Public participation and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders is central to our success— from the Shipping Terminal to the Airport, the waterfront and Blaine Harbor, we can strengthen our economy and bring the living-wage careers our community deserves.
It’s time.
Time to reset expectations
Time to improve communications
Time to coalesce around a shared vision
Time to expect more
Time to act
Time to change the way the Port does business:
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By increasing communication
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Demanding internal accountability
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Removing the barriers to transparency
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Improving internal processes
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Having a cohesive vision
I am running to finish the change the Commission initiated in our last term.
We made big strides during my last term to change the leadership to replace the Executive Director and change the Commission’s structure so we can improve how our Port communicates, both internally and externally. This will improve accountability, transparency, and the way we do business. I pushed for the 5-member commission for greater public input and broader representation because everyone in Whatcom County should have a say in the Port’s decision making.​
One of the big concerns I hear from young professionals is the need for living-wage careers. My focus is to prioritize these careers through our shipping terminal and working waterfront, developing a top-tier airport industrial park (a free-trade zone), protecting and investing in Whatcom County’s valuable agricultural resources, and developing our waterfront into a world-class property that attracts year-round tourism to support our small businesses.
Legal Purpose of the Port (RCW 53.04.010)
The Revised Code of Washington establishes ports to:
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“Improve trade, commerce, and economic development” within the district.
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Develop transportation, terminal, and other facilities to support commerce.
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Promote industrial development and job creation.
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Manage waterfront and maritime resources for public benefit.