HomeMy WebLinkAboutSpecial Committee of the Whole Jun 16 2026Whatcom County
Council Special Committee of the Whole
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste 9105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360)778-5010
Committee Minutes - Final
Tuesday, June 16, 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 Nv'hole Committee Minutes - Final
Call To Order
Roll Call
June 16, 2026
Council Chair Kaylee Galloway called the meeting to order at 9:12 a.m. in a
hybrid meeting.
Galloway stated that, due to technical difficulties, they would recess until
9:27 a.m.
The meeting recessed at 9:12 a.m. until 9:27 a.m.
Present: 7 - Elizabeth Boyle, Barry Buchanan, Ben Elenbaas, Kaylee Galloway, Jessica
Rienstra, Jon Scanlon, and Mark Stremler
Announcements
Public Comments (Comprehensive Plan)
1. AB2026-422 Public comments on all items related to the draft Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan
The following people spoke:
• Bridget Bryck
• John Lehman
• Ryan Bowman
• Lisa Adam
• Bill Craven
• Peter Condyles
• David Parsons
• Kaia Hayes
• Heather Witzel Lakin
• Charlie Brown
• Bill Geyer
• Brian Gass
• Perry Eskridge
• Charles Burgess
• Dwayne Engelsman
• Coleman Hoyt
• Alan Chapman
• Andrea Doyle
• Seth Newsome
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
• Scott Rockwell
• Susan Hutton
• Darcy Jones
• Pamela Brady
• Lance Calloway
Hearing no one else, Galloway closed public comment.
This agenda item was RECEIVED.
Committee Discussion (Comprehensive Plan)
1. AB2026-185 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 1, Introduction and Growth Projections
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 1
Introduction. She stated that councilmembers can choose to make motions
to amend the draft.
Elenbaas moved to amend Chapter 1 - Council Draft as Amended
5.19.2026 to include Items 20-26 as shown in the Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 6.16.2026.
Stremler seconded the motion.
Elenbaas provided information about his proposed amendments. He stated
that the Business Coalition's comments repeatedly raised several connected
implementation concerns such as predictable permitting, clear timelines,
etc. He said his amendments create a broad implementation goal and a small
set of supporting policies that apply consistently across the plan.
Scanlon asked where the new goal and policies should be placed within the
chapter. He suggested adding them as a new goal 1 B and associated
policies.
Elenbaas accepted the suggestion as a friendly amendment.
Rienstra asked if staff had comments on the proposal.
Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services (PDS) Director,
stated that the department does not have comments.
Elenbaas amended his motion to replace "shall" statements with "should"
except in Policy 1 B.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Buchanan moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 1 as amended
6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
June 16, 2026
Scanlon clarified that the goal is to prepare the chapters for introduction on
June 23 and a public hearing on July 14.
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 amend Chapter 1 - Council Draft as Amended 5.19.2026 to include Items 20-26 as shown in
the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026 as Goal 1 B and policies 1 B-1 through I B-6, with the word
"shall" in 113-3 changed to "should."
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 1 as amended 6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at
a future meeting.
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.
Scanlon moved to begin review of Chapter 2 using the attachment Chapter 2
- Preliminary Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is the current version of
the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers
as listed in the Chapter 2 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for
6.16.2026.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
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Galloway clarified that the chapter under discussion includes the proposed
amendments, so councilmembers will need to make a motion and vote to
remove any unwanted amendments.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Galloway turned discussion to Item 173 in the Chapter 2 Chart of Proposed
Council Changes for 6.16.2026, which amends Policy 2A-8.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Galloway turned discussion to Item 174, which amends Policy 2A-9.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Boyle asked about the inclusion of language regarding "expansion of
industrial uses."
Elenbaas stated that he sees the policy as encouraging the use of the
county's current industrial lands.
Scanlon questioned the use of the word "ensuring."
Elenbaas suggested changing "ensuring" to "encouraging."
Stremler stated he agrees with the change.
Councilmembers continued to discuss the amendment.
Galloway moved to amend Item 174 so that it reads "...while encouraging
continued viability of industrial uses within designated industrial zones."
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
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Galloway turned discussion to Item 175, amending Goal 2H.
