Your Community. Your Voice.
Two Ways to Make a Difference.
Some people create impact by holding public office. Others do so by building businesses that contribute to our community.
This week, you have the opportunity to recognize both ways to make a difference.
First, vote.
Election Day is almost here, and if you haven’t yet returned your ballot, I encourage you to take a few minutes to do so. Local elections matter. The decisions made by our elected leaders influence housing, public safety, transportation, permitting, workforce development, taxes, and countless other issues that shape the environment in which our businesses and community operate.
The Chamber does not endorse candidates in these races; our role is to advocate for a healthy business climate.
That said, I believe it is helpful to share which candidates took the initiative to reach out to the Chamber during this election cycle. These candidates sought us out to better understand the priorities, opportunities, and challenges facing our local business community before asking for your vote.
The following candidates met with Chamber leadership:
- Port of Bellingham Commission Candidate – Paul Burrill
- Port of Bellingham Commission Candidate – Tor Benson
- Port of Bellingham Commission Candidate – Chris Elder
- Whatcom County Prosecutor Candidate – Erik Sigmar
- Washington State Senate Candidate – Erika Creydt (also a Chamber member)
- Washington State Senate Candidate – Michael Shepard*
- Washington State Representative Incumbent – Joe Timmons*
- Washington State Representative Incumbent – Alicia Rule*
Their willingness to engage is not an endorsement, nor should it be interpreted as one. There are many ways candidates connect with our community, and we certainly don’t see every conversation that takes place. We simply wanted our members to know which candidates chose to seek out the Chamber as part of learning about the business community they hope to serve.
*I think it’s important to note that we have extensive communication with these three due to their current elected offices.
If you are interested in learning more about the Port candidates, our partner, the Working Waterfront Coalition, put together some candidate videos. Check them out.
Second, recognize great leadership in business.
Every year, our Annual Awards celebrate the businesses, nonprofits, and individuals whose leadership, innovation, and commitment make Whatcom County a stronger place to live, work, and do business. Nominations are now open, and we need your help identifying this year’s deserving recipients.
Think about the business that consistently exceeds expectations. The employer investing in its people. The nonprofit creating lasting impact. The entrepreneur willing to take a chance. The community leader who quietly makes our region better.
Someone you know deserves to be recognized and they can only be considered if someone takes a few minutes to submit a nomination.
Later this fall, Chamber members will once again help select the winners in several categories from among this year’s finalists. It is another opportunity for your voice to help celebrate excellence in our business community.
Every ballot cast helps shape our future. Every nomination celebrates those already making it better. Both are investments in the kind of community we want to build together.
Healthy communities don’t happen by chance. They are built by people who choose to engage, participate, and recognize the value of leadership in all its forms.
Thank you for being one of those people.
Guy