City Council - Regular Meeting
City Council - Regular Meeting
Mon, February 9, 2026
Agenda items
Vote records
Discussion summary
Transcript
Meeting summaryAI-generated
Bellingham City Council — Regular Meeting — February 9, 2026
All seven council members were present for this regular meeting, which included a public hearing on surplus city property, several mayoral appointments, committee action on a new 911 center contract and commute trip reduction planning, and final passage of two ordinances.
Public Hearing: Surplus Declaration for 1504 and 1506 I Street
The council held a required public hearing before acting on a staff recommendation to declare two city-owned residential properties — a duplex in the Lettered Streets neighborhood — surplus to city needs, then transfer them to a nonprofit through a request-for-proposals process focused on affordable housing.
The properties have an unusual backstory: in 1990, the city conveyed them to the Opportunity Council for use as transitional housing, either as a grant or a $45,000 loan with a reversionary clause. The Opportunity Council recently informed city staff it could no longer continue the transitional housing program. Staff recommended the city exercise its reversionary interest — taking the property back rather than collecting the loan plus accrued interest (now valued at over $600,000) — because housing need in the community remains high. The property is estimated at roughly $710,000 in market value. Four nonprofits had already expressed informal interest in responding to an RFP.
Three members of the public spoke. Adam Bellinger raised practical questions about the property's condition — potential contamination, deferred maintenance, underground storage tanks in a 105-year-old building — and suggested the city might generate more affordable units by selling at market rate and using the proceeds to fund roughly a dozen tiny homes at ~$50,000 each, while also returning the property to the tax rolls. Michael (last name unclear from transcript) advocated for the property to be transferred to a community land trust such as Kulshan CLT, arguing CLT ownership requires fewer ongoing subsidies and creates permanent affordability. Carrie Burnside, board president of Future Home Buyers, urged the council to treat the RFP process as a values-driven decision, citing Vienna and Singapore as models for treating housing as essential infrastructure rather than a speculative asset. She called on the council to prioritize nonprofit ownership, long-term affordability, and stability for low- and very-low-income households.
Council discussion focused on whether the RFP should require prior experience operating housing programs, with Council Members Lilliquist and Anderson both urging staff to keep the process open to newer or emerging nonprofits — drawing a comparison to how Road to Home and On Time Homes were incubated with city support. Staff confirmed they could adjust RFP language to emphasize demonstrated *ability to deliver* rather than prior experience alone, and noted that for lower-acuity programs like this two-unit property, the bar could reasonably be flexible. No formal amendment to the motion was made; council trusted staff to evaluate proposals fairly.
Vote: Motion by Council Member Lilliquist, seconded by Council Member Williams, to declare the parcels surplus, designate for special disposition, and direct staff to sell by negotiation through an RFP process prioritizing long-term affordable housing. Passed 7–0.
Mayoral Appointments
Mayor Lind brought three slates of appointments, all requiring council approval.
Water Resources Advisory Board: Kristen Herr (first term), Kristen McDade (first full term), John Peell (first full term). Moved by Anderson, seconded by Huthman. Passed 7–0.
Whatcom Racial Equity Commission: Benny Spencer, Shariah Lane, Nisha Rando, and Sarah O'Connor (all first terms), co-appointed with County Executive Sadu; already approved by the County Council. Moved by Williams, seconded by Cotton. Passed 7–0.
Arts Commission: Patricia McDonald (first full term), Phillip Freight (first term). Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Huthman. Passed 7–0.
Council Assignment & Legislative Reports
Council Member Anderson reported on the Lake Whatcom Policy Group meeting, highlighting the aquatic invasive species program's first interception of a vessel fully encrusted with invasive mussels (fortunately dead). The program conducted 15,572 inspections and issued 7,127 permits in 2025. She also flagged that three land parcels in the Lake Whatcom watershed are being recommended to DNR for potential timber cutting, which she views with concern and intends to raise at the April 1 joint council/commissioners meeting.
Council Member Hamill reported on ride-alongs with the Alternative Response Team, Bellingham Police, and Bellingham Fire, as well as time spent at Whatcom (911 center) dispatch. He noted the alternative response team could benefit from expanded evening and weekend hours, and praised the professionalism of all first responders.
Council President Stone provided a legislative session update. Highlights included: a $1.5 million funding request for a day shelter; two transportation funding requests (Potter Street roundabout/Lincoln Street pedestrian improvements; Pine Street railroad crossings); a joint letter with the prosecutor and county executive urging preservation of LEAD funding; and an AWC letter opposing a proposed $75 million sweep of the Public Works Assistance Account. Director Lion testified on multiple housing and transportation bills, successfully securing an amendment to HB 2480 to preserve commercial ground-floor requirements in mixed-use zones.
Committee Reports
Public Works & Natural Resources (Chair: Lilliquist)
*Whatcom Emergency Communications Center Contract:* The council approved awarding a construction contract to Curushio Brothers, Inc. for a new WATCOM 911 center (Project EF183) at $12,763,390 — below the engineer's estimate of ~$13.4 million. The project is supported by a $970,000 state Commerce Department grant. Construction begins in March; the new facility is expected to be operational by summer 2027. The current 1954-era building (originally a fire station) will remain operational until the new center comes online. Moved by Lilliquist, seconded by Hamill. Passed 7–0.
*Commute Trip Reduction Plan 2025–2029:* The council adopted an ordinance updating the city's four-year CTR plan as required by state law (RCW 70A.15.4000). Two amendments were adopted before final passage: changing the weighted average drive-alone rate target from 64% to 57%, and striking Silfab Solar, Inc. from the list of affected worksites. The plan applies to 15 large employers (100+ employees) and is implemented in practice through the Whatcom Smart Trips program. Both amendments and the final ordinance passed 7–0.
*Whatcom Council of Governments Interlocal Agreement:* The council authorized the mayor to sign an interlocal agreement designating WCOG as lead agency for administering the city's CTR program and the Whatcom Smart Trips program through December 31, 2029, at a cost of $25,000 to the city. Passed 7–0.
Community & Economic Development (Chair: Cotton)
The committee recommended approval of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee grant recommendations for the Bellingham Fan Zone and the Downtown Activations and Beautification Program, funded through the hotel/motel lodging tax surcharge. Council could only approve or reject; they approved unanimously. Moved by Cotton, seconded by Williams. Passed 7–0.
Committee of the Whole (Chair: Stone)
The council confirmed Mayor Lind's appointment of Bridget Bryck of Carmichael Clark Law Firm as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission. The position was created by a 2023 code amendment to avoid conflicts of interest when the city attorney's office both advises the commission and represents the city in appeals. The previous special counsel relocated overseas. Moved by Stone, seconded by Anderson. Passed 7–0.
Consent Agenda
Approved in a single motion (7–0): payroll labor cost payments (Dec. 16–31, 2025); interlocal agreement with Whatcom County for probation services; AP transactions (Jan. 9–15, 2026).
Final Consideration of Ordinances
Second Municipal Judge Position (24813): Ordinance amending BMC 2.16.030 to create a second full-time municipal judge position, establish an appointment process for new or vacated positions, and set an election for the second judge's full term beginning January 1, 2030. Passed 7–0 on roll call.
NFC Northwest Fiber Optic Franchise (24808): Ordinance granting NFC Northwest, LLC a franchise to install and operate fiber optic broadband network components in city rights-of-way for commercial telecommunications services to businesses and residents. Passed 7–0 on roll call.
Executive Session
The council received information on a potential litigation matter — Claim No. 2025-36 (Phillips). No action was taken.
Key Takeaways
1504/1506 I Street surplus declaration approved: The city will reclaim this duplex from the Opportunity Council through a reversionary clause and issue an RFP for a nonprofit to operate it as permanently affordable or transitional housing, with staff directed to keep the process open to emerging organizations, not just established operators.
New Whatcom 911 center contract awarded: A $12.76 million construction contract will replace a cramped 1954-era facility; the new center should be operational by summer 2027.
Second municipal judge position created: An ordinance establishes a new full-time judge seat on the Municipal Court, with a public election for a full term starting January 1, 2030.
Commute Trip Reduction Plan updated: The city adopted a tougher drive-alone target (57% vs. the previous 64%) and renewed its partnership with WCOG to administer the Smart Trips program through 2029.
Landmark tree regulations: A public hearing is scheduled for February 23 on extending interim landmark tree protections for an additional six months — residents may submit written testimony at cob.org/publichearing.
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 granting NFC Northwest, LLC a franchise to operate and maintain fiber optic broadband network components in City rights-of-way for the provision of commercial telecommunications services to businesses and residents
The City Council considered an ordinance granting NFC Northwest LLC a franchise to operate and maintain fiber optic broadband network components in city rights of way for commercial telecommunication services to businesses and residents. Council Member Hamill moved and Council Member Williams seconded the motion. No discussion was raised. The ordinance passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
An ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending Bellingham Municipal Code section 2.16.030 to provide for the creation of a second full-time municipal judge position, an appointment process for newly created or vacated municipal judge positions, and an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning on
The City Council considered an ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending BMC section 2.16.030 to create a second full-time municipal judge position, establish an appointment process for newly created or vacated positions, and authorize an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning January 1st, 2030. Council Member Hamill moved and Council Member Husman seconded the motion. No discussion was raised. The ordinance passed 7-0 on roll call vote.