Stremler stated that the amendment is intended to bring clarity to Goal 2H.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Scanlon moved to strike the proposed language in Item 175.
Boyle 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 176, which amends Policy 2N-8.
Boyle provided information about the proposed amendment, stating that she
believes it fairly represents the interests of both industry and community.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Boyle asked if staff have concerns about the proposal.
Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services (PDS) Director,
stated that the department is fully supportive of the wording changes.
Galloway turned discussion to Items 177-179.
Boyle provided information about proposed amendments in Items 177 and
178, which make changes to language in Policy 2CC-20 and 2CC-21
respectively.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendments.
Scanlon provided information about his proposed amendment in Item 179,
which is to revert to the original language as approved by the Planning
Commission for Goal 2CC and all related policies and delete all subsequent
amendments.
Elenbaas directed attention to resolutions (on file) from the Blaine and
Ferndale School Districts in support of economic development and
industrial activity at Cherry Point, as well as a letter (on file) from the City
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of Ferndale regarding the Cherry Point UGA.
Scanlon moved to adopt Item 179.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
Galloway turned discussion to Lummi Nation's comments on Chapter 2.
Galloway moved to include the "Tribal Participation in Whatcom County
Comprehensive Planning" as proposed by Lummi Nation into the GMA
requirements section of Chapter 2.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Scanlon asked where the amendment would appear in the text.
Galloway stated that the amendment would appear on page 2-4 under the
GMA Requirements heading. She said it would create a new subheading with
subsections (a) through (c).
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon suggested simply referring to the RCW rather than restating the
entire code.
Rienstra suggested removing the subsections and replacing them with
"Tribal participation in Whatcom County comprehensive planning continues
to follow RCW 36.70A.040(8).
Galloway amended her motion to state under a new Tribal Participation in
Whatcom County Comprehensive Planning section: Section 36.70A.040(8)
of the Growth Management Act provides for Tribal participation in
Whatcom County comprehensive planning.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Galloway turned discussion to Lummi Nation's comments on Goal 2B. She
said the first recommendation was to add a comment about master plan
resort communities. She suggested adding the comment to the background
paragraph.
Galloway moved to add "Master Planned Resort Communities have
historically been located on sacred, historic and cultural sites that are
significant to Tribes in Whatcom County. These resorts have caused
irreversible damage to Tribes' sacred, culturally sensitive areas, cultural
properties, and/or have made it difficult to practice treaty -protected rights,
gather traditional foods and medicines, to protect and connect with sacred
places" to the background information regarding master plan resort
communities and amend Policy 2B-9 (as proposed by Lummi Nation) to
include the following final sentence: "Master Planned Resorts should not be
located on a Tribe's traditional cultural site and/or usual and accustomed
treaty fishing, hunting, and gathering sites."
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Galloway amended her motion to say: "Engage the Tribes to avoid locating
Master Planned Resorts on a Tribe's traditional cultural site and/or usual
and accustomed treaty fishing, hunting and gathering sites."
Councilmembers continued to discuss the motion.
Galloway amended her motion to only address the background statement
and not 2B-9.
Scanlon asked if legal could weigh in on the proposed amendment.
Rienstra asked if legal review would be provided for all amendments.
Galloway withdrew her motion.
Scanlon asked a question about a proposed amendment that includes an
RCW citation.
Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney, stated that withdrawal of the
proposed amendment is probably appropriate. She added that there will be
legal review as to form of proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan.
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June 16,2026
Galloway asked if councilmembers are interested in adding Lummi Nation's
suggested policy regarding flood infrastructure.
Galloway moved to include new Policy 2K-7 as requested by Lummi
Nation with the addition of Nooksack Tribe and cities of Nooksack,
Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, and Sumas so that the policy reads as follows:
Policy 2K-7 Upgrade and strengthen infrastructure to protect against
flooding.
1. Continue the Floodplain Integrated Planning (FLIP) team
process for
floodplain management planning and prioritization of actions
that protect
against flooding.
2. Implement infrastructure improvements recommended by
FLIP Team
through partnerships with the Cities of Nooksack, Everson,
Ferndale, Lynden, and Sumas and the Lummi Nation and
Nooksack Indian Tribe.
