HomeMy WebLinkAboutSpecial Committee of the Whole May 19 2026Whatcom County
Council Special Committee of the Whole
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360)778-5010
Committee Minutes - Final
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
9AM
Hybrid Meeting - Council Chambers
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COUNCILMEMBERS
Elizabeth Boyle
Barry Buchanan
Ben Elenbaas
Kaylee Galloway
Jessica Rienstra
Jon Scanlon
Mark Stremler
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
Cathy Halka, AICP, CMC
Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final May 19, 2026
Call To Order
Roll Call
Council Chair Kaylee Galloway called the meeting to order at 9:03 a.m. in a
hybrid meeting.
Present: 7 - Elizabeth Boyle, Barry Buchanan, Ben Elenbaas, Kaylee Galloway, Jessica
Rienstra, Jon Scanlon, and Mark Stremler
Announcements
Public Comment (Comprehensive Plan)
1. AB2026-395 Public comments on all chapters of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan
The following people spoke:
• Peter Condyles
• Lisa Adams
• Charlie Brown
• Bill Geyer
• Dwayne Engelsman
• Darcy Jones
• Brian Gass
• Alex Wenger
Hearing no one else, Galloway closed public comment.
This agenda item was RECEIVED.
Committee Discussion
1. AB2026-273 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on the Preface to the Whatcom County
Comprehensive Plan
Galloway introduced discussion of the Comprehensive Plan Preface. She
stated that Council preliminarily approved the Land Acknowledgement in
the Preface, but still needed to approve the labor acknowledgement.
Elenbaas moved to approve the alternate Labor Acknowledgement (Item 5
in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026).
Stremler seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final May 19, 2026
Galloway explained that, if the motion is approved, it would replace the
originally proposed labor acknowledgement.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Rienstra
Scanlon moved to request staff prepare the Preface - Preliminary Council
Draft for 5.19.2026 as amended - for inclusion in a future agenda bill file
for Council introduction and public hearing.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to approve the alternate Labor Acknowledgement (Item 5 in the Chart of Proposed Council
Changes for 5.19.2026).
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to request staff prepare the Preface — Preliminary Council Draft as amended — for inclusion in a
future agenda bill file for Council introduction and public hearing.
2. AB2026-186 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 2, Land Use
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 Land
Use. She stated that Council had worked through all proposed amendments
at the last meeting, so the only things left are a couple of amendments from
Planning and Development Services (PDS) and some amendments to UGAs.
Rienstra moved to begin review of Chapter 2 using the Preliminary Council
Draft as dated 5.19.2026, which is the current version of the chapter with
Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional
edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final May 19, 2026
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway stated that the preliminary draft for 5.19.2026 includes proposed
amendments from PDS.
Matt Aamot, PDS, stated that they don't know when the annexation of East
Blaine will occur, so the amendments just note that on the Comprehensive
Plan map.
Galloway stated that Council may go into an executive session to discuss
potential litigation risk related to the Comprehensive Plan Update pursuant
to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) for litigation risk discussion, which will conclude
no later than 10:00 a.m. If the meeting extends beyond the stated
conclusion time, the Council chair will make a public announcement. The
attorney present will be Kimberly Thulin.
Scanlon moved to go into Executive Session until no later than 10:00 a.m.
to discuss the agenda item pursuant to the RCW citation(s) as announced by
the Council Chair.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Councilmembers entered Executive Session at 9:30 a.m.
At 10:00 a.m., Galloway announced that Executive Session would extend to
no later than 10:15 a.m.
At 10:15 a.m., Galloway announced that Executive Session would extend to
no later than 10:30 a.m.
At 10:31 a.m., Galloway announced that Executive Session was concluded.
Galloway introduced discussion of a memo from PDS regarding the Dakota
Creek UGA (on file), which presents three possible options for Council
consideration.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final Nlay 19, 2026
Scanlon moved to support option three as presented in the memo from PDS
on the Dakota Creek UGA for 5.19.2026.
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon asked about the Future Shorelines report, which shows that there is
potential for sea level rise along Dakota Creek.