Mayor's appointments to the Water Resources Advisory Board (approval)
Mayor Lind sought approval to appoint Kristen Herr to a first term and reappoint Kristen McDade and John Peell to first full terms on the Water Resources Advisory Board. A motion was made by Council Member Anderson and seconded by Council Member Husman. With no discussion or questions raised, the motion passed 7-0.
Mayor's appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission (approval)
Mayor Lind, co-appointing alongside Executive Sadu, sought approval for appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission: Benny Spencer, Shariah Lane, Nisha Rando, and Sarah Okconor, all to their first terms. The Mayor noted these appointments had already passed at the county council. A motion was made by Council Member Williams and seconded by Council Member Cotton, and the motion passed 7-0.
Mayor's appointments to the Arts Commission (approval)
Mayor Lind sought approval to reappoint Patricia McDonald to a first full term and reappoint Phillip Freight to a first term on the Bellingham Arts Commission. A motion was made by Council Member Liloquist and seconded by Council Member Husman. With no discussion or questions, the motion passed 7-0.
Agenda items (25)
Procedural (9)
1ProceduralIn-person: Headsets are available to attendees in Council Chambers.
Headsets are available for in-person attendees in Council Chambers to help hear the meeting.
3ProceduralUpcoming public hearing On February 23, 2026, the City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance relating to the preservation of landmark trees and extending interim development regulations with respect to landmark trees throughout the city for an additional six months. Details can be found at cob.org/meetings six days before the public hearing. Written testimony may be submitted in advance of the public hearing at cob.org/publichearing. Comments received at least eight days before the hearing will be included in the published Council packet. Comments received after the deadline will be distributed to all Council Members but will not be published in the packet. Instructions on speaking at the public hearing can be found on this agenda under the heading “how to provide input.”
On February 23, 2026, the City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance to preserve landmark trees and extend interim development regulations for six months; written comments can be submitted in advance at cob.org/publichearing.
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 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:
Both online and in-person sign-ups to speak close at 7 p.m., after which speakers can participate through various options.
6ProceduralIn person: Meetings are held in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall.
City Council meetings are held 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 participate in meetings online by joining the Zoom meeting at cob.org/cczoom and 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 253-215-8782 and enter Meeting ID 871 5188 5205 with Password 9 to participate by phone.
9ProceduralBy mail addressed to: City Council, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225.
Written public comment can be mailed to City Council, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 before or after meetings.
10ProceduralOnline: o For a public hearing: cob.org/publichearing. o For general public comment: E-mail all Council Members at ccmail@cob.org.
Written testimony for public hearings can be submitted at cob.org/publichearing, and general public comment can be emailed to all council members at ccmail@cob.org.
Council Business
2Council BusinessOld or new business
Council members can raise other old or new business items not on the formal agenda.
24822Council BusinessDiscussion regarding the surplus declaration process for 1504 I Street and 1506 I Street
The Council will discuss the process for declaring the two I Street properties as surplus.
What happened
Council Member Cotton reported that the Community and Economic Development Committee discussed the surplus declaration process for 1504 and 1506 I Street, noting that action had been taken earlier in the evening on this item.24823Council BusinessConsideration of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee grant recommendations for the Bellingham Fan Zone and Downtown Activations and Beautification
The Council will consider grant recommendations from the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee for a Bellingham Fan Zone and downtown beautification projects.
What happened
The Community and Economic Development Committee unanimously recommended approval of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee grant recommendations for the Bellingham Fan Zone and downtown activations and beautification program, funded through lodging tax revenue. Council Member Cotton moved approval, seconded by Council Member Williams, and the motion passed unanimously 7-0.24826Council BusinessContract award for What-comm Emergency Communications Center,
The Council will award a contract for emergency communications services at the What-comm Emergency Communications Center.
What happened
Council Member Liiloquist presented a contract award for the Whatcom Emergency Communications Center (Project EF-183), reporting that Corushio Brothers, Inc. submitted the lowest responsive bid at $12,763,000.80. The approximately $13 million project will construct a new 911 communications center to replace the existing aging facility built in 1954, with grant funding of $970,000 from the Washington State Department of Commerce. Council Member Hamill emphasized the importance of this project for both facility workers and public safety, noting the current building is very small and compact, and the new facility will provide a better work environment. The committee unanimously voted to approve the contract, and the Council voted 7-0 in favor, with construction expected to begin in March and the facility operational by summer 2027.24827Council BusinessConfirmation of Mayor's appointment of Bridget Bryck as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission
The Council will confirm the Mayor's appointment of Bridget Bryck as special counsel to the Civil Service Commission.
What happened
# Summary: Confirmation of Mayor's Appointment of Bridget Bryck as Special CounselThe Committee of the Whole considered Mayor Kim Lond's appointment of attorney Bridget Bryck as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission, subject to City Council confirmation under BMC 3.16.040. City Attorney Alan Mariner recommended Bryck, an attorney at Carmichael Clark Law Firm specializing in municipal law and labor/employment matters, noting that the commission frequently requires legal advice on regular business and appeals. Council Member Anderson seconded the motion, which passed unanimously 7-0 with no discussion or opposition.
24828Council BusinessAn interlocal agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments for administration of the Commute Trip Reduction Program and the Whatcom
The Council will approve an agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments to manage the Commute Trip Reduction Program.
What happened
Council Member Liiloquist introduced a second agenda item concerning an interlocal agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments for administration of the Commute Trip Reduction program, which accompanies the CTR ordinance and plan discussed previously. Staff presented the agreement, which covers administration of both the Commute Trip Reduction and Smart Trips programs through December 31, 2029, aligning with the newly adopted CTR plan period. The agreement carries a financial impact of $25,000 from the city to WCOG. The committee unanimously recommended authorizing the mayor to sign the agreement, passing the motion 7-0.24829Council BusinessAn ordinance adopting a four-year Commute Trip Reduction Plan for 2025- 2029 and implementing measures as required by RCW 70A.15.4000
The Council will adopt a four-year plan (2025-2029) requiring employers to reduce commute trips by employees as mandated by state law.
What happened
# SummaryCouncil Member Liiloquist presented an ordinance adopting a four-year Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) Plan for 2025-2029, required under state law RCW 70.15.400 to maintain consistency with the Growth Management Act. The plan addresses key goals including improving multimodal transportation, supporting compact development, sustainable land practices, and ensuring equitable transportation options for all community members. Council Member Anderson successfully moved to amend the performance target for drive-alone rates from 64% to 57% and to remove Silfab Solar, Inc. from the list of affected work sites. The ordinance, which fulfills the city's CTR obligations for large employers with 100+ employees through participation in the Whatcom Council of Governments' Smart Trips program, passed unanimously 7-0.
Ordinance
24808OrdinanceAn ordinance granting NFC Northwest, LLC a franchise to operate and maintain fiber optic broadband network components in City rights-of-way for the provision of commercial telecommunications services to businesses and residents
The Council will grant NFC Northwest, LLC permission to install and operate fiber optic broadband cables in city streets to provide internet service to residents and businesses.
What happened
The City Council considered an ordinance granting NFC Northwest LLC a franchise to operate and maintain fiber optic broadband network components in city rights of way for commercial telecommunication services to businesses and residents. Council Member Hamill moved and Council Member Williams seconded the motion. No discussion was raised. The ordinance passed 7-0 on roll call vote.24813OrdinanceAn ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending Bellingham Municipal Code section 2.16.030 to provide for the creation of a second full-time municipal judge position, an appointment process for newly created or vacated municipal judge positions, and an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning on
The Council will pass an ordinance creating a second full-time municipal judge position and establishing a process for appointing and electing judges.
What happened
The City Council considered an ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending BMC section 2.16.030 to create a second full-time municipal judge position, establish an appointment process for newly created or vacated positions, and authorize an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning January 1st, 2030. Council Member Hamill moved and Council Member Husman seconded the motion. No discussion was raised. The ordinance passed 7-0 on roll call vote.Public Hearing
24817Public HearingMayor's appointments to the Water Resources Advisory Board (approval)
The Council will vote on approving the Mayor's appointments to the Water Resources Advisory Board.
What happened
Mayor Lind sought approval to appoint Kristen Herr to a first term and reappoint Kristen McDade and John Peell to first full terms on the Water Resources Advisory Board. A motion was made by Council Member Anderson and seconded by Council Member Husman. With no discussion or questions raised, the motion passed 7-0.24818Public HearingMayor's appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission (approval)
The Council will vote on approving the Mayor's appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission.
