City of Bellingham
Not in City of Bellingham? Find your guide.
Ballot Drop Boxes
Return Ballots By November 4
Welcome to the Fuse Progressive Voters Guide to the 2025 General election, preview edition! Since 2008, we've compiled information about candidates and ballot measures that allows you to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. You can learn about our partners and decision-making process here. Please share this guide with your friends and family, and remind them to vote by November 4!
We will continue adding more recommendations for candidates and ballot measures until voting begins on October 15.
Statewide Ballot Measures
SJR 8201 will grow Washington’s long-term care fund for aging people and people with disabilities, keeping premiums low, without costing taxpayers a single penny. Also known as the “Allow Investment of Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Fund Amendment," SJR 8201 is a constitutional amendment adding accountability protections to our long-term care fund, requiring that 100% of investment income be used for long-term care.
If passed, SJR 8201 would increase the state’s long-term care fund for vulnerable Washingtonians by at least $67 billion over the next 50 years by allowing the nonpartisan Washington State Investment Board to diversify investments. In the state legislature, 128 legislators voted in favor of the measure, and only 16 were opposed. Additionally, it has the support of groups such as the Washington State Nurses Association, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, Planned Parenthood, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vote APPROVED on SJR 8201 to protect and grow our state’s independent long-term care fund for aging adults and people with disabilities.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
SJR 8201 will grow Washington’s long-term care fund for aging people and people with disabilities, keeping premiums low, without costing taxpayers a single penny. Also known as the “Allow Investment of Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Fund Amendment," SJR 8201 is a constitutional amendment adding accountability protections to our long-term care fund, requiring that 100% of investment income be used for long-term care.
If passed, SJR 8201 would increase the state’s long-term care fund for vulnerable Washingtonians by at least $67 billion over the next 50 years by allowing the nonpartisan Washington State Investment Board to diversify investments. In the state legislature, 128 legislators voted in favor of the measure, and only 16 were opposed. Additionally, it has the support of groups such as the Washington State Nurses Association, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, Planned Parenthood, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vote APPROVED on SJR 8201 to protect and grow our state’s independent long-term care fund for aging adults and people with disabilities.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Whatcom County
Barry Buchanan is running for a fourth term on the Whatcom County Council. Buchanan is a Navy veteran and lifelong community leader who has been a consistent voice for progress on the county council since joining in 2014. Before that, he spent a term on the Bellingham City Council. Buchanan has previously worked in engineering and as a small business entrepreneur in workforce technical training.
On the council, Buchanan has pursued bold action such as preventing the expansion of local fossil fuel infrastructure, finding alternatives to a costly new jail, banning local fracking, and establishing the Healthy Children’s Fund. In this race, he is prioritizing addressing the affordability crisis while ensuring that local government works efficiently and responsively toward local solutions. Some of his goals for another term include developing alternative crisis response options to law enforcement, advocating for social equity and environmental protections, and expanding affordable housing options in the county.
Buchanan’s leadership is guided by his belief in the “right to thrive” for all Whatcom County residents. We recommend Barry Buchanan for another term in the At-Large seat on the Whatcom County Council.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Barry Buchanan is running for a fourth term on the Whatcom County Council. Buchanan is a Navy veteran and lifelong community leader who has been a consistent voice for progress on the county council since joining in 2014. Before that, he spent a term on the Bellingham City Council. Buchanan has previously worked in engineering and as a small business entrepreneur in workforce technical training.
On the council, Buchanan has pursued bold action such as preventing the expansion of local fossil fuel infrastructure, finding alternatives to a costly new jail, banning local fracking, and establishing the Healthy Children’s Fund. In this race, he is prioritizing addressing the affordability crisis while ensuring that local government works efficiently and responsively toward local solutions. Some of his goals for another term include developing alternative crisis response options to law enforcement, advocating for social equity and environmental protections, and expanding affordable housing options in the county.
Buchanan’s leadership is guided by his belief in the “right to thrive” for all Whatcom County residents. We recommend Barry Buchanan for another term in the At-Large seat on the Whatcom County Council.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, SEIU Local 925, Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Barry Buchanan is running for a fourth term on the Whatcom County Council. Buchanan is a Navy veteran and lifelong community leader who has been a consistent voice for progress on the county council since joining in 2014. Before that, he spent a term on the Bellingham City Council. Buchanan has previously worked in engineering and as a small business entrepreneur in workforce technical training.
