budget, reconciling the differences between estimated 2026 beginning reserve balances and actual 2026 reserve balances, and applying the differences to the ending reserve balance.
Withdrawn by Councilman Hamel. Second. Motion was made by Council member Hamel and a second by Council member Huffman. Any discussion? Seeing none, roll call, please. Holly Huffman. I. Dan Hamel. I. Skip Williams.
I. Lisa Anderson. I. Michael Lilliquist. >> I. Jay Scott. I. Hannah Stone. I. All right. Motion passes 7-0. Next up, we have agenda bill 24901, an ordinance amending the 2026 budget increasing appropriation authority in various funds to pay for goods and services authorized in the previous budget cycle.
Move approval. Second. Motion was made by Council member Williams and a second by Council member Hamel. Any discussion? Seeing none, roll call, please. Holly Huffman. I. Dan Hamel. I. Skip Williams. I.
Lisa Anderson. I. Michael Lilliquist. I. Jay Scott. Hannah Stone. I. Motion passes 7-0. Okay. Next up, we have agenda bill 24902, an ordinance amending the 2026 budget amendment number one. Withdrawn by Councilman Second.
Second. Motion was made by Council member Hamel and a second by Council member Williams. Yeah. Any discussion? Seeing none, roll call, please. Hollie Huthman >> Aye. Dan Hammill >> Aye. Skip Williams >> Aye.
Lisa Anderson Aye. Michael Lilliquist >> Aye. J Scott Owen >> Aye. Hannah Stone Aye. Motion passes 7-0. And finally, we have agenda bill 24915, an ordinance regarding ambulances, amending Bellingham Municipal Code chapter 6.10 to establish penalties for misuse of the 911 dispatch system to obtain non-emergent lift assistance.
>> Move third and Second. Motion was made by Council member Hammill and a second by Council member Anderson. Any discussion? Seeing none, roll call, please. Hollie Huthman Aye. Dan Hammill >> Aye. Skip Williams >> Aye.
Lisa Anderson Aye. Michael Lilliquist Aye. J Scott Owen >> Aye. Hannah Stone Aye. Motion passes 7-0. Thank you very much. Just a reminder that the next meeting will be Monday, May 18th. And at this time, that concludes the regular business of the meeting, and we will now move to the public comment period.
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