What happened
Mayor Lind, co-appointing alongside Executive Sadu, sought approval for appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission: Benny Spencer, Shariah Lane, Nisha Rando, and Sarah Okconor, all to their first terms. The Mayor noted these appointments had already passed at the county council. A motion was made by Council Member Williams and seconded by Council Member Cotton, and the motion passed 7-0.24819Public HearingMayor's appointments to the Arts Commission (approval)
The Council will vote on approving the Mayor's appointments to the Arts Commission.
What happened
Mayor Lind sought approval to reappoint Patricia McDonald to a first full term and reappoint Phillip Freight to a first term on the Bellingham Arts Commission. A motion was made by Council Member Liloquist and seconded by Council Member Husman. With no discussion or questions, the motion passed 7-0.24824Public HearingA public hearing regarding the surplus property declaration of 1504 I Street and 1506 I Street
The City Council will hold a public hearing on whether to declare two properties at 1504 and 1506 I Street as surplus.
What happened
# Summary: Public Hearing on Surplus Property Declaration of 1504 and 1506 I StreetStaff presented a public hearing on the surplus property declaration of 1504 and 1506 I Street, a 2,200 square foot property formerly operated as transitional housing by the Opportunity Council for 36 years. Community and Economic Development Manager Terara Sundine explained that the city has the option to reclaim the property or receive repayment of the original $145,000 loan plus accrued interest (valued at over $600,000 today), and staff recommended reclaiming it to address continued high community need for housing. Public commenters raised diverse perspectives: Adam Bellinger suggested selling at market rate (~$700,000-$800,000) for tiny home villages, while Michael Shabario and Carrie advocated for affordable housing solutions, with Shabario recommending community land trust conversion and Carrie urging the city to treat the property as essential infrastructure rather than a speculative asset. Council Member Liiloquist moved to approve the parcels as surplus and designate them for special disposition through a negotiated RFP process, prioritizing long-term affordable housing and encouraging new housing operators beyond just experienced organizations; the motion passed 7-0. Staff indicated willingness to adjust RFP criteria to consider newer entities while maintaining sound program standards, and four nonprofit agencies have already expressed interest in responding to the RFP.
Consent Calendar
24820Consent CalendarAuthorization of payroll labor cost payments dated December 16, 2025 to
The Council will authorize payment of payroll and labor costs dated December 16, 2025.
24821Consent CalendarAn interlocal agreement with Whatcom County for probation services
The Council will approve an agreement with Whatcom County for probation services.
24825Consent CalendarAuthorization of AP transactions issued January 9, 2026 through January 15, 2026
The Council will authorize payment of accounts payable transactions issued between January 9 and January 15, 2026.
Additional votes recorded in minutes
Declare 1504 and 1506 I Street surplus and designate for special disposition
aye 1
voice voteaye
Appoint Kristen Her, Kristen McDade, and John Peell to Water Resources Advisory Board
aye 1
voice voteaye
Appoint Benny Spencer, Shariah Lane, Nisha Rando, and Sarah Okconor to Whatcom Racial Equity Commission
aye 1
voice voteaye
Appoint Patricia McDonald and Phillip Freight to Bellingham Arts Commission
aye 1
voice voteaye
Award contract for Whatcom Emergency Communications Center (Project EF-183)
aye 1
voice voteaye
Amend CTR plan performance target (drive alone rate changed from 64% to 57%)
aye 1
voice voteaye
Amend CTR plan to strike Silfab Solar, Inc. from list of affected worksites
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt ordinance for 4-year Commute Trip Reduction Plan 2025-2029
aye 1
voice voteaye
Authorize interlocal agreement with Whatcom Council of Governments for CTR and Smart Trips program
aye 1
voice voteaye
Approve lodging tax advisory committee grant recommendations for Bellingham Fan Zone and downtown activations
aye 1
voice voteaye
Confirm appointment of Bridget Brick as special counsel to Bellingham Civil Service Commission
aye 1
voice voteaye
Approve consent agenda
aye 1
voice voteaye
Adopt ordinance amending BMC 2.16.030 creating second full-time municipal judge position (Agenda Bill 24813)
aye 7
Daniel Hammillaye
Edwin Williamsaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Adopt ordinance granting NFC Northwest LLC franchise for fiber optic broadband network (Agenda Bill 24808)
aye 7
Daniel Hammillaye
Edwin Williamsaye
Hannah Stoneaye
Hollie Huthmanaye
Jace Cottonaye
Lisa Andersonaye
Michael Lilliquistaye
Verbatim transcript available
248 transcript segments indexed
City of Bellingham City Council Regular Meeting minutes February 9, 2026, 7:00 PM 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, February 9th, 2026. Thank you for joining us this evening. I'm going to officially call the meeting to order and we will begin with roll call.
>> Holly Husman >> here. >> Dan Hamill >> here. >> Skip Williams >> here. >> Lisa Anderson >> here. >> Michael Lilloquist >> here. >> Jace Cotton >> here. >> Hannah Stone >> here. All council members are present.
Call to order and roll call The meeting was called to order by Council President Stone at 7:00 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.
Thank you very much. So, beginning this evening with announcements and upcoming meetings, the Bellingham City Council meets all requirements of the State of Washington Open Public Meetings Act. Next, we will have the land acknowledgement.
"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.
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.
Is there a council member who would like to read the land acknowledgement this evening? Council member Williams. Before we begin, we acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional and unseated territory of the Lummy, Noosack, Samish, and Seamyu 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 we begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth.
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.
We pay respect to their elders past and present. And so please take a moment to consider the 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.
Thank you, Council Member Williams. So for language access, the Bellingham City Council provides Spanish interpretation at all regular evening meetings. Interpretation can be accessed in person can access by inperson attendees by utilizing the headsets which are located at the front of the room.
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 Public Hearing On February 23, 2026, the City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance relating to the preservation of landmark trees and extending interim development regulations with respect to landmark trees throughout the city for an additional six months.
Remote viewers can log in on to co.orgccoom og/cczoom and click on the language icon at the bottom of the screen to listen in Spanish. upcoming public hearing. So, at our next meeting on February 23rd, 2026, the city council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance relating to the preservation of landmark trees and extending interim development regulations with respect to landmark trees throughout the city for an additional 6 months.
Details can be found at meetings.cob.org six days before the public hearing. Written testimony may be submitted in advance of the public hearing at cob.org/publichearing. Comments received at least eight days before the hearing will be included in the published Council packet.
Details can be found at co.org/meings 6 days before the public hearing. Written testimony may be submitted in advance of the public hearing at co.orgpublic hearing. Comments received at least 8 days before the hearing will be included in the published council packet.
Comments received after the deadline will be distributed to all council members, but will not be published in the packet. Instructions on speaking at the public hearing can be found on this agenda under the heading how to provide input.
Comments received after the deadline will be distributed to all Council Members but will not be published in the packet. Instructions on speaking at the public hearing can be found on this agenda under “how to provide input.” 4.
Just to let you know, as previously mentioned, our next council meeting will be held on February 23rd, 2026. So, we will begin this evening with the public hearing. Again, this is agenda bill 24824. So this is a public hearing regarding the surplus property declaration of 1504 I Street and 1506 I Street.
Next Council meeting The next City Council meeting will be held on February 23, 2026. Public hearing 24824 1. A public hearing regarding the surplus property declaration of 1504 I p. 6 Street and 1506 I Street Summary: Tara Sundin, Community and Economic Development Manager, presented the surplus property declaration for 1504 I Street and 1506 I Street.
Council Members discussed the proposal and asked questions. Action: Council President Stone opened the public hearing. Three individuals provided testimony. Council President Stone closed the public hearing.
Pursuant to BMC 4.84, the real estate review committee has attached its report and advises the city council to do the following. One, declare 1504 and 1506 I Street surplus to the city's needs. Number two, designate the property for the special disposition process.
And three, direct staff to sell the property by negotiation through a request for proposals process. The city council is required to hold a public hearing prior to taking the recommended actions. And so, we are here this evening for that public hearing.
Action: Michael Lilliquist / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved to recommend approval of the subject parcels, 1504 I Street and 506 I Street, as surplus and designate the property for special disposition through a negotiated sale using a request for proposals process.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Page 2 of 9 Appointments 24817 1. Mayor's appointments to the Water Resources Advisory Board (approval) p. 27 Summary: Mayor Lund recommended several appointments to the Water Resources Advisory Board for Council's approval.
Um, I will first turn to Terara Sundine, who's the community and economic development manager for the city. >> Thank you. Good evening. I just have a few uh slides to share with you before you open the public hearing.
First uh just to provide you with a location map here. Um the subject parcel is located in the Letterard Streets neighborhood between Dupont and Holly Street on I Street, the 1500 block. The property is about 2200 square ft.