On the council, Buchanan has pursued bold action such as preventing the expansion of local fossil fuel infrastructure, finding alternatives to a costly new jail, banning local fracking, and establishing the Healthy Children’s Fund. In this race, he is prioritizing addressing the affordability crisis while ensuring that local government works efficiently and responsively toward local solutions. Some of his goals for another term include developing alternative crisis response options to law enforcement, advocating for social equity and environmental protections, and expanding affordable housing options in the county.
Buchanan’s leadership is guided by his belief in the “right to thrive” for all Whatcom County residents. We recommend Barry Buchanan for another term in the At-Large seat on the Whatcom County Council.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
,
SEIU Local 925
,
Sierra Club
,
Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho
,
Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Port of Bellingham
Michael Shepard is running unopposed for re-election to the Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 1 seat, a position he has held since 2018. Shepard is a cultural and environmental scholar who has taught at Goucher College, Western Washington University, and Mohave Community College. Locally, he serves as a trustee of the Kulshan Community Land Trust and has worked with the Whatcom County Homeless Strategies Workgroup and the Small Cities Partnership.
On the port commission, Shepard has been a voice for balancing environmental and community needs in economic decision-making. He has yet to release a specific campaign platform in this race as of late-September, but in the past, he has supported ideas like investing in renewable energy, expanding broadband access, and revitalizing the waterfront.
We recommend Shepard for re-election to the Port of Bellingham to continue his progressive leadership for the region.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Michael Shepard is running unopposed for re-election to the Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 1 seat, a position he has held since 2018. Shepard is a cultural and environmental scholar who has taught at Goucher College, Western Washington University, and Mohave Community College. Locally, he serves as a trustee of the Kulshan Community Land Trust and has worked with the Whatcom County Homeless Strategies Workgroup and the Small Cities Partnership.
On the port commission, Shepard has been a voice for balancing environmental and community needs in economic decision-making. He has yet to release a specific campaign platform in this race as of late-September, but in the past, he has supported ideas like investing in renewable energy, expanding broadband access, and revitalizing the waterfront.
We recommend Shepard for re-election to the Port of Bellingham to continue his progressive leadership for the region.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
Michael Shepard is running unopposed for re-election to the Port of Bellingham Commissioner District 1 seat, a position he has held since 2018. Shepard is a cultural and environmental scholar who has taught at Goucher College, Western Washington University, and Mohave Community College. Locally, he serves as a trustee of the Kulshan Community Land Trust and has worked with the Whatcom County Homeless Strategies Workgroup and the Small Cities Partnership.
On the port commission, Shepard has been a voice for balancing environmental and community needs in economic decision-making. He has yet to release a specific campaign platform in this race as of late-September, but in the past, he has supported ideas like investing in renewable energy, expanding broadband access, and revitalizing the waterfront.
We recommend Shepard for re-election to the Port of Bellingham to continue his progressive leadership for the region.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
Carly James is challenging incumbent Ken Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. James is the co-owner of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress and owns Gold Ink, an accounting and consulting firm.
While James' platform is limited, her campaign is prioritizing entrepreneurship, protecting the shoreline and marine trades, and expanding public access to parks, trails, and community spaces. As a small business owner, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the port and wants to do more to drive economic growth in the area.
Although we would like to see her campaign include more specific policy proposals, we lean towards voting for Carly James for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Carly James is challenging incumbent Ken Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. James is the co-owner of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress and owns Gold Ink, an accounting and consulting firm.
While James' platform is limited, her campaign is prioritizing entrepreneurship, protecting the shoreline and marine trades, and expanding public access to parks, trails, and community spaces. As a small business owner, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the port and wants to do more to drive economic growth in the area.
Although we would like to see her campaign include more specific policy proposals, we lean towards voting for Carly James for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Carly James is challenging incumbent Ken Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. James is the co-owner of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress and owns Gold Ink, an accounting and consulting firm.
While James' platform is limited, her campaign is prioritizing entrepreneurship, protecting the shoreline and marine trades, and expanding public access to parks, trails, and community spaces. As a small business owner, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the port and wants to do more to drive economic growth in the area.
Although we would like to see her campaign include more specific policy proposals, we lean towards voting for Carly James for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Other Candidates
Incumbent Commissioner Ken Bell is running for another term in District 2 on the Bellingham Port Commission. Formerly a Whatcom County planning commissioner and Whatcom County charter review commissioner, Bell joined the port commission in 2017. He also served as the president of a soil decontamination company outside of office.