Mark Personius, PDS, said that under current zoning the remaining sewer
shares would be allocated only to the parcel south of Shipyard Road, not to
any parcels to the north on the creek, so there wouldn't be any additional
urban development on those parcels on the creek.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to a map (on file) of Birch Bay UGAR
properties for consideration on 5.19.2026.
Galloway moved that the Council supports including the parcels as outlined
in red on the Birch Bay Properties map for inclusion in the UGAR study
that has been docketed.
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas stated that he has prepared some additional amendments for
Chapter 2 regarding Cherry Point and site -specific renewable energy. He
provided an overview of the proposed amendments to Section 2CC related
to regulatory certainty for existing facilities, logistical infrastructure, and
an orderly energy transition. He also explained additional proposed
amendments related to proposed renewable energy generation projects. He
stated that he has additional amendments he would like to propose for
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Chapter 5 as well.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendments.
Galloway moved to hold open Chapter 2 until the June 2 Special
Committee of the Whole meeting.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 2 using the Preliminary Council Draft dated 5.19.2026, which is the
current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional edits
proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to go into executive session until no later than 10:00 a.m. to discuss potential litigation risk related tc
the Comprehensive Plan Update pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) as announced by the Council Chair.
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to support option three as presented in the Memo from PDS on the Dakota Creek UGA for
5.19.2026, which reads as follows:
Retain a Portion of the Lots within the Area, with Development Potential, in the UGA.
a.WCPDS has attached an aerial of the UGA, with annotations showing where development potential exists, up to an
additional 11 dwelling units as the subject area already contains five single-family residences. The yellow area
represents the portion of the UGA with development potential.
MOTION 4:
Motion approved that Council supports including the parcels as outlined in red on the Birch Bay Properties map (on
screen) for inclusion in the UGAR study that has been docketed.
MOTION 5:
Motion approved to hold open Chapter 2 until the June 2 Special Committee of the Whole meeting.
3. AB2026-250 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 8, Resource Lands
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8
Resource Lands. She stated that her preference would be to not include the
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remaining amendments in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for
5.19.2026.
Galloway moved to begin review of Chapter 8 using the Preliminary
Council Draft dated 4.28.2026, which is the current version of the chapter
with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and
additional edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 4.28.2026.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway moved to strike the edits highlighted in yellow in the Preliminary
Council Draft for 4.28.2026 and listed in the Chart of Proposed Council
Changes as Items 91, 92, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98).
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas stated that he has additional proposed amendments for Chapter 8
regarding the siting of renewable energy facilities on resource lands.
Elenbaas moved to include the amendment to Chapter 8 Resource Lands as
presented on screen, allowing staff discretion on where the amendment is
placed. The proposed amendments reads as follows:
The County may consider limited siting of renewable energy
facilities or associated infrastructure on or near designated resource
lands when:
• The location is dependent upon the underlying resource,
• No feasible alternative location exists,
• Impacts to long-term commercial resource use are
minimized,
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• Environmental impacts are mitigated,
And the proposal is consistent with applicable state and
federal law.
Stremler seconded the motion.
Scanlon moved to hold the item (Elenbaas' proposed amendment to Chapter
8 Resource Lands) until the June 2 Special Committee of the Whole
meeting.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Rienstra, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 2 - Galloway and Elenbaas
Scanlon moved to hold Chapter 8 open until June 2.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Galloway
Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services (PDS), stated that they
are working with several of the small cities on amendments to Policy
8A-15, which they intend to bring to Councit on June 2.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 8 using the Preliminary Council Draft dated 4.28.2026, which is the
current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional edits
proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 4.28.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to strike the edits highlighted in yellow in the Preliminary Council Draft for 4.28.2026 and listed in
the Chart of Proposed Council Changes (Items 91, 92, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98).
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to hold Elenbaas' proposed amendment to Chapter 8 Resource Lands until the June 2 Special
Committee of the Whole meeting.
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MOTION 4:
Motion approved to hold Chapter 8 open until June 2.
4. AB2026-261 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 10, Environment
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 10
Environment.