Action: Lisa Anderson / Hollie Huthman moved to approve the Mayor’s appointments of the following members to the Water Resources Advisory Board: • Appoint Kristin Haider to a first term on the expiring on February 9, 2029 • Reappoint Kirsten McDade to a first full term expiring on January 29, 2029 • Reappoint John Peppel to a first full term expiring on January 29, 2029 MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
It was um at at one time a single family house and at another time transitioned into a duplex. We have two uh twobedroom one bath units around $1,100 square ft each. We estimate the market value to be around $710,000.
24818 2. Mayor's appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission p. 39 (approval) Summary: Mayor Lund recommended several appointments to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission for Council's approval.
Action: Edwin H. "Skip" Williams / Jace Cotton moved to approve the Mayor’s appointment of the following members to the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission: • Benny Spencer (District 1) • Sharayah Lane (District 2) • Neesha Randeo (District 5) • Sara O'Connor (District 5) MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
There's a few parking stalls and um this is the view looking at the property from I Street. I've mentioned that this property was a surprise to city staff. Um this was a transaction that occurred 36 years ago.
24819 3. Mayor's appointments to the Arts Commission (approval) p. 54 Summary: Mayor Lund recommended several appointments to the Arts Commission for Council's approval. Page 3 of 9 Action: Michael Lilliquist / Hollie Huthman moved to approve the Mayor’s appointment of the following members to the Arts Commission: • Patricia McDonnell to a first full term expiring on January 1, 2030 • Phillip Freytag to a first full term expiring on January 22, 2030 MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
Uh the city conveyed this property to the opportunity council for transitional housing and they have since been operating that program recently informed my team that they were no longer shifted priorities and were no longer able to continue operating the property as transitional housing.
When we conveyed the property back in 1990, we included a couple of terms for what uh uh for what happens if the property is no longer used as transitional housing. And one of those options is to uh revert back to city ownership.
Council assignment reports Standing time for Council Member reports from assigned committees, boards, and other groups. Summary: Council Member Anderson shared an update from the February 4th Lake Whatcom Policy Group meeting.
And the other one is for the opportunity council to pay us back the value of the loan plus the acred interest. And that would be we we transferred um that asset at a a loan of $140 thou $45,000. The value of that would be over $600,000 today.
The meeting focused on aquatic invasive species program and staff mitigation efforts to prevent invasive mussels in our waters. They also reviewed the upcoming agenda for the April 4th Joint Lake Whatcom Council meeting in Council chambers.
So Steph um and the real estate team um are recommending that we go with the revisionary um option which means the city would get the property back. And the reason for that is we think the needs are still very high in our community.
Council Member Hammill thanked the alternate response team (ART) for a ride-a-long and the team’s support for community members in crisis. He expressed support for expanding ART program availability to evenings and weekends.
we know they are. Uh so we'd like to retain this property rather than it going on the on the market, retain it for use by other community organizations. Before making this recommendation to you today, we did reach out to the nonprofit community to make sure that there was some interest there.
Council Member Hammill reported that he participated in a civics class from Options High School where students asked thoughtful questions about the City’s budget. Council Member Hammill thanked BPD staff for a nighttime public safety ride-a-long.
Council Member Hammill thanked Fire Chief Hewett for providing a high-level public safety overview of the City’s needs during a recent ride-a-long. He also thanked WhatComm staff for allowing him to shadow dispatch calls and emphasized the need for modern infrastructure.
And we received, we probably sent it out to 25 or so agencies and we received letters of interest from four uh indicating that they had some interest in responding to a future RFP or request for proposals if one was presented.
Council Member Hammill thanked Rebecca Judd, Library Director, for a recent tour of four library branches. Council President Stone shared a lobbying update as the state is nearly halfway through its 60-day session.
doesn't mean those four will or they have to or others won't come forward. But we're confident that if we receive the property back, we will we will have some opportunities to to keep that serving our community.
The City has engaged in a variety of activities, including advocating for $1.5 million funding for a day shelter, two transportation projects for the Potter Street roundabout and pedestrian improvements on Lincoln Street and railroad improvements on Pine Street.
So following tonight's hearing, these are required steps and uh uh in under excuse me BMC 4.84 84. Um, this the council needs to declare that this property is surplus to our our needs. That means the city doesn't have a use internal use for this residential property.
The City signed onto letters expressing support for LEED funding, and an AWC letter urging preservation of Public Works Assistance Fund Account. Planning and Community Development Director Blake Lyon testified on several housing related bills including HB 2480, HB 5633, SB 6633, SB 5609, SB 6274, and SB 2266.
Uh, that you'll designate the property for special disposition. This means that we can go below market rate um and consider public benefit, which serving uh lowincome or extremely low-income households is.
and then finally direct staff to sell the property by negotiation through an RFP process. Now, following the public hearing, if council declares um this property surplus, our next steps are to issue an RFP.
More information is available on the state government relations page, cob.org/state-government-relations. Page 4 of 9 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. Committee meetings are open to the public to attend, however committee agendas do not include public comment sessions.
The RFP's been drafted and it's either going to go out tomorrow or the following day. We're trying to move as quickly as we possibly can because the property is currently vacant. Uh we then will select and negotiate a recipient.
Like all of our RFPs, it outlines criteria. Um we're going to be looking for an operator that's responsible, that has experience operating properties. We're looking for an operator that can uh assure us that they can take care of the property and maintain it uh and meet the goals outlined in our consolidated plan, among other things.
Public Works and Natural Resources 1 p.m. 24826 1. Contract award for What-comm Emergency Communications Center, p. 61 Project EF183, Bid No. 59B-2025 Summary: Joel Pfundt, Public Works Director, and Carol Rofkar, Public Works Assistant Director - Internal Services, presented the contract award for the WhatComm Emergency Communications Center Project EF183.
The project will replace an aging and failing facility building. Colacurcio Brothers, Inc. was the responsible bidder who submitted the lowest responsive bid of $12,763,390.80, including any applicable sales or use tax.
And then finally we will execute two transactions backtoback. This isn't something we do every day but um we have confirmed with the title company that we can uh in the same day take back ownership officially from the opportunity council and moments later transfer ownership to another entity and so that is the process that we are proposing at this stage.
Council Members discussed the contract award and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Daniel Hammill moved to award contract 59B-2025 for the WhatComm Emergency Communications Center Project EF183 to Colacurcio Brothers, Inc.in the amount of $12,763,390.80.
Thank you very much. Great. Any clarifying questions from council before we open the public hearing? Seeing none, we will first open the public hearing and then we will return for further questions. How many people do we have signed up?
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 24829 2. An ordinance adopting a four-year Commute Trip Reduction Plan for p. 67 2025-2029 and implementing measures as required by RCW 70A.15.4000 Summary: Tim Hohmann, Public Works Assistant Director - Transportation, and Dylan Casper, Transportation Planner, presented the ordinance adopting a four-year Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) Plan for 2025-2029 to ensure compliance with RCW 70A.15.4000.
>> We have three individuals signed up. >> Uh so we'll start first off with Adam Bellinger and then we'll move online to Carrie Bernstein and Michael Shabario. Evening council. My name is Adam Bellinger.
Um I had a couple questions about this and then a possible suggestion about how to deal with this uh specific situation. Um, one was the property inspected, um, tested for any sort of contamination issues like, uh, meth and, um, also deferred maintenance.
The CTR program establishes requirements for affected employers to encourage alternative commute modes and reduce single-occupant vehicle commute trips. In connection with the ordinance, an interlocal agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments (WCOG) is required to administer the program.
Um, underground storage tanks because this is a 105y old building at least. Um, that just if the city's going to take back the property, we should at least understand what it is we have. Um, and then I think it would also be good to understand what led to the opportunity council not running transitional housing.
Council Members discussed the ordinance and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved for first and second reading as amended. Page 5 of 9 Action: Lisa Anderson / Michael Lilliquist moved to amend the plan to set a 57% drive-alone-rate to align with the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
AMENDMENT CARRIED 7-0. Action: Lisa Anderson / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved to amend the plan by removing SilFab Solar Inc. as a City of Bellingham site. AMENDMENT CARRIED 7-0. AMENDED MOTION CARRIED 7-0.
Was it a funding um uh change? Was it a operational obsolescence of this property? Uh, because I think it might just not make sense um to be really running this as a a a low-income housing property. What I think as which leads me to my next um uh suggestion here is um if the home's worth between 7 and 800,000, the assessor values it closer to 800,000, maybe the best use for those dollars would be to sell the property on the market and then sequester those funds for something like tiny home villages.
We're currently building them at around 50,000 a unit. Um, so that would put us in the neighborhood of uh a dozen tiny homes from the sale of this property potentially. And then uh it would also bring the property back into the tax rules.
24828 3. An interlocal agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments for p. 99 administration of the Commute Trip Reduction Program and the Whatcom Smart Trips Program Summary: Tim Hohmann, Public Works Assistant Director - Transportation, and Dylan Casper, Transportation Planner, presented the interlocal agreement (ILA) with the Whatcom Council of Governments for administration of the Commute Trip Reduction Program and the Whatcom Smart Trips Program.