Bell is a more conservative voice on the commission and works with the Whatcom Republicans. He has previously been politically affiliated with consultants from a fossil fuel shipping terminal that community members, progressive leaders, and the Lummi Tribe successfully opposed. Bell’s track record on the port commission includes uncompassionate sweeps of homeless encampments on port property as well as supporting private interests and marine trade at the cost of community needs. He is not a progressive choice.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Incumbent Commissioner Ken Bell is running for another term in District 2 on the Bellingham Port Commission. Formerly a Whatcom County planning commissioner and Whatcom County charter review commissioner, Bell joined the port commission in 2017. He also served as the president of a soil decontamination company outside of office.
Bell is a more conservative voice on the commission and works with the Whatcom Republicans. He has previously been politically affiliated with consultants from a fossil fuel shipping terminal that community members, progressive leaders, and the Lummi Tribe successfully opposed. Bell’s track record on the port commission includes uncompassionate sweeps of homeless encampments on port property as well as supporting private interests and marine trade at the cost of community needs. He is not a progressive choice.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
City Races
Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.
Bellingham City Council
Jace Cotton is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council, At-Large position. He was first elected in 2023 to fill out the remainder of Kristina Michele Martens’ term when she ran for mayor. Cotton has a long track record of progressive leadership, having managed campaigns for Whatcom Democrats, Yes for Whatcom Kids, and Community First Whatcom. Through this work, he helped pass the Healthy Children’s Fund, a voter-approved initiative that secured historic funding to ensure that all Whatcom children have access to healthy, resourced starts and bright futures.
In his first year on the council, Cotton has been a voice for local progress in improving life in Bellingham for all residents. He supported a parking policy that would improve walkability and reduce congestion. Cotton wants to address the rising cost of living and supports raises to local wages, affordable housing prices, and renters’ protections. His re-election campaign priorities remain the same, focusing on affordable housing, tenant protections, and increasing the minimum wage to keep up with the cost of living.
We recommend re-electing Jace Cotton to serve another term on the Bellingham City Council, At-Large.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Jace Cotton is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council, At-Large position. He was first elected in 2023 to fill out the remainder of Kristina Michele Martens’ term when she ran for mayor. Cotton has a long track record of progressive leadership, having managed campaigns for Whatcom Democrats, Yes for Whatcom Kids, and Community First Whatcom. Through this work, he helped pass the Healthy Children’s Fund, a voter-approved initiative that secured historic funding to ensure that all Whatcom children have access to healthy, resourced starts and bright futures.
In his first year on the council, Cotton has been a voice for local progress in improving life in Bellingham for all residents. He supported a parking policy that would improve walkability and reduce congestion. Cotton wants to address the rising cost of living and supports raises to local wages, affordable housing prices, and renters’ protections. His re-election campaign priorities remain the same, focusing on affordable housing, tenant protections, and increasing the minimum wage to keep up with the cost of living.
We recommend re-electing Jace Cotton to serve another term on the Bellingham City Council, At-Large.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes, UFCW 3000, Riveters Collective
Jace Cotton is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council, At-Large position. He was first elected in 2023 to fill out the remainder of Kristina Michele Martens’ term when she ran for mayor. Cotton has a long track record of progressive leadership, having managed campaigns for Whatcom Democrats, Yes for Whatcom Kids, and Community First Whatcom. Through this work, he helped pass the Healthy Children’s Fund, a voter-approved initiative that secured historic funding to ensure that all Whatcom children have access to healthy, resourced starts and bright futures.
In his first year on the council, Cotton has been a voice for local progress in improving life in Bellingham for all residents. He supported a parking policy that would improve walkability and reduce congestion. Cotton wants to address the rising cost of living and supports raises to local wages, affordable housing prices, and renters’ protections. His re-election campaign priorities remain the same, focusing on affordable housing, tenant protections, and increasing the minimum wage to keep up with the cost of living.
We recommend re-electing Jace Cotton to serve another term on the Bellingham City Council, At-Large.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes
,
UFCW 3000
,
Riveters Collective
City of Bellingham, 2nd Ward
Two progressive candidates are running for Bellingham City Council from Ward #2: incumbent Hollie Huthman and Leah Wainman. While both candidates prioritize housing and advocate for affordability in their campaigns, Huthman's impressive track record on the council implementing policies to address Bellingham's housing shortage sets her apart. We lean toward Hollie Huthman for re-election in Ward #2.
Council President and small business owner Hollie Huthman is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council in the Ward 2, where she has served since 2019. She owns a local bar and live music venue in downtown Bellingham.