Rienstra moved to begin review of Chapter 10 Environment using the
Preliminary Council Draft dated 5.19.2026, which is the current version of
the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the
Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to proposed new policy 1 ON-8 (Item 70 in the
Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026). She said that staff
pointed out that the county only has jurisdiction over derelict vessels
located on county -owned or managed aquatic lands, and staff recommended
specifying that in the policy.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Galloway moved to amend the proposed new policy to add "on
county -owned or managed aquatic lands" after "derelict vessels" so that the
policy reads as follows:
Address the issue of derelict vessels on County -owned or managed
aquatic lands and change the current language in code to hold owners
more accountable. Ensure that resources are available to fund
established policies designed to address this issue.
Elenbaas seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Galloway amended her motion to change the final sentence of the policy as
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follows:
Pursue state resources to fund established policies designed to
address this issue.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Stremler stated that there is a program that addresses derelict vessels, and
he asked how the policy would build upon that program.
Scanlon said that he wants to know more about what the amendment's
proposer, the Marine Resource Committee (MRC), wants to see fixed in
the code.
Galloway said that this amendment may be a policy directive for the MRC
to recommend a code update.
Councilmembers continued to discuss the motion.
Galloway amended her motion so that the policy reads as follows:
Address the issue of derelict vessels on County -owned or managed
aquatic lands by updating code to hold owners more accountable.
Pursue state resources to fund established policies designed to
address this issue.
Scanlon moved to hold Item 70 (in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes
for 5.19.2026) as amended until after lunch.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Elenbaas
Galloway turned discussion to Item 71, which proposes a new policy
1 ON-9. She noted that staff stated there is no funding for this policy.
Galloway moved to strike Item 71 (as presented in the Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 5.19.2026).
Elenbaas seconded the motion.
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The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Stremler turned discussion to Items 75 through 82, providing a brief
overview of proposed changes.
Councilmembers discussed Item 78.
Elenbaas moved to amend Item 78 (in the Chart of Proposed Council
Changes for 5.19.2026) so that it reads as follows:
Ensure the design and development of land avoids or minimizes
disturbance to rivers, streams, floodplains, and functioning riparian
areas as outlined in Chapter 11 Shorelines.
Galloway seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Stremler turned discussion to Item 79.
Councilmembers discussed the amendment.
Stremler turned discussion to Item 80.
Councilmembers discussed the amendment.
Galloway moved to amend Item 80 (in the Chart of Proposed Council
Changes for 5.19.2026) so that the policy reads as follows:
Shoreline armoring falls under the Shoreline Management Program
(SMP) and is allowed in very limited circumstances. New hard
armoring should be consistent with Chapter 11 and the SMP and
encourage soft shore techniques or other less impactful solutions or
new development and when armor is degraded and in need of
replacement.
Stremler seconded the motion.
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Scanlon asked whether the policy would prevent infrastructure investment
related to flood management.
Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services (PDS), stated that the
flood wall concept is a temporary use, so it wouldn't fall under the
designation of the SMP. He added that the Department of Ecology is
updating Washington Administrative Code (WAC) for the next round of
SMP updates, which will be due in 2028 or 2029.
Scanlon asked whether there is anything that they are doing that would
prevent a good technique for flood management.
Personius stated that there is a process built in with the SMP that would be
consistent with the policy.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Scanlon
Galloway turned discussion to Items 81 and 82 in the Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 5.19.2026, which strike Policy IOL-7 and IOL-8. She
stated that the staff note says that the policies are already covered in
Chapter 12.
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, stated that the policies are not included in
Chapter 12.
Elenbaas stated that the Chart of Proposed Council Changes is mistaken and
the policies are covered in Chapter 11 rather than Chapter 12.
Councilmembers returned to discussion of Item 80.
Scanlon moved to hold Chapter 10 open until June 2.
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Rienstra, Scanlon, and Elenbaas
Nay: 2 - Galloway and Stremler
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At 12:07 p.m., councilmembers recessed for lunch until 1:15 p.m.
At 1:16, councilmembers resumed following their lunch recess.