The ILA is required with the passing of the ordinance to adopt the four-year Commute Trip Reduction Plan for 2025-2029. Council Members discussed the ILA and asked questions. Action: Michael Lilliquist / Edwin H.
And so the city would be getting the incremental uh uh annual taxes. It's uh about 6,600 a year for uh if this was on the tax roles. So anyway, those are my thoughts on it and I would um look forward to hearing what uh you have to say.
"Skip" Williams moved to recommend approval of the interlocal agreement with the Whatcom Council of Governments for administration of the Commute Trip Reduction Program and the Whatcom Smart Trips Program.
Thanks. >> Thank you, Adam. Okay, we're going to move to Michael uh online. Michael, you can go ahead and um unmute and turn on your camera if you wish. And then I've been trying to promote Carrie Burnside.
Carrie, if you are listening, uh, please go ahead and accept the promotion to panelists when you see it on your screen. Um, but go ahead, Michael. >> Hi, you guys. I'm really pleased that uh, the city has decided that affordability is going to be the uh, the motivator for what use is decided for these potentially four homes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Community and Economic Development 1:35 p.m. 24822 1. Discussion regarding the surplus declaration process for 1504 I Street p. 107 and 1506 I Street Summary: Tara Sundin, Community and Economic Development Manager, presented the surplus declaration process for 1504 I Street and 1506 I Street.
In 1990, the City conveyed the Page 6 of 9 properties to the Opportunity Council, who no longer intends to operate the property as a transitional housing facility. A public hearing will be held at tonight's regular meeting to allow for public input.
Um, I'm uh I understand that there's an RFP process and that uh I'm here to recommend that the those homes be converted to community land trust homes and that would require uh likely Culson Community Land Trust to submit an RFP.
Council Members discussed the surplus declaration and asked questions. 24823 2. Consideration of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee grant p. 128 recommendations for the Bellingham Fan Zone and Downtown Activations and Beautification Program Summary: Tara Sundin, Community and Economic Development Manager, presented grants for Council's consideration as recommended by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) for the Bellingham Fan Zone and Downtown Activations and Beautification Program.
Um, and I just want to promote the idea of of why the city should be particularly open to that uh to an RFP from a community land trust. CLT homes require much less permanent subsidies than uh than other affordable homes.
Um, CLT owners do their own maintenance. The previous speaker talked about is concerned about what condition the the buildings are in and uh the costs of maintenance and such. And CLT home owners uh take care of their their own maintenance because they can uh they can often afford to because the mortgage prices are way lower like a third to a fourth of what market uh market rents are.
Council Members discussed the LTAC recommendations and asked questions. Action: Jace Cotton / Edwin H. "Skip" Williams moved to recommend approval of the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) grant recommendations for the Bellingham Fan Zone and Downtown Activations and Beautification Program.
Um and according to the commerce department of the state of Washington, uh the primary cause of homelessness is high rents. So if we get four families who become permanently affordable homeowners through a community land trust system, there will be four fewer potential uh families that are out on the street.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Committee Of The Whole 2:05 p.m. 24827 1. Confirmation of Mayor's appointment of Bridget Bryck as special counsel p. 133 to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission Summary: Alan Marriner, City Attorney, presented the appointment of Bridget Bryck as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission, subject to confirmation by Bellingham City Council under BMC 3.16.040.
And again, I want to thank you all for uh focusing on affordability with this property. It is exactly the right thing to do. And that's all I have to say. Thank you. >> Thank you, Michael. >> Thank you.
Council Members discussed the appointment and asked questions. Action: Hannah Stone / Lisa Anderson moved to recommend approval of Bridget Bryck as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission.
Uh Carrie, go ahead and uh unmute and turn on your camera if you'd like. >> Thank you. Good evening, council members. My name is Carrie Burnside and I serve as the board president of the Future Home Buyers organization.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 2. Old or new business Page 7 of 9 Summary: Council President Stone highlighted the “Flexible Spending” article in the CityVision magazine,” featuring the City’s use of real estate excise taxes (REET) to fund projects such as the Library renovation and tiny home villages.
Executive session 2:25 p.m. 1. Potential litigation: claim no. 2025-36 (Phillips, approx. 15 min.) Summary: Staff provided information on a potential litigation matter. For information and discussion.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak this evening. For 36 years, this duplex has served low-income families through the opportunity council. It's one of the rare examples of a property that has quietly and consistently provided stability for people who need it most.
As the city prepares to exercise its reversionary interest and reclaim ownership, we have a critical opportunity. Not just to transfer a parcel, but to decide what kind of housing system we want to build for the next generation.
No action taken. Consent agenda 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.
Around the world, cities facing the same pressures we faced, rising costs, limited land, and displacement, have found solutions at work. Vienna and Singapore are two of the most successful examples. They didn't get lucky.
24820 1. Authorization of payroll labor cost payments dated December 16, 2025 to p. 134 December 31, 2025 24821 2. An interlocal agreement with Whatcom County for probation services p. 135 24825 3. Authorization of AP transactions issued January 9, 2026 through January p.
156 15, 2026 Action: Daniel Hammill / Michael Lilliquist moved approval of the Consent Agenda in its entirety. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Final consideration of ordinances 24813 1. An ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending Bellingham p.
They made different choices. Vienna treats housing as essential infrastructure. More than half of its residents live in mixed income, permanently affordable homes built by public and limited profit developers.
Rents are tied to the actual cost of construction and maintenance, not to speculation. And because the city banks land for public benefit, development remains stable and predictable. Singapore took a different path but reached the same outcome.
157 Municipal Code section 2.16.030 to provide for the creation of a second full-time municipal judge position, an appointment process for newly created or vacated municipal judge positions, and an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning on January 1, 2030 Page 8 of 9 Action: Daniel Hammill / Hollie Huthman 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 #2026-02-002.
By stewarding land publicly and pling planning housing alongside transit, schools and services, they created a system where 80% of residents live in highquality affordable homes. Their resell rules prevent speculation from eroding affordability over time.
Both models share a simple principle. Housing becomes affordable when we stop treating land as a speculative asset and start treating homes as essential infrastructure. Tonight's decision is small in scale, but large in meaning.
24808 2. An ordinance granting NFC Northwest, LLC a franchise to operate and p. 161 maintain fiber optic broadband network components in City rights-of-way for the provision of commercial telecommunications services to businesses and residents 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 #2026-02-003.
Declaring this property surplus is not inherently harmful if the city ensures that the next steward is a mission-driven community-based organization capable of providing permanently affordable housing or transitional housing comparable to what the opportunity council offered for decades.
Public comment period City Council heard public comments from three individuals. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m. Hannah Stone, Council President ATTEST: Kelley Goetz, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED: 3/9/2026 Page 9 of 9
I urge you to use the special disposition process not as a procedural step but as a value [clears throat] valuesdriven one. Prioritize nonprofit ownership. Prioritize long-term affordability. Prioritize stability for low and very low income households.
This partial is too important and too rare to be lost to the speculative market. We have the opportunity and the responsibility to choose differently. Thank you for your time and good evening. >> Thank you, Carrie.
>> That concluded the signup. >> Okay. Thank you very much. Anyone else present wishing to speak to this matter? Okay, seeing none, we will close the public hearing and bring it back to council. Council member Liiloquist.
>> Yeah, let me begin by moving this to approve the subject parcels as surplus city needs and to designate the property for special disposition through negotiated sale using a request for proposals process uh which values affordable uh long-term housing.
>> Second. Um motion by council member Liiloquist and a second by council member Williams. Council member Council Member Liquist. >> Yeah. So I mean I'm very much in favor of this, but there's one thing by the description, Miss Sundine, which raised a little concern for me, which is you said you would I'm looking for someone to take this over to use it as affordable housing.
You were looking for an experienced operator. That may be a problem. One of the things that we need to do is grow more housing operators, more nonprofits. So it seems to me then rather than requiring an experience, we should prioritize ability to deliver which might be in a newer entity.
For example, you know, at one time, Road to Home was just an idea and it needed support and some bootstrapping from the city and from Lehi to get there. onetime homes now was a crazy idea by a couple of people and now they've been our our tiny home operator for a while.
So, um would you be would staff be open to um adjust the RFP process to prioritize ability to own and operate affordable housing as opposed to say experience per se? Uh yes, if that's the direction that the council I mean it's part of experience.
I wouldn't say there's one single thing, but we do want to make sure that somebody has a sound program, experience operating this type of housing and or whatever program they're proposing that they have some experience for operation.
And this is in a neighborhood. So >> we did do some handholding for other >> but I've been involved directly the one involved with building road to home's capacity uh in that case um the Lehi was the lead um for a number of years before road to home was able to take over but we can take that into consideration >> member Ham.