Huthman originally ran for office after watching rising rents and housing prices push her friends out of the city. She continues to bring a lens of affordability to the council, and she is passionate about ensuring that Bellingham residents can afford the basics, such as rent, groceries, gas, and prescription medicine. She also seeks to reduce incarceration rates, invest in alternatives to criminal justice and policing, support sustainable strategies to alleviate the housing crisis, and expand the city’s small business community. Huthman strongly advocates for public transportation infrastructure by supporting the expansion of pedestrian walkways, bike paths, and bus routes, enabling residents to access schools, work, and other essential needs without the need for a car. She supports progressive reforms to make Bellingham a healthier and more affordable place to live.
During her time on the council, she has been part of efforts to increase the housing supply for residents at every stage of life. In our interview, Huthman acknowledged the continued shortage of affordable housing options facing Bellingham. While there is still much work to be done, Huthman detailed the current council's progress and goals, including simplifying zoning codes and reducing parking minimums. These measures are critical steps for building more housing and improving affordability. Additionally, Huthman voted to implement alternative policing methods that helped improve public safety services and relieve the burden on police and fire departments, allowing them to focus their time on emergency response.
Hollie Huthman has shown herself to be a thoughtful and progressive leader on the council. We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman for Bellingham City Council from Ward 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Council President and small business owner Hollie Huthman is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council in the Ward 2, where she has served since 2019. She owns a local bar and live music venue in downtown Bellingham.
Huthman originally ran for office after watching rising rents and housing prices push her friends out of the city. She continues to bring a lens of affordability to the council, and she is passionate about ensuring that Bellingham residents can afford the basics, such as rent, groceries, gas, and prescription medicine. She also seeks to reduce incarceration rates, invest in alternatives to criminal justice and policing, support sustainable strategies to alleviate the housing crisis, and expand the city’s small business community. Huthman strongly advocates for public transportation infrastructure by supporting the expansion of pedestrian walkways, bike paths, and bus routes, enabling residents to access schools, work, and other essential needs without the need for a car. She supports progressive reforms to make Bellingham a healthier and more affordable place to live.
During her time on the council, she has been part of efforts to increase the housing supply for residents at every stage of life. In our interview, Huthman acknowledged the continued shortage of affordable housing options facing Bellingham. While there is still much work to be done, Huthman detailed the current council's progress and goals, including simplifying zoning codes and reducing parking minimums. These measures are critical steps for building more housing and improving affordability. Additionally, Huthman voted to implement alternative policing methods that helped improve public safety services and relieve the burden on police and fire departments, allowing them to focus their time on emergency response.
Hollie Huthman has shown herself to be a thoughtful and progressive leader on the council. We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman for Bellingham City Council from Ward 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes, Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Bellingham/Whatcom County Firefighters (IAFF Local 106), Northwest Washington Central Labor Council
Council President and small business owner Hollie Huthman is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council in the Ward 2, where she has served since 2019. She owns a local bar and live music venue in downtown Bellingham.
Huthman originally ran for office after watching rising rents and housing prices push her friends out of the city. She continues to bring a lens of affordability to the council, and she is passionate about ensuring that Bellingham residents can afford the basics, such as rent, groceries, gas, and prescription medicine. She also seeks to reduce incarceration rates, invest in alternatives to criminal justice and policing, support sustainable strategies to alleviate the housing crisis, and expand the city’s small business community. Huthman strongly advocates for public transportation infrastructure by supporting the expansion of pedestrian walkways, bike paths, and bus routes, enabling residents to access schools, work, and other essential needs without the need for a car. She supports progressive reforms to make Bellingham a healthier and more affordable place to live.
During her time on the council, she has been part of efforts to increase the housing supply for residents at every stage of life. In our interview, Huthman acknowledged the continued shortage of affordable housing options facing Bellingham. While there is still much work to be done, Huthman detailed the current council's progress and goals, including simplifying zoning codes and reducing parking minimums. These measures are critical steps for building more housing and improving affordability. Additionally, Huthman voted to implement alternative policing methods that helped improve public safety services and relieve the burden on police and fire departments, allowing them to focus their time on emergency response.
Hollie Huthman has shown herself to be a thoughtful and progressive leader on the council. We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman for Bellingham City Council from Ward 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes
,
Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho
,
Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Bellingham/Whatcom County Firefighters (IAFF Local 106), Northwest Washington Central Labor Council
Epidemiologist and public health professional Leah Wainman is challenging incumbent Huthman for the Bellingham City Council from Ward 2. Wainman currently works for the Washington State Department of Health as an Equity and Health Assessment Manager. Her public health work is informed by an equity and social justice lens. She serves on the advisory boards of Whatcom County Public Health and the Whatcom County Dispute Resolution Center. She also consults with the Chuckanut Foundation’s New Data Equity & Analytics Lab.