3. Prioritize and implement transportation improvements that
can help
prevent flooding (i.e
Slater Road
Elevation).
Boyle seconded the motion.
Partner with the Lummi Nation on
Scanlon suggested striking the reference to Slater Road.
Galloway accepted the suggestion as a friendly amendment.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon moved to amend Policy 2K-7 to strike the first sentence and
number 1 and begin renumbering after that.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon withdrew his amendment.
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Rienstra suggested striking two and adding "strengthen infrastructure that
protects against."
Galloway accepted the suggestion as a friendly amendment so that the
policy reads as follows:
Policy 2K-7 Upgrade and strengthen infrastructure that protects
against flooding.
1. Continue the Floodplain Integrated Planning (FLIP) team
process for floodplain management planning and
prioritization of actions that protect against flooding.
2. Implement infrastructure improvements recommended by
FLIP Team through partnerships with Cities of Nooksack,
Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, and Sumas and the Lummi Nation
and Nooksack Indian Tribe.
3. Prioritize and implement transportation improvements that
can help
prevent flooding.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Scanlon
Galloway moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 2 as amended today for
introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Council recessed for lunch until 1:15 p.m.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 2 using the attachment Chapter 2 - Preliminary Council Draft for
6.16.2026, which is the current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed in the Chapter 2 - Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026.
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MOTION 2:
June 16, 2026
Motion approved to amend Item 174 (from Chapter 2 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026) to read
"...while encouraging continued viability of industrial uses within designated industrial zones."
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to strike the proposed language in Item 175 (from Chapter 2 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes
for 6.16.2026).
MOTION 4:
Motion approved to adopt Item 179 (from Chapter 2 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026).
MOTION 5:
Motion approved to include a new "Tribal Participation in Whatcom County Comprehensive Planning" subsection on
page 2-4 under the GMA Requirements heading with a new subsection that reads as follows:
"Section 36.70A.040(8) of the Growth Management Act provides for Tribal participation in Whatcom County
comprehensive planning."
MOTION 6:
Motion approved to include new Policy 2K-7 as requested by Lummi Nation with the addition of Nooksack Tribe
and cities of Nooksack, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, and Sumas and the removal of the reference to "Slater Road" so
that the policy reads as follows:
"Policy 2K-7 Upgrade and strengthen infrastructure that protects against flooding.
1. Continue the Floodplain Integrated Planning (FLIP) team process for floodplain management planning and
prioritization of actions that protect against flooding.
2. Implement infrastructure improvements recommended by FLIP Team through partnerships with Cities of
Nooksack, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, and Sumas and the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe.
3. Prioritize and implement transportation improvements that can help prevent flooding."
MOTION 7:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 2 as amended 6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at
a future meeting.
3. AB2026-188 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 3, Housing
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 3 Housing.
Scanlon moved to begin review of Chapter 3 using the attachment Chapter 3
- Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is the current version of the chapter
with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and
additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed
in the Chapter 3 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026.
Boyle 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
Elenbaas moved to amend Items 58-60 (from Chapter 3 - Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026) to replace "shall" with "should"
per Planning and Development Services' recommendation.
Stremler seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Boyle turned discussion to Item 56, which she said may have already been
addressed in Chapter 1 amendments.
Galloway moved to amend Item 56 to replace "shall" with "should."
Boyle 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 Items 61-62.
Boyle provided information about the proposed amendments, which
separate Policy 3A-1 into two policies and amends the last sentence.
Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, stated that the use of
"clear" could be problematic because it is subjective.
Boyle moved to strike the amended language in Item 61.
Scanlon 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
Galloway turned discussion to Item 63.
Matt Aamot, Planning and Development Services (PDS), requested that
"ensure" be changed to "facilitate" in Policy 3A-2.
Galloway moved to change "ensure" to "facilitate" in Policy 3A-2.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Boyle pointed out that "facilitate" is used twice in Policy 3A-2.
Galloway moved to amend Policy 3A-2 to change "facilitate annexation" to
"support annexation."
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas turned discussion to tenant protections in Policy 3K-2, which
were referenced in public comment.
Scanlon moved to amend Policy 3K-2 to strike "adopt" and replace it with
"consider."
Galloway seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Rienstra
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Elenbaas turned discussion to Policy 3K-3.