Yeah. Um, thanks for the the update. So, good mentioned that four respondents thus far to the RFP. Um, are these organizations that conduct work within the transitional housing sphere or similar um environment in terms of the work that they do or do we have it's it's sort of pursuant to council member Viloquist's questions in terms of ability to maintain and carry on an operation.
So some of some agencies have moved away from having scattered site model like the opportunity council. So rather than having a number of small properties throughout the community, they've opted to go to larger um and they're about ready to open a large development at Bellis Fair.
The the folks that have responded and it's not to the RFP. We just asked for letters of interest. Uh very informal process. um just to make sure we knew that there was indeed some local operators willing to or interested in it.
And it's a bit of a variety. Um one agency oper operates shelter and transitional housing. Another and none of which are affordable home ownership programs. That doesn't mean a KCLT. They received the letter.
They'll receive the RFP. um another entity experienced with um uh developmentally disabled group homes. Um they've been around in our community for decades. So a bit a bit of a variety Anderson. I just wanted to second um Council Member Lilloquist's thought that um we could have individuals in the community who are very experienced um working in nonprofits who might be interested in taking up this type of challenge.
You mentioned um people working with um folks with you know varying abilities. There may be a nonprofit who hasn't necessarily worked in necessarily providing housing and that might be an area of interest, but the price tag has always been an obstacle form.
So I'd like to keep it the thought open a little bit so that our net is a little wider and then we can take into consideration whether or not they have the resources and um skill and expertise coming together in order to be able to facilitate a successful um program um versus tried and true and our smaller group of people that this is part of their primary mission.
Um, so I I do confer with um Council Member Liilloquist that I would like to see it um stay a little broad that um but still defined that um we're not having people look at this RFP and think that perhaps this isn't something that they would have a horse in the race for if they could put together a good proposal.
>> Williams. >> Yes. Um, I have a question. On the RFP process, we post it and it goes out to anybody that wants to apply. Correct. >> Yes. >> And then um once those applications come in, are they then evaluated at some point?
And I I would I would assume thoroughly evaluated as to to this is to answer the the question of experience versus non-experience. Would would they have to just demonstrate that they have the capacity to manage something like this whether they've had experience or not?
Is that or basically how how much weight does that carry in in the process? So they would demonstrate well they they'd tell us who their team is, describe their background, demonstrate their experience in the topic of which this is which is housing.
that experience we would be looking at it based on what program are they uh proposing to operate variety of levels of acuity. We know we need housing in every the entire continuum. You might need a little more experience in one one piece of the continuum than another and we would be taking that into to account.
But just like when we're hiring anybody else for doing work with the city, we are looking at the ability of that entity, whether it's a it's an engineer or a human service operator, their ability to deliver what they're saying that they're delivering.
So, um, now it's a it is we're we would be looking at I don't know who's going to apply. So, it's based on who who applies and >> thank you. So in I mean what I've heard from council members and I as I would [clears throat] agree as to some extent in that obviously we've seen shortages right when we think about operators and the need versus like you say we'll put out the RFP and who who responds or how many responses we receive is um we don't we don't know and so I think with this particular property if it's a small enough undertaking where it's like oh this might be an opportunity for an upand cominging right operator or entity to sort of put their toes in and you know explore that.
what I was hearing from Council Member Liilquist is like we're not wanting to discourage right the possibility of of new people coming to the table and you know helping to meet that need but at the same time I appreciate what you were highlighting um is that for even road to home right initially needing to partner with another organization like Lehi to sort of you know get that experience and and go forward um and so the hope is too that within the community there is that openness to collaborate operation and partnership where you know that could look look different again but depending on who who responds.
Um but I just wanted to confirm that there was no formal motion or request from from anyone on on council. Council member Lopez >> I might make a a formal motion but let me ask this. You say that RFP is already written and you've written it.
Maybe you did, maybe someone else did. Um, yeah, if the council were to agree that we should uh prioritize ability to deliver whatever program they're offering as opposed to experience per se, knowing that experience is part of proving ability, right?
Would you know where that change or that, you know, tweaking the language might need to be? And is it a difficult thing to go into that one section and just adjust the language to say that we're looking for to demonstrate or, you know, convince us of your ability to deliver the your proposal as opposed to again experience per se because you might have numerous ways of proving your ability that aren't all necessarily experienced doing that same thing previously.
If we if we asked you to staff to adjust it, would you be able to? >> If the majority of the council asks us to to do that, then yes, I would we would definitely be able to figure out how to reward a part of the proposal.
I will note that my preference would be um that we entertain people that do not have experience just like we did. Road to Home was a new organization. We knew that we talked to them and we said please partner with an agency that does know how to do this so that you can learn from them and gain experience.
That is what I would recommend is that uh an entity that doesn't have experience or the people on that team they depends on what their experience is um but that sort of a connection with another uh entity.
Now, if if the acuity of the program was not not severe, if it was low-income housing, two units, two families that didn't need case management or didn't, you know, then that that staff would look at the experience level of the agency.
So, >> I don't want to go too far with this, but we have talked over and over again about growing capacity and our providers. And this is just a moment where I don't want us to miss an opportunity to find new capacity if it's there.
I'm going I'm not going to make a motion. I I think you'll understand. I think the staff will evaluate all the proposals fairly. >> Williams, >> are you >> okay? So, we do have a motion before us. Um the motion is um to approve the subject parcels as surplus and designate the property for special disposition through a negotiated sale using a request for proposals process.
There any further discussion? Okay, seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Okay, seeing none, that passes 70. Thank you very much. Okay. So, the next item on the agenda is appointments.
And I know that um Mayor Lind has a few appointments this evening, all of which require approval. So, >> good evening to council, to members of the community and staff that are gathered here tonight. um do have several slates of appointments to various advisory bodies and they all require council's approval tonight.
So the first is I'm seeking to appoint Kristen her to a first term and reappoint Kristen McDade to a first full term and reappoint John Peell to a first full term on the water resources advisory board.
Move >> approval. Second. Motion's been made by Council Member Anderson and a second by Council Member Husman. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions?
Okay. Seeing none, that passes 70. >> Thank you. The next is a slate of appointments to the Watcom Racial Equity Commission. I am seeking to appoint and I'm co-appointing alongside executive sadu and these appointments have already passed at the county council just for your information but those appointments are Benny Spencer, Shariah Lane, Nisha Rando and Sarah Okconor all to their first terms on the rack.
>> Move approval. >> Second. >> Motion was made by council member Williams and a second by council member Cotton. Any discussion or questions? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions?
Okay. Seeing none, that passes 70. >> Thank you. And last but not least are some appointments to the Bellingham Arts Commission. I'm seeking to reappoint Patricia McDonald to a first full term and reappoint Philillip Freight to a first term on the arts commission.
>> Move approval. Second. Motion was made by council member Liiloquist and a second by council member Husman. Any discussion or questions? Okay. All in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions?
Seeing none, that passes 70. >> Thank you very much. >> So, next on the agenda, we have the mayor's report. >> Nope. >> Okay. [laughter] just the appointment >> tonight. >> Okay, sounds good. So, um, moving forward then from that on the agenda, the next item is council assignment reports.
Just a reminding that reminder that this is a standing time for council member reports from assigned committees, boards, and other groups that they may participate in outside of our committee work. Any updates, Council Member Anderson?
>> Thank you. Um, I'll report on one of the meetings that I had last week, which was the Lake Wacom Joint Council and Commissioners meeting. It was held um, excuse me, I mean the Lake Wacom Policy Group meeting which was held February 4th.
Uh, it was interesting. Um, what I uh, appreciated most out of the discussion was the presentation on the aquatic invasive species program. Um, a while back, uh, multiple community members and some council really kind of pushed to get a gate at Blloell Donovan and our current mayor agreed and we eventually got a gate for after season and happy to report that or unhappy.
Um, in 2025, the AIS program intercepted its first vessel fully encrusted with invasive muscles. Um, and this was during the offseason and somehow this vessel was in infested waters and somehow bypass all the highway checkpoints on its route.
Thankfully, um, the muscles were basically dried out and dead on arrival. So, um, that was the good news, but thankfully our staff was able to work hard and diligently to clean off the vessel because, um, even dead shells can trigger false positive edna sampling which can offset when we're checking for infestation.
Um and just to share some of the numbers of the 2025 um 15,572 inspections were performed. 7,127 permits were issued. Um of that 2,930 were local, 741 were Washington state, 55 were out of state, and 3,282 were non-motorized.
Um they also covered um the expectation coming forward in 2026 with a little bit more um coverage at some of the um county boat ramps um that go into Lake Wacom. So there will be a little bit more monitoring there um other than weekends which personally I feel is much needed.
Um, we also covered the agenda for the Lake Wacom Joint Council and Commissioners meeting which will be held Wednesday, April 1st, um, at 6:30 um, here in the chamber. So, if you're interested in learning more um, about Lake Wacom, we'll be having a presentation um, from the um, lake monitoring snapshot and we'll also be looking ahead at the 2026 priorities and challenges.
