Charter Review Commission members celebrate accomplishments and express gratitude in final meeting

The Whatcom County Charter Review Commission held its final meeting on July 10, 2025, marking the culmination of six months of collaborative work. The commission successfully agreed on 12 amendments to be presented to the public, a significant achievement given the challenges of reaching consensus among its members.

Commission Chair expressed gratitude for the dedication and professionalism of the commission members and staff, acknowledging the hard work that went into the process. "This work is not easy, and we did not always agree, but we came together," the Chair noted, highlighting the importance of bipartisan cooperation in today's political climate.

Members of the commission took turns thanking each other and the public for their participation throughout the process. Commissioner Coltenville emphasized the value of community engagement, stating, "Thank you to the members of the public who have showed up time and time again to give their opinions." This sentiment was echoed by other commissioners, who appreciated the active involvement of residents in shaping local governance.

The meeting also featured light-hearted moments, with commissioners sharing personal anecdotes and expressing appreciation for the camaraderie developed during their time together. Commissioner Morales humorously acknowledged the contributions of fellow members who provided refreshments during meetings, fostering a sense of community.

As the commission prepares to present the amendments to voters in November, there is a sense of pride in being one of only seven counties in Washington state to engage in this charter review process. The Chair concluded the meeting with hopes for future commissions to continue building on the foundation laid during this term.

With the meeting adjourned, the commission's work will now transition to the public, where residents will have the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed amendments that could shape the future of Whatcom County governance.