Wainman's professional focuses on public health, environmental justice, social equity, and public service clearly inform her campaign priorities. After moving out of the downtown neighborhood, she started to experience some of the inequities in accessibility to resources throughout the city. In our interview, she noted that the placement of the tiny home village in her neighborhood left residents without access to a grocery store and other necessities, further deepening inequities in the community. She hopes to utilize her professional background as an epidemiologist to advocate for health and safety measures, including improved transportation options, tenant protections, and sustainable solutions that minimize the impact of climate change.
In our interview, Wainman expressed disappointment with the current council's steps, or lack thereof, towards improving the affordable housing supply in Bellingham. Although there has been a push to develop low-income housing options, there remains a lack of middle-income housing that serves as a stepping stone for young adults and families. In response, she proposed greater support for land trusts and cooperatively owned housing in Bellingham, as well as greater mortgage assistance for middle-income households. While we appreciated her perspective and passion for the issue, the policies she supports would not adequately address the scale of Bellingham's severe housing shortage that has developed over decades.
Wainman's care for and thorough understanding of the issues facing Bellingham residents was evident. She displayed a willingness to learn and offered an intersectional lens throughout her campaign. Both Wainman and Huthman acknowledged that the council should be doing more to reduce the cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. However, Huthman offered a clearer vision for building enough new homes to improve affordability and meet the city's needs.
We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman due to her demonstrated track record advocating for progressive solutions for housing and alternative policing.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Epidemiologist and public health professional Leah Wainman is challenging incumbent Huthman for the Bellingham City Council from Ward 2. Wainman currently works for the Washington State Department of Health as an Equity and Health Assessment Manager. Her public health work is informed by an equity and social justice lens. She serves on the advisory boards of Whatcom County Public Health and the Whatcom County Dispute Resolution Center. She also consults with the Chuckanut Foundation’s New Data Equity & Analytics Lab.
Wainman's professional focuses on public health, environmental justice, social equity, and public service clearly inform her campaign priorities. After moving out of the downtown neighborhood, she started to experience some of the inequities in accessibility to resources throughout the city. In our interview, she noted that the placement of the tiny home village in her neighborhood left residents without access to a grocery store and other necessities, further deepening inequities in the community. She hopes to utilize her professional background as an epidemiologist to advocate for health and safety measures, including improved transportation options, tenant protections, and sustainable solutions that minimize the impact of climate change.
In our interview, Wainman expressed disappointment with the current council's steps, or lack thereof, towards improving the affordable housing supply in Bellingham. Although there has been a push to develop low-income housing options, there remains a lack of middle-income housing that serves as a stepping stone for young adults and families. In response, she proposed greater support for land trusts and cooperatively owned housing in Bellingham, as well as greater mortgage assistance for middle-income households. While we appreciated her perspective and passion for the issue, the policies she supports would not adequately address the scale of Bellingham's severe housing shortage that has developed over decades.
Wainman's care for and thorough understanding of the issues facing Bellingham residents was evident. She displayed a willingness to learn and offered an intersectional lens throughout her campaign. Both Wainman and Huthman acknowledged that the council should be doing more to reduce the cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. However, Huthman offered a clearer vision for building enough new homes to improve affordability and meet the city's needs.
We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman due to her demonstrated track record advocating for progressive solutions for housing and alternative policing.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders, Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho, Housing Action Fund, Emerge Washington, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Riveters Collective
Epidemiologist and public health professional Leah Wainman is challenging incumbent Huthman for the Bellingham City Council from Ward 2. Wainman currently works for the Washington State Department of Health as an Equity and Health Assessment Manager. Her public health work is informed by an equity and social justice lens. She serves on the advisory boards of Whatcom County Public Health and the Whatcom County Dispute Resolution Center. She also consults with the Chuckanut Foundation’s New Data Equity & Analytics Lab.
Wainman's professional focuses on public health, environmental justice, social equity, and public service clearly inform her campaign priorities. After moving out of the downtown neighborhood, she started to experience some of the inequities in accessibility to resources throughout the city. In our interview, she noted that the placement of the tiny home village in her neighborhood left residents without access to a grocery store and other necessities, further deepening inequities in the community. She hopes to utilize her professional background as an epidemiologist to advocate for health and safety measures, including improved transportation options, tenant protections, and sustainable solutions that minimize the impact of climate change.