Another thing just to update there are three land parcels within the watershed which are slated um for uh recommendation. So we have a fivep person panel that takes a look at what I feel is an antiquated um landscape policy which was written 26 years ago.
But nevertheless, um after the individuals looked at these parcels, they are recommending to DNR the potential for cutting um of these areas which will actually increase um road development in the watershed.
So um look for more to come there. Um, I'm sure we'll be probably having that as part of our discussion or at least I know I hope to bring it up at the the joint meeting, but um, it was a for me it was my first meeting as one of the reps there.
So, I felt it was a good meeting to start getting my feet wet and learning. Well, I think I know not enough but some um, been keeping tabs on the Lake Wacom and what's been happening, but it was nice to have a seat at the table.
So, end of report. >> Thank you very much. Any other council member Hamilton? >> Uh, yeah. Thank you, Council President. Um, I've got several here. I'll be brief here just in interest of time. So, I'm going to be reporting out tonight on Serbal of the committees that I serve on including Wattcom, that's our 911 call center, the incarceration prevention and reduction task force, and Bellingham Library.
Uh, first of all, I want to uh thank John, Adam, and Craig from the alternate response team for letting me ride along with them. This was a couple weeks ago. Um, the alternative response team is a relatively new and increasingly important part of how our community responds to people experiencing mental health and substance use crisis.
Uh, I hear repeatedly from those who work daily in first response that this effective program could benefit the community by having more hours available during evenings and weekends. I want to thank all those who are working behind the scenes to make this happen and I hope that we'll be able to achieve that soon.
Last week, um, a civics class from Options High School came actually right here into these chambers for a class on local government. Uh, it's probably one of the highlights of serving, uh, is to be able to talk about civics, uh, with high school students.
One of the questions, uh, was about the fire and police general fund budgets. So, they did their homework and why they're higher than other departments. We talked about the 24-hour nature of these departments, minimum staffing, and public safety.
Uh, and I saw what that looked like [clears throat] firsthand on a ride along two weeks ago with Bellingham Police Department's Officer Cha Moo. Wow. Sorry, I know I was going to butcher that. On a night shift patrol, um, which is completely different.
The the city changes quite a bit uh, from when people go home from work and then night happens. And I think that we can all agree that public safety is a concern for all hours of the day. What I saw during that ride along was a lot of really highly professional um coordination between fire and police during that evening.
I also wanted to thank uh Bellingham Fire Department Chief Huitt for providing a high level overview during a ride along. Also, a couple weeks ago, we discussed the nature of public safety um on the fire side of the equation and how as a city we'll need to address concerns like response times as our population continues to increase.
And quick shout out to Watcom, our 911 call center, and Justin Rasmusen, Watcom's uh deputy chief, for allowing me to sit alongside uh dispatch. Um when calls were coming in, it was a reminder of the complexity of their work and the importance of providing a state-of-the-art modern facility for our community's call center and council um made a vote on that morning.
We'll be talking about that a little bit more tonight. Uh lastly, I want to thank Rebecca Jud, our library library director for the tour of our four libraries last Friday. Our libraries are wellused and loved by residents.
The downtown library will soon be undergoing a remodel with upgrades in the children's and community areas. And that's what I have to report to the public and to council tonight. Thanks. >> Thank you very much, Council Member Hamill.
Any other reports from [clears throat] council members? Okay, I have one for our lobby team. So, this is regarding um the lobby meetings that we have weekly right now during the session. We're almost halfway through, hard to believe, the 60-day session.
We have 31 days left. So, today is the fiscal committee cutoff for bills in their House of origin. February 17th, which is coming up quickly, is the cutoff for bills to be voted out of their house of origin.
Um, so since our last update, the city has engaged in a variety of lobbying activities. So, just going to mention a few of those highlights. I know we were talking about the different ways in which, you know, that lobby group takes action.
So, funding requests. Um, we submitted paperwork requesting $1.5 million for a day shelter. City staff also submitted two transportation funding requests. One submitted to Senator Lovelet for the Potter Street Roundabout and pedestrian improvements on Lincoln Street.
Um, we submitted a second transportation funding request to Senator Shoemaker for railroad crossing improvements on Pine Street to respect to some of the letters that have been submitted. So, the city signed on to a joint letter with prosecutor Richie and Executive Sadu calling for the preservation of lead funding um, which is currently at risk.
The city also signed on to an AWC, Association of Washington Cities, um AWC letter urging the preservation of funding for the public works assistance account. The governor has proposed sweeping $75 million out of this account and the state already swept $288 million from this account last year.
So that letter again is advocating um to try and retain those funds. Bill engagement. So, with respect to bills that are currently pending, wanting to um express appreciation for Director Lion um and continuing to to show up for testimony.
Um Director Lion provided testimony on multiple bills over the last few weeks. Um he testified on House Bill 2480. This is a bill concerning residential development in commercial and mixed use zones. He expressed our concerns and the bill was successfully amended.
Um so the amendment looking at trying to retain the ability to have commercial on the first floor. So some of this legislation was looking to require um residential throughout from top to bottom these developments.
So obviously within our urban core there are some places within the city where really want to retain the ability to have commercial on the first floor. Um Director Lion also testified on Senate Bill 5633 regarding subdivisions.
Senate Bill 5609. This was regarding cultural resource protection. [snorts] Um Senate Bill 6274 concerning street street standards and frontage improvement requirements and Senate Bill um which encourages step housing.
Director Lion's testimony on each of these bills sought to express our concerns and suggest improvements rather than opposing or you know opposition to the bill. So, I think that's one of the really key pieces to highlight.
This legislative session, it feels like the city has been much more nimble to be able to respond, you know, not just for or against particular pieces of legislation that are pending, but really to dive into the details and utilize our um contact points, whether that's through our lobbyists or the connections that we have with our own, you know, delegation in the 40th and 42nd um to really fine-tune legislation.
So if there are little areas where you know some wording changes or particular pieces um are amended that can really have some some great impact um [snorts] and advantage to to our community has been really fruitful.
So great appreciation. I know that that takes a lot of time especially when you're signing up to testify and you don't know when that may be and how much your time may be cut or or reduced. So um it is a commitment but it seems to have been beneficial to us this um this term so far.
So, as a reminder, you can view our legislative agenda on the city's um state government relations page through the co.org website. So, if people want additional information, otherwise just a a brief highle update.
Um, anything else from council members? Okay, seeing none, we will move to committee reports. So, this afternoon we started with public works and natural resources at 1:00 and that was chaired by council member Liiloquist.
Thank you, President Stone. The public works committee had three items before us. The first of those was a contract award for the Watcom Emergency Communications Center. This is project EF-183, bit number 59B-2025.
The city is con constructing a new WATCOM 911 communications center to replace the existing aging building. The city publicly opened eight bids on January 13th of this year, and Corushio Brothers, Inc.
was the responsible bidder who submitted the lowest responsive bid at $12,763,000 390 and80 including applicable sales or use tax. The engineers's estimate was a little bit higher than that 13.4 13.4 million more or less.
The project includes an apprenticeship hour requirement because it's large enough. Um we did uh this is a approximately $13 million project but we benefited from grant funding from Wash State Department of Commerce for just under a million at $970,000.
Um, if approved, the construction should begin soon, March. And the project is rather complex. It'll have to be built next to the existing 911 dispatch center and some other reasons which will make it a little bit more complicated project.
It will take just over a year. Hopefully, it will be operational in summer of 20 of 2027. Um the current facility will remain in full operation until the new center has is approved and operational and can take over at which time the old one will be uh decommissioned and that's the project this afternoon.
The uh committee unanimously voted to approve awarding this contract and I so move. >> Motion was made by council member Liilquist and a second by council member Hamill. Any discussion? Council member Hamill.
I just want to underscore the importance of what this means uh both for the the folks that work in this facility. Um this building was built in I think 1954 was a fire station at first and it was uh repurposed into the 911 call center.
It's very small. It's very uh compact and tight. This new building would open up and provide for just a better work environment. And when we consider who's on the other end of that phone call, who's calling in, um I think it's very important for public safety to um to provide for this facility.
And so I'm going to be supporting uh that this evening. Thank you. >> Any other comments from council? >> Not we'll call the question. All in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Seeing none, that passes 70.
Back to you. The next two items are related to each other. The first is an ordinance adopting a 4-year commute trip reduction plan for 2025 through 2029 and implementing measures as required under state law RCW7A.15.400.
Under that state law, the city of Bellingham is required to regularly review and update its commute trip reduction or CTR plan to remain consistent with the state's growth management act and establish new 4-year performance targets.
The CTR program establishes requirements for affected employers to encourage alternative commute modes and reduce single occupancy vehicle commute trips. So we have before us is an ordinance. Uh that ordinance uh replaces the previous one adopted several years ago to bring into compliance with state law.