Galloway stated that Council still needs to address an amendment that
would add a new policy 1 ON-8 (Item 70 in the Chart of Proposed Council
Changes for 5.19.2026) to Chapter 10 regarding derelict vessels.
Scanlon moved to strike Policy ION-8.
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 10 Environment using the Preliminary Council Draft dated 5.19.2026,
which is the current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and
additional edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to hold Item 70 (in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026) as amended until after
lunch.
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to strike Item 71 (as presented in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026).
MOTION 4:
Motion approved to amend Item 78 (from the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026) so that it reads as
follows:
Ensure the design and development of land avoids or minimizes disturbance to rivers, streams, floodplains, and
functioning riparian areas as outlined in Chapter 1 I Shorelines.
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MOTION 5:
Motion approved to amend Item 80 (in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026) to read as follows:
Shoreline armoring falls under the Shoreline Management Program (SMP) and is allowed in very limited
circumstances. New hard armoring should be consistent with Chapter 11 and the SMP and encourage soft shore
techniques or other less impactful solutions or new development and when armor is degraded and in need of
replacement.
MOTION 6:
Motion approved to hold Chapter 10 open until June 2.
5. AB2026-390 Resolution regarding greenhouse gas reduction sub -element voluntary review as part
of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan periodic update under the Washington
State Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A.096)
Galloway introduced discussion of the draft resolution regarding
greenhouse gas reduction sub -element voluntary review.
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, provided an overview of the draft
resolution. She stated that there is a new state process for Chapter 12,
which allows the section regarding greenhouse gas emissions reduction to
be submitted for state review and approval. If Council moves forward with
the resolution, the greenhouse gas emissions reduction portion of Chapter
12 would only go into effect when the state reaches its decision, which
could take up to 180 days. If Council does not move forward with the
resolution, the whole chapter will go into effect with the rest of the
comprehensive plan. Some benefits of the resolution would be that, if there
is an appeal and Commerce has approved the greenhouse gas emissions
reduction section, they would defend that decision in front of the Growth
Management Hearings Board.
Boyle asked about the benefit of going forward with the resolution.
Clemens stated that the benefit is just having another set of eyes on the
document to confirm that the county is conforming with climate planning
guidance. The extra layer of review is beneficial because the climate
element is a new requirement and Whatcom County is one of the first
jurisdictions to go through the process.
Elenbaas asked for clarification regarding the need for the resolution.
Clemens stated that each jurisdiction's climate chapter looks very different,
so the purpose of the review is to ensure that the approving agency feels
Whatcom County has adequately followed climate planning guidance.
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6. AB2026-262
Elenbaas asked if the state takes benefits of local oil production into
consideration when providing greenhouse gas reduction targets and
guidance.
May 19, 2026
Clemens stated that Whatcom County is unique within the jurisdictions that
are currently submitting climate chapters. She said that there is some
nuance involved and the Growth Management Hearings Board will have to
clarify guidance about emissions tracking and goals. She stated that there is
an opportunity to address Whatcom County's unique situation in its
application submittal.
Councilmembers continued to discuss greenhouse gas emissions with
Clemens.
Galloway stated that the resolution will return for consideration on May 26.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 12, Climate
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 12
Climate.
Rienstra moved to begin review of Chapter 12 using the Preliminary
Council Draft dated 4.28.2026, which is the current version of the chapter
with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and
additional edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 4.28.2026.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, provided an overview of Item 33 in the
Chart of Proposed Council Changes, which adds two new paragraphs, and
Item 34, which makes a few changes to the Background Summary regarding
electric vehicles.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendments with Clemens.
Galloway clarified that the version of the chapter moved for review includes
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the amendments, so no further motions are needed to incorporate the
amendments.
Rienstra moved to request staff prepare Chapter 12 - Preliminary Council
Draft as amended for inclusion in a future agenda bill file for Council
introduction and public hearing.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 12 using the Preliminary Council Draft dated 4.28.2026, which is the
current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional edits
proposed by councilmembers as listed in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to request staff prepare Chapter 12 - Preliminary Council Draft as amended for inclusion in a future
agenda bill file for Council introduction and public hearing.