In our interview, Wainman expressed disappointment with the current council's steps, or lack thereof, towards improving the affordable housing supply in Bellingham. Although there has been a push to develop low-income housing options, there remains a lack of middle-income housing that serves as a stepping stone for young adults and families. In response, she proposed greater support for land trusts and cooperatively owned housing in Bellingham, as well as greater mortgage assistance for middle-income households. While we appreciated her perspective and passion for the issue, the policies she supports would not adequately address the scale of Bellingham's severe housing shortage that has developed over decades.
Wainman's care for and thorough understanding of the issues facing Bellingham residents was evident. She displayed a willingness to learn and offered an intersectional lens throughout her campaign. Both Wainman and Huthman acknowledged that the council should be doing more to reduce the cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. However, Huthman offered a clearer vision for building enough new homes to improve affordability and meet the city's needs.
We lean towards re-electing Hollie Huthman due to her demonstrated track record advocating for progressive solutions for housing and alternative policing.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders
,
Sierra Club
,
Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho
,
Housing Action Fund
,
Emerge Washington, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Riveters Collective
City of Bellingham, 4th Ward
Two progressive candidates are running for Bellingham City Council from Ward #4: incumbent Skip Williams and Kerri Burnside. Williams has been part of the council majority that has prioritized streamlining regulations and incentivizing development to address Bellingham's dire housing shortage. Burnside has been a fierce advocate for tenants' rights, including her tireless work in support of rent stabilization in Olympia.
The two candidates agree on many issues, but would lead with different styles in office. We lean toward Williams to continue pushing forward the council's important work to make it easier and less expensive to build homes throughout the city of Bellingham.
The two candidates agree on many issues, but would lead with different styles in office. We lean toward Williams to continue pushing forward the council's important work to make it easier and less expensive to build homes throughout the city of Bellingham.
Retired teacher and incumbent Edwin “Skip” Williams III is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council from Ward 4. Williams has served since 2022, when he became the first Black man to serve on the city council. His professional and community leadership background includes serving on the boards of the Pipeline Safety Trust and Northwest Youth Services.
Williams has been a thoughtful voice on the council, often seeking a deeper understanding of the issues facing Bellingham and its solutions. He has been part of the council's efforts to address the affordable housing shortage, including approving zoning changes that allow for more middle housing throughout the city. Williams also voted to approve certain tenant protections, such as preventing landlords from charging excessive security deposits and "junk fees." In our interview, he highlighted his ability to listen to the community and explore different options as one of his strengths during his time on the council.
Additionally, Williams has supported the city's efforts to reshape the police department, including funding more community health officers. His perspective is built on decades of community activism, and he believes that community-oriented policing must not serve as a band-aid solution but address the systemic factors impacting residents.
We lean toward re-electing Skip Williams to continue the council's important work to make it easier and less expensive to build homes throughout the city of Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Retired teacher and incumbent Edwin “Skip” Williams III is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council from Ward 4. Williams has served since 2022, when he became the first Black man to serve on the city council. His professional and community leadership background includes serving on the boards of the Pipeline Safety Trust and Northwest Youth Services.
Williams has been a thoughtful voice on the council, often seeking a deeper understanding of the issues facing Bellingham and its solutions. He has been part of the council's efforts to address the affordable housing shortage, including approving zoning changes that allow for more middle housing throughout the city. Williams also voted to approve certain tenant protections, such as preventing landlords from charging excessive security deposits and "junk fees." In our interview, he highlighted his ability to listen to the community and explore different options as one of his strengths during his time on the council.
Additionally, Williams has supported the city's efforts to reshape the police department, including funding more community health officers. His perspective is built on decades of community activism, and he believes that community-oriented policing must not serve as a band-aid solution but address the systemic factors impacting residents.
We lean toward re-electing Skip Williams to continue the council's important work to make it easier and less expensive to build homes throughout the city of Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes, Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho, Riveters Collective
Retired teacher and incumbent Edwin “Skip” Williams III is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council from Ward 4. Williams has served since 2022, when he became the first Black man to serve on the city council. His professional and community leadership background includes serving on the boards of the Pipeline Safety Trust and Northwest Youth Services.
Williams has been a thoughtful voice on the council, often seeking a deeper understanding of the issues facing Bellingham and its solutions. He has been part of the council's efforts to address the affordable housing shortage, including approving zoning changes that allow for more middle housing throughout the city. Williams also voted to approve certain tenant protections, such as preventing landlords from charging excessive security deposits and "junk fees." In our interview, he highlighted his ability to listen to the community and explore different options as one of his strengths during his time on the council.
