In July 2025, the Port Commission adopted Resolution No.1422 to form a ballot proposition in the next general election on November 4, 2025 asking Whatcom County voters to decide whether the number of Port of Bellingham Commissioners should be increased from three to five Commissioners in five separate newly created districts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Port of Bellingham Commissioners propose this expansion to the voters?
The Port Commission's discussion on the proposed expansion begins at 1:15:20 in the following link
What is the statutory authority for Port of Bellingham Commissioners to increase from three to five members?
Pursuant to RCW 53.12.115, a ballot proposition shall be submitted to the voters of any port district authorizing an increase in the number of port commissioners to five whenever the port commission adopts a resolution proposing the increase in number of port commissioners. The ballot proposition shall be submitted at the next general or special election occurring sixty or more days after the resolution was adopted. There are also provisions for a petition signed by voters that would bring a ballot proposition forward, but that did not occur in this situation.
How much would Commission expansion cost the taxpayers?
The estimated costs for expanding the Commission from three to five members include:
- Ongoing annual expenses of $125,914, plus increased equipment costs of about $7,000 every four to five years.
- A one-time cost of approximately $200,000 for the 2026 general election, plus an additional $60,000 per position (a total of $120,000) if a primary election is required.
When would new Port Commissioners be elected?
If Whatcom County voters decide to expand the Port Commission in November 2025, the Port must complete redistricting to five districts by January 1, 2026. A primary election on August 4, 2026, may be necessary in which the voters of the two new commissioner districts may vote to nominate a candidate for commissioner. Only a registered voter who resides in a commissioner district may be a candidate for or hold office as a commissioner of that district. A Whatcom County general/Port special election would occur on November 3, 2026, to elect the 2 additional Commissioners to be voted on by the voters of the entire Port District. The two new commissioners would take office immediately upon being qualified, which requires the Whatcom County Auditor’s certification of election results and an oath of office being taken. The new commissioner receiving the highest number of votes would have a three year term, and the other commissioner a one year term. Going forward, the two new commissioners would be elected in odd numbered years, in line with the cycle of the incumbent Commissioners.
If the voters decide to expand the Port Commission in November 2025, where can I find information about becoming candidate?
Candidates interested in running for public office, including Port Commissioner, can find Candidate Resources from the Election Division at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office.