HomeMy WebLinkAboutres2026-024Whatcom County
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360)778-5010
Agenda Bill Master Report
File Number: AB2026-476
File ID:
AB2026-476
Version: 1
Status: Approved
File Created:
06/09/2026
Entered by: CHalka@co.whatcom.wa.us
Department:
Council Office
File Type: Resolution
Assigned to:
Council
Final Action: 06/09/2026
Agenda Date:
06/09/2026
Enactment #: RES 2026-024
Related Files:
Primary Contact Email: chalka�co.whatcom.wa.us
TITLE FOR AGENDA ITEM:
Resolution honoring the life, service, and legacy of Kevin Hester
SUMMARY STATEMENT OR LEGAL NOTICE LANGUAGE:
See attached
HISTORY OF LEGISLATIVE FILE
Date: Acting Body: Action: Sent To:
06/09/2026 Council APPROVED
Aye: 7 Boyle, Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Attachments: Proposed Resolution
Whatcom County Page 1 Printed on 611012026
PROPOSED BY: ELENBAAS
INTRODUCED: JUNE 9, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-024
HONORING THE LIFE, SERVICE, AND LEGACY OF KEVIN HESTER
WHEREAS, Kevin Hester dedicated his life to public service and the betterment
of Whatcom County and its communities; and
WHEREAS, Hester served the people of Whatcom County for more than thirty
years as a member of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office, earning a reputation for
professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public safety; and
WHEREAS, through decades of distinguished service, Hester rose through the
ranks to serve as Chief Civil Deputy, providing leadership and mentorship to countless
law enforcement professionals and public servants; and
WHEREAS, Hester played a key leadership role in the Whatcom Gang and Drug
Task Force, helping to build and maintain one of Washington's most respected multi -
jurisdictional law enforcement partnerships; and
WHEREAS, throughout his career, Hester demonstrated steady judgment,
humility, and a servant's heart, earning the trust and respect of colleagues, elected
officials, and community members across Whatcom County; and
WHEREAS, upon his retirement from the Sheriff's Office in 2021, Hester
continued his commitment to public service by serving as Mayor of the City of
Nooksack, where he worked to strengthen his community and improve the quality of
life for its residents; and
WHEREAS, Hester's leadership reflected the values of duty, accountability, and
service above self, and his contributions left a lasting impact on public safety, local
government, and the communities he served; and
WHEREAS, Hester will be remembered not only for the offices he held, but also
for his character, kindness, mentorship, and dedication to helping others; and
WHEREAS, Kevin Hester's passing is a profound loss to his family, friends,
former colleagues, the City of Nooksack, the law enforcement community, and the
people of Whatcom County; and
WHEREAS, the Whatcom County Council wishes to honor Hester's life of service
and express gratitude for the legacy he leaves behind.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Whatcom County Council hereby
honors the life, service, and legacy of Kevin Hester and recognizes his extraordinary
contributions to the people of Whatcom County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council extends its deepest sympathies and
condolences to the Hester family and all who mourn his passing; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOVVED that Kevin Hester's dedication to public service,
commitment to community, and example of leadership shall be remembered with
gratitude and respect by the residents of Whatcom County for generations to come;
and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED by the Whatcom County Council that a copy of this
resolution be presented to Kevin Hester's family as a lasting expression of Whatcom
County's appreciation and remembrance.
APPROVED this 9th day of June , 2026
ATTEST,:)w�
C�JUi'd tT „
Ca—� al4ca
. I rT� �le�Gobncil`_
y:
N
APPROV�D,AS TO F'PRM.:
Kimberly Thulin by email (6/10/2026-ks)
Civil Deputy Prosecutor
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON