Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.
During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.
Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.
Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.
Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.
During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.
Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.
Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.