Bellingham council elects Hannah Stone council president, confirms committee and board assignments

On Jan. 5 the Bellingham City Council completed its annual reorganization, electing Hannah Stone as council president, naming Holly Huffman council president pro tem and Skip Williams mayor pro tem, and approving a slate of committee chairs and external-board appointments. The council approved the leadership and committee assignments by unanimous voice vote, 7-0.

The full slate announced by the chair included committee chair assignments: Lisa Anderson to chair Budget and Finance; Jace Cotton to chair Community and Economic Development; Skip Williams to chair Parks and Recreation; Holly Huffman to chair Planning; Dan Hamill to chair Public Health, Safety, Justice and Equity; and Michael Lilliquis to chair Public Works and Natural Resources. The council also approved member assignments to a range of city and regional boards, including the Community Development Advisory Board, EMS Oversight Board, Fire Pension Board, Mount Baker Theatre board, Whatcom Transportation Authority, and others.

Mayor Lund, in the mayor's report preceding the vote, said the reorganization underscores council members’ commitment to the city. The chair moved approval of the leadership slate and committee assignments; the motion was seconded and carried without opposition.

Council members noted several reorganization-related items that were tabled for further discussion at an upcoming retreat, including possible new work groups on communications and adjustments to public-comment logistics. The council said those items will return for discussion during the first quarter of 2026.

The reorganization establishes committee leadership and external representation for the year ahead and determines which council members will lead oversight of city priorities in budget, planning, public works, public health and other portfolios.