Additionally, Williams has supported the city's efforts to reshape the police department, including funding more community health officers. His perspective is built on decades of community activism, and he believes that community-oriented policing must not serve as a band-aid solution but address the systemic factors impacting residents.
We lean toward re-electing Skip Williams to continue the council's important work to make it easier and less expensive to build homes throughout the city of Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-02
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes
,
Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho
,
Riveters Collective
Kerri Burnside is challenging incumbent Skip Williams to represent Ward 4. Burnside is the president of the Silver Beach Neighborhood Association, a member of the Whatcom County Housing Advisory Committee, and an organizer with Bellingham Tenants Union. As a renter who has seen her own housing costs more than double over the last decade, Burnside is intently focused on the issue of housing affordability in Bellingham.
In our interview, Burnside presented plans specifically geared to protect renters and tenants in Bellingham. She is a fierce advocate for tenant protections, including the removal of junk fees, relocation assistance, and rent control. After previously owning a home and becoming a renter herself, she is closely attuned to the challenges facing tenants. This year, she was very active volunteering in support of the successful rent stabilization legislation in Olympia.
Burnside expressed frustration with the current council's lack of progress on affordable housing. In particular, she criticized what she perceives as a lack of enforcement regarding the junk fee ordinance. Overall, she demonstrated a detailed understanding of state and local tenant laws and housing policies. Beyond housing, Burnside emphasized the need to create safer streets and improve emergency response times in underserved areas.
While we appreciate her inclusive advocacy for improving rental conditions and the cost of living, we are concerned that her proposals are too narrowly focused to address Bellingham's severe housing shortage. She is supportive of cooperative and community housing, but we were hoping to hear more about her plans to build significantly more homes throughout the city.
Kerri Burnside is a progressive candidate who is actively involved in improving housing conditions in Bellingham. As a renter, she would offer an important perspective that is currently underrepresented on the council. However, we lean towards re-electing Skip Williams to continue pushing forward the council's important work to increase the housing supply and reduce the cost of living in Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Kerri Burnside is challenging incumbent Skip Williams to represent Ward 4. Burnside is the president of the Silver Beach Neighborhood Association, a member of the Whatcom County Housing Advisory Committee, and an organizer with Bellingham Tenants Union. As a renter who has seen her own housing costs more than double over the last decade, Burnside is intently focused on the issue of housing affordability in Bellingham.
In our interview, Burnside presented plans specifically geared to protect renters and tenants in Bellingham. She is a fierce advocate for tenant protections, including the removal of junk fees, relocation assistance, and rent control. After previously owning a home and becoming a renter herself, she is closely attuned to the challenges facing tenants. This year, she was very active volunteering in support of the successful rent stabilization legislation in Olympia.
Burnside expressed frustration with the current council's lack of progress on affordable housing. In particular, she criticized what she perceives as a lack of enforcement regarding the junk fee ordinance. Overall, she demonstrated a detailed understanding of state and local tenant laws and housing policies. Beyond housing, Burnside emphasized the need to create safer streets and improve emergency response times in underserved areas.
While we appreciate her inclusive advocacy for improving rental conditions and the cost of living, we are concerned that her proposals are too narrowly focused to address Bellingham's severe housing shortage. She is supportive of cooperative and community housing, but we were hoping to hear more about her plans to build significantly more homes throughout the city.
Kerri Burnside is a progressive candidate who is actively involved in improving housing conditions in Bellingham. As a renter, she would offer an important perspective that is currently underrepresented on the council. However, we lean towards re-electing Skip Williams to continue pushing forward the council's important work to increase the housing supply and reduce the cost of living in Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: UFCW 3000, Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho, Housing Action Fund, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Kerri Burnside is challenging incumbent Skip Williams to represent Ward 4. Burnside is the president of the Silver Beach Neighborhood Association, a member of the Whatcom County Housing Advisory Committee, and an organizer with Bellingham Tenants Union. As a renter who has seen her own housing costs more than double over the last decade, Burnside is intently focused on the issue of housing affordability in Bellingham.
In our interview, Burnside presented plans specifically geared to protect renters and tenants in Bellingham. She is a fierce advocate for tenant protections, including the removal of junk fees, relocation assistance, and rent control. After previously owning a home and becoming a renter herself, she is closely attuned to the challenges facing tenants. This year, she was very active volunteering in support of the successful rent stabilization legislation in Olympia.
Burnside expressed frustration with the current council's lack of progress on affordable housing. In particular, she criticized what she perceives as a lack of enforcement regarding the junk fee ordinance. Overall, she demonstrated a detailed understanding of state and local tenant laws and housing policies. Beyond housing, Burnside emphasized the need to create safer streets and improve emergency response times in underserved areas.
While we appreciate her inclusive advocacy for improving rental conditions and the cost of living, we are concerned that her proposals are too narrowly focused to address Bellingham's severe housing shortage. She is supportive of cooperative and community housing, but we were hoping to hear more about her plans to build significantly more homes throughout the city.
Kerri Burnside is a progressive candidate who is actively involved in improving housing conditions in Bellingham. As a renter, she would offer an important perspective that is currently underrepresented on the council. However, we lean towards re-electing Skip Williams to continue pushing forward the council's important work to increase the housing supply and reduce the cost of living in Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: UFCW 3000
,
Sierra Club
,
Planned Parenthood Advocates Of Greater Washington and North Idaho
,
Housing Action Fund
,
Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Bellingham School Board
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below school district races on your ballot.
Board president Jenn Mason is running for another term on the Bellingham School Board in Director Position 4. Mason has served on the board of directors since 2017 and is both a district parent and a former educator, having previously worked as a counselor. She is also a certified sex educator and local business owner.
Mason is a progressive leader on the school board who has offered commonsense, holistic solutions for students, families, and district staff. She received conservative backlash after one of the local schools read a nationally renowned children’s book about a trans child. Mason is unafraid to defend inclusive curricula, welcoming school communities, and support for marginalized students to reduce systemic educational gaps.
Her re-election campaign continues to prioritize the success and safety of all students, particularly children of marginalized backgrounds. Her priorities include combating misinformation through digital literacy programs, securing funding for supportive services, and expanding post-graduation options.
Jenn Mason continues to offer impressive leadership for students in the Bellingham School District. We highly recommend re-electing Mason for another term on the Bellingham School Board.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Board president Jenn Mason is running for another term on the Bellingham School Board in Director Position 4. Mason has served on the board of directors since 2017 and is both a district parent and a former educator, having previously worked as a counselor. She is also a certified sex educator and local business owner.
Mason is a progressive leader on the school board who has offered commonsense, holistic solutions for students, families, and district staff. She received conservative backlash after one of the local schools read a nationally renowned children’s book about a trans child. Mason is unafraid to defend inclusive curricula, welcoming school communities, and support for marginalized students to reduce systemic educational gaps.
Her re-election campaign continues to prioritize the success and safety of all students, particularly children of marginalized backgrounds. Her priorities include combating misinformation through digital literacy programs, securing funding for supportive services, and expanding post-graduation options.
Jenn Mason continues to offer impressive leadership for students in the Bellingham School District. We highly recommend re-electing Mason for another term on the Bellingham School Board.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Board president Jenn Mason is running for another term on the Bellingham School Board in Director Position 4. Mason has served on the board of directors since 2017 and is both a district parent and a former educator, having previously worked as a counselor. She is also a certified sex educator and local business owner.
Mason is a progressive leader on the school board who has offered commonsense, holistic solutions for students, families, and district staff. She received conservative backlash after one of the local schools read a nationally renowned children’s book about a trans child. Mason is unafraid to defend inclusive curricula, welcoming school communities, and support for marginalized students to reduce systemic educational gaps.
Her re-election campaign continues to prioritize the success and safety of all students, particularly children of marginalized backgrounds. Her priorities include combating misinformation through digital literacy programs, securing funding for supportive services, and expanding post-graduation options.
Jenn Mason continues to offer impressive leadership for students in the Bellingham School District. We highly recommend re-electing Mason for another term on the Bellingham School Board.
Last updated: 2025-10-01
Other Candidates
Corinne Thorsen is challenging incumbent Jenn Mason for Bellingham School Board, Director Position 4. Thorsen serves on the Whatcom County Republican Party's Executive Board for District 2. While her campaign website does not have a detailed platform available, her candidate statement echoes language used nationally by right-wing education advocates. Corinne Thorsen will likely not be a progressive voice for students in Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Corinne Thorsen is challenging incumbent Jenn Mason for Bellingham School Board, Director Position 4. Thorsen serves on the Whatcom County Republican Party's Executive Board for District 2. While her campaign website does not have a detailed platform available, her candidate statement echoes language used nationally by right-wing education advocates. Corinne Thorsen will likely not be a progressive voice for students in Bellingham.
Last updated: 2025-09-30