7. AB2026-263 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Appendices (Appendix A: Glossary, Appendix B: Acronyms, Appendix D:
Bibliography, Appendix E: 20-Year Capital Facilities Plan, Appendix G: Airport
Overlay Zones, Appendix H: Airport Imaginary Surfaces, Appendix I: Housing
Needs Analysis, Appendix J: Subsidized Housing Needs and Funding) and Foothills
Subarea Plan Amendments
Galloway introduced discussion of the Comprehensive Plan Appendices.
She provided an overview of proposed changes as outlined in the Chart of
Proposed Changes.
Scanlon moved to begin review of the Appendices, which is the current
version of the Appendices with Planning Commission recommendations
from January 2026 and additional edits proposed by councilmembers as
listed in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
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Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas turned discussion to Item 2 in the Chart of Proposed Changes
regarding the definition of "enhancement." He asked about the use of the
word "degraded" in the definition.
Galloway stated that the definition for "enhancement" comes from
Whatcom County Code 23.60.050(F).
Councilmembers discussed "enhancement."
Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services (PDS), stated that the
definition of "enhancement" comes from code, but the term as it appears in
the Comprehensive Plan Glossary could remove the word "degraded"
without impacting the policy intent.
Galloway moved to amend the definition of "enhancement" in Item 2 in the
Chart of Proposed Changes to strike the word "degraded."
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion failed by the following vote:
Aye: 1 - Stremler
Nay: 6 - Rienstra, Scanlon, Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, and Elenbaas
Galloway turned discussion to Item 3 regarding a definition for the Future
Floodplain.
Scanlon asked for clarification about the recommended definition.
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, stated that option 3, the 2080 Climate
Scenario, is the preferred option.
Scanlon moved to include option 3 (the 2080 Climate Scenario) in Item 3
(in the Chart of Proposed Changes).
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Galloway clarified that this would replace the Future Floodplain definition
in the Glossary.
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Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Elenbaas asked whether the county evaluates or models the chances of sea
level lowering or flood magnitude dropping.
Clemens stated that the future floodplain definition was not clear, and
clarifying what is being mapped provides the opportunity to continue to
reevaluate the hydraulic modeling.
Councilmembers continued to discuss sea and flood mapping models with
Clemens.
Galloway asked where the "future floodplain" term appears in the
Comprehensive Plan chapters.
Clemens stated that the term appears in Chapters 2 and 12.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
Elenbaas asked about the reason for the change in Item 4 in the Chart of
Proposed Council Changes.
Galloway stated that the goal was to provide a more multidisciplinary
approach for the definition of "sustainability."
Elenbaas suggested adding "without intervention" to the definition.
Councilmembers continued to discuss the definition of "sustainability."
Scanlon turned discussion to Appendix J, which outlines subsidized housing
and funding needs.
Elenbaas asked for clarification about the analysis.
Matt Aamot, Planning and Development Services (PDS), stated that the
analysis identifies funding needs for housing, which is a requirement of the
Growth Management Act.
Councilmembers continued to discuss Appendix J.
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Galloway asked about next steps for the appendices.
Kiang Oos, Council Staff, stated that Council could move to prepare the
chapters they've seen.
Scanlon moved to request that staff prepare the Appendices A, B, D, E, G,
H, I, J, and the Foothills Subarea Plan as amended for inclusion in a future
agenda bill file for Council introduction and public hearing.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTIONS) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of the Appendices, which is the current version of the Appendices with Planning
Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional edits proposed by councilmembers as listed in the
Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 5.19.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to include the 2080 Climate Scenario in Appendix A (as stated in Item 3 of the Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 5.19.2026).
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to request that staff prepare the Appendices A, B, D, E, G, H, I, J, and the Foothills Subarea Plan
as amended for inclusion in a future agenda bill file for Council introduction and public hearing.
Committee Discussion (Final Coordination)
Clerk's note: Councilmembers discussed all the of the agenda bill items
under this header together.
Galloway introduced discussion of a chart of Technical Amendments for
5.19.2026 (on file). She stated that Item 1 amends Table 5 in Chapter 1.