And furthermore, that ordinance then adopts the plan. The plan is a multi-page document um that has been developed in accordance with guidelines provided by the state. Uh that plan addresses uh highle goals such as improving our multimodal transportation network.
uh support for compact and infill development within the existing areas of the city, sustainable land practices and also equity in transportation so that transportation options are available for all members of community uh regardless of their particular position of advantage.
Um the commute trip reduction programs actually are uh mandated requirements for large employers of 100 employees or more or rather 100 or more employees who arrive during the morning hours. Um and that is 15 employers including the city of Bellingham.
Uh the city then is now required to have its own commute trip reduction program. But as you'll hear in the next item, the way the city and all the other affected employers meet their commute trip reduction is actually by adopting the Watcom Council of Government or W COG's Smart Trips program.
You probably heard of Smart Trips. That's basically the way that we meet our our CTR obligation and all the other employers meet their CTR obligations. So this ordinance creates the uh CTR program but just let you know in actual practice the way we meet that CTR program is through smart trips although any employer is will is can always establish their own CTR program uh as well or instead and this afternoon the committee recommended adopting the ordinance which also adopts the plan and I so move >> second >> motion made by council member Liiloquist and a second by council member Williams.
Any discussion? Council member Anderson. Thank you. Um just wanting to verify, do we need to read into record the two motions that um changed some of the content of the plan? Um we had a vote on that.
Um do we need to do that before we do a final vote? >> I would do that. I recommend doing that. >> So >> I'll move on the first one. Um under uh performance target um previously listed was weighted average drive alone rate D of 64% or less.
Um I move that we change that 64% to 57%. >> Second. >> Motion by council member Anderson and a second by council member Liquist. >> Any discussion? All in favor say I. >> I. I. >> Any opposed or abstensions?
Seeing none, that passes 70. That's more Anderson. >> Another motion. The other item that we changed on the same page under the list of jurisdictions, CTR affected work sites, um SPIE is no longer um to be listed.
So, I move that we strike it. Oh, I'm sorry. Sorry, not that I underlined. Um Silfab Solar, Inc. Um, I move to strike it. >> Motion by council member Anderson, second by council member Williams. Any discussion?
Okay, seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Okay, that passes 70. Council member Cotton, did you have anything else? No. >> Back to you, Council Member Lopez. >> I think we have the main motion before us then.
>> Okay. No other changes or Okay. Um, so returning to the motion that was made by Council Member Liiloquist and seconded by Council Member Williams. This is um to move forward with passage of the ordinance adopting a 4-year commute trip reduction plan for 2025 2029 and implementing the measures as required by RCW7A.15.4,000.
>> All in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Okay, seeing none, that passes 70. And the last item uh for our committee meeting was an interlocal agreement between the city of Bellingham and the Watcom Council of Governments for administration of the commute trip reduction program and the WATCOM smart trips program.
As was discussed earlier, the city has a commute trip reduction plan for 2025 through 29, which we just adopted by ordinance, and it identifies the need for interlocal agreement with the Watcom Council of Governments, designating it as the lead agency responsible for implementing and administering the city's CTR plan and program.
Additionally, the city contracts with the WCOG for the administration of the Watcom Smart Trips program to meet the city's own CTR obligations and provide a pathway for compliance for any other affected employer in the city.
This interlogal agreement addresses both programs in one agreement and extends the contract term through December 31st of 2029, which aligns with the period for the CTR uh plan which we just adopted. Um this financial impact of this interlog agreement is rather small to administer this program is $25,000 from the city to the cog this afternoon.
The committee recommended to authorize the mayor to sign the interlog agreement and I so move. >> Second. >> Motion by council. Motion by council member Liiloquist and a second by council member Williams.
Any discussion? >> Seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Seeing none, that passes 70. >> And a committee report. >> Thank you very much, Council Member Liquist. The next committee this afternoon was community and economic development, and that committee is chaired by council member Cotton.
>> Thank you, Council President. Um I'm joined on that committee by council members Huffman and Williams, although all council members were present. Our first agenda item was um a discussion regarding the surplus declaration uh process for 1504 and 1506 I Street which we took action on earlier um this evening.
Um our other item was consideration of lodging tax advisory committee grant recommendations for drum roll the Bellingham fan zone and downtown activations and beautifification program. Um this is funded through lodging tax um dollars which is a search charge on hotel stays and the council is limited to either approve or reject the recommendations.
Um count the committee unanimously recommended approval. Um some exciting stuff you'll hear be hearing more about soon and um I move second. >> Motion by council member Cotton and a second by council member Williams.
Any discussion? Okay, seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Seeing none, that passes 70. >> And that was the end of the committee. >> Thank you very much. So the last committee this afternoon was committee of the whole.
All council members were present. We had one item before us. This is agenda bill 24827. Confirmation of mayor's appointment of Bridget Brick as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission.
So, Mayor Kim Lond has appointed Bridget Brick as special counsel to the Bellingham Civil Service Commission, subject to confirmation by the Bellingham City Council under BMC 3.16.040. Miss Brick is an attorney with the Carmichael Clark Law Firm of Bellingham.
She specializes in municipal law and has advised other municipal clients on labor and employment matters. Miss Brick will advise the civil service commission on all matters before it, including regular business and appeals.
The city attorney's office recommends Miss Brick for this role and we heard from city attorney Alan Mariner this afternoon um sharing that the civil service commission so frequently needs legal advice on matters before it including regular business and appeals.
In 2023 BMC 3.16.040 040 was amended to require that the commission be represented by special outside council to alleviate the potential conflicts of interest when attorneys in the city attorney's office had to both advise the commission and represent the city in appeals before the commission.
So since that time we had um again a private attorney who was serving as outside counsel in that capacity. The private attorney previously serving as special counsel for the commission since 2023 has now relocated overseas.
So, a new special counsel um needs to be appointed and Miss Brick was with us this afternoon in chambers. Um and there was a unanimous motion from the committee at that time and I so move. >> Second. >> Motion by the chair and a second by council member Anderson.
Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any opposed or abstensions? Okay. Seeing none, that passes 70. That was the only item before the committee of the whole this afternoon. So then we'll move to old and new business.
Any items for old and new? I was just going to share that city vision came out. embarrassed to open it, but um so there was an article that was completed for the city of Bellingham about flexible funding.
So it focused on our um ability to use our REA funding, so that's real estate excise revenue in some creative ways. So the um City Vision magazine was highlighting the use of those funds for here locally, at least at the library.
So, the Bellingham Library as well as at Garden View Village with the tiny homes. So, just wanting in the past I've always looked through the the publications for usually there are public works items or other things highlighted, but it's embarrassing to highlight right now because there are pictures of myself in there, but >> I was going to say uh [laughter] council president failed to show the big picture of >> the big picture.
I know I was avoiding that. I was skimming through it and was like, "Okay, I'm going to look at it and then I was like, "Oh, there's a very large picture." But the city was highlighted. So wanting to make sure that that was noted.
Um and again just yeah excitement with the library renovation coming forward and again all the little pieces of funding that have to come together to make projects like that possible. Um having that flexibility with REIT really was an advantage in this case.
So grateful for that. Any other items for old and new? Okay. If not we did have executive session this afternoon. There was one item before us. Um, so in executive session, there was a potential litigation claim.
This was claim number 2025-36 with Phillips. Um, staff provided information on a potential litigation matter. This was for information and discussion only at this time and no action was taken. Next, we have consent agenda.
>> Approval. >> Second. Motion by council member Hamill and a second by council member Lilloquist. Any discussion? Seeing none, all in favor will say I. >> I. >> Any abstensions or um opposition? No. Passes 70.
Okay. Final consideration of ordinances. Agenda Bill 24813, an ordinance relating to the Municipal Court and amending Bellingham Municipal Code section 2.16.030 to provide for the creation of a second full-time municipal judge position, an appointment process for newly created or vacated municipal judge positions and an election for the second municipal judge position for a full judicial term beginning on January 1st, 2030.
>> File. Second >> motion by council member Hamill and a second by council member Husman. Any discussion? Seeing none, roll call, please. Holly Huffman. >> Hi. >> Dan Hamill. >> Hi. >> Skip Williams. >> I.
>> Lisa Anderson. >> Hi. >> Michael Liiloquist. >> Hi. >> Jace Cotton. >> Hi. >> Hannah Stone. >> I. >> The motion passes 70. And next up we have agenda bill 24808, an ordinance granting NFC Northwest LLC, a franchise to operate and maintain fiber optic broadband network components and city rights of way for the provision of commercial telecommunication services to businesses and residents.
>> Second. >> Motion was made by council member Hamill and a second by council member Williams. Any discussion? Okay, >> seeing none, roll call, please. >> Holly Hman, >> hi. >> Dan Hamill. Hi. >> Skip Williams.
>> Hi. >> Lisa Anderson. Hi. >> Michael Lilloquiz. >> Hi. >> Jay Cotton. Hi. >> Hannah Stone. >> I. >> The motion passes 70. >> Great. >> Thank you very much. Um, so that concludes the regular business of the meeting this evening and we will now move to the public comment period.
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