Matt Aamot, Planning and Development Services (PDS), stated that Council
previously made an amendment to Table 5, which necessitates the change
presented in Item 1.
Galloway moved to accept Item 1 (in the chart of Technical Amendments
for 5.19.2026) amending Table 5.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final May 19, 2026
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to Item 2 amending Chapter 7.
Galloway moved to accept Item 2 (in the chart of Technical Amendments
for 5.19.2026), which amends Policy 713-12.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to Item 3, which would reconsider Policy
3K-10.
Scanlon proved to strike Policy 3K-10.
Elenbaas seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to Item 4, which would reconsider Policy
9A-14.
Scanlon moved to strike Policy 9A-14.
Elenbaas seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final Nlay 19, 2026
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Abstain: 1 - Rienstra
Elenbaas turned discussion to Policy 9A-13.
Elenbaas moved to amend Policy 9A-13 as follows:
Whatcom County should manage recreation on County -owned or
managed lands in a manner that avoids or minimizes impacts to areas
of known and documented tribal cultural use and protects historical,
cultural, and natural resources. Whatcom County should consult with
the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation and all
interested federally recognized Tribes on all programs or projects
that may impact state and federally defined Tribal resources. Work
in partnership with Tribes to identify where recreation could
co -exist that could support cultural education, stewardship, and
shared understanding.
Stremler seconded the motion.
Bennett Knox, Parks and Recreation, stated that the language regarding
tribal resources was recommended by the Public Works' archeologist.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon asked what happens when the county finds resources that may
belong to indigenous peoples who happen to be located across the Canadian
border.
Knox stated that staff would work with the relevant Tribes in Whatcom
County and with the state to determine the appropriate process for outreach
associated with that kind of situation.
Councilmembers continued to discuss the motion.
The motion failed by the following vote:
Aye: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Nay: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Galloway turned discussion to Item 5, which would amend Policy 3B-4.
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final
Stremler moved to accept Item 5 (in the chart of Technical Amendments
for 5.19.2026).
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
May 19, 2026
Galloway noted that Councilmember Elenbaas' proposed amendments
include Chapter 5 Utilities, so that chapter should come back for discussion
on June 2. She stated that Chapters 1 and 3 may need to be further amended
as a result of discussions with the Tribes, as well.
1. AB2026-185 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 1, Introduction and Growth Projections
Clerk's note: See discussion of this item under the "Committee Discussion
(Final Coordination)" header in the minutes.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to accept Item 1 (in Technical Amendments for 5.19.2026), which amends Table 5 in Chapter 1 on
page 1-12.
2. AB2026-188 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 3, Housing
Clerk's note: See discussion of this item under the "Committee Discussion
(Final Coordination)" header in the minutes.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to strike Policy 3K-10.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to accept Item 5 (in Technical Amendments for 5.19.2026) amending Policy 313-4.
3. AB2026-216 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 4, Capital Facilities
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
4. AB2026-217 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final May 19, 2026
Plan Chapter 5, Utilities
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
5. AB2026-218 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 6, Transportation
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
6. AB2026-231 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 7, Economic Development
Clerk's note: See discussion of this item under the "Committee Discussion
(Final Coordination)" header in the minutes.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to accept Item 2 (in Technical Amendments for 5.19.2026), which amends Policy 7D-12.
7. AB2026-251 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 9, Parks and Recreation
Clerk's note: See discussion of this item under the "Committee Discussion
(Final Coordination)" header in the minutes.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to strike Policy 9A-14.
Committee Discussion (Schedule)
1. AB2026-249 Discussion regarding schedule for Council review of the comprehensive plan update
Galloway provided an overview of Council's schedule for continued review
of the Comprehensive Plan.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed schedule.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
Items Added by Revision
There were no agenda items added by revision.
Other Business
There was no other business.
Adiournment
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final
The meeting adjourned at 3:17 p.m.
The County Council approved these minutes on June 9, 2026.
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May 19, 2026
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WA
Meeting Minutes prepared by Jenna Gernand
Whatcom Coenh' Page 23