Councilmembers discussed the policy.
Scanlon moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 3 as amended 6.16.2026
for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Elenbaas stated he still wants to make a motion.
Scanlon withdrew his motion.
Elenbaas moved to delete Policy 3K-3.
Stremler seconded the motion.
The motion failed by the following vote:
Aye: 3 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, and Stremler
Nay: 4 - Galloway, Scanlon, Rienstra, and Boyle
Scanlon moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 3 as amended 6.16.2026
for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Rienstra, Buchanan, Galloway, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 3 using the attachment Chapter 3 - Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which
is the current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional
edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed in the Chapter 3 - Chart of Proposed Council
Changes for 6.16.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to amend Items 58-60 (from Chapter 3 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026) to
replace "shall" with "should" per Planning and Development Services' recommendation.
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to amend Item 56 (from Chapter 3 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026) to
replace "shall" with "should."
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MOTION 4:
Motion approved to strike the amended language in Item 61 (from Chapter 3 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes
for 6.16.2026).
MOTION 5:
Motion approved to change "ensure" to "facilitate" in Policy 3A-2.
MOTION 6:
Motion approved to amend Policy 3A-2 to change "facilitate annexation" to "support annexation."
MOTION 7:
Motion approved to amend Policy 3K-2 to strike "adopt" and replace it with "consider."
MOTION 8:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 3 as amended 6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at
a future meeting.
4. AB2026-216 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 4, Capital Facilities
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Capital
Facilities.
Galloway asked about the motion needed to amend Chapter 4.
Cathy Halka, Clerk of the Council, stated that they could move to begin
review of the current version of the chapter.
Scanlon moved to request that staff prepare Chapter 4, Preliminary Council
Draft for 6.16.2026 including PDS amendment Item 18 in the Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026 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 - Elenbaas and Stremler
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to request that staff prepare Chapter 4, Preliminary Council Draft for 6.16.2026 including PDS
amendment Item 18 in the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026, for inclusion in a future agenda bill file
for Council introduction and public hearing.
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5. AB2026-217 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 5, Utilities
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 5 Utilities,
which does not have any new amendments.
Elenbaas asked if geothermal information was added to Chapter 5.
Scanlon stated that it was included.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
6. AB2026-218 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 6, Transportation
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 6
Transportation.
Elenbaas stated that he wanted to sponsor all of the proposed language from
the Whatcom Business Coalition recommendations, which included
amendments to Chapter 6. He turned discussion to proposed amendments to
Policies 6A-1 and 6A-4.
Kiana Oos, Council Staff, stated that she does not have any current
proposals for Chapter 6, as some that were received were withdrawn.
Lance Calloway stated that the amendments to Chapter 6 were withdrawn.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
AB2026-231 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 7, Economic Development
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7
Economic Development.
Boyle moved to begin review of Chapter 7 using the attachment Chapter 7-
Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is the current version of the chapter
with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and
additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed
in the Chapter 7 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
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Nay: 0
Galloway moved to retain Policy 7B-16.
Buchanan seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Galloway moved to amend Policy 7I-2 to strike the language "without
imposing additional regulatory conditions, mandates, or costs on private
development beyond existing law."
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Galloway provided information about the intent of her proposed
amendment.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Galloway asked Planning and Development Services (PDS) staff to weigh in
on the policy.
Mark Personius, PDS Director, stated that he does not see the policy having
an impact on land use regulations.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Boyle moved to amend Policy 7G-7 to add "Plan for adequate provision of
fully serviced, shovel -ready, and permit ready..."
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Scanlon moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 7 as amended 6.16.2026
for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
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Rienstra seconded the motion.
Elenbaas asked about Policy 713-9 regarding developing a countywide
wetland mitigation bank.
Galloway stated that Policy 713-9 is already incorporated in the draft.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
June 16, 2026
Motion approved to begin review of Chapter 7 using the attachment Chapter 7- Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is
the current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January 2026 and additional edit:
proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed in the Chapter 7 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for
6.16.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to amend to retain Policy 713-16.
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to amend Policy 7I-2 to strike the language "without imposing additional regulatory conditions,
mandates, or costs on private development beyond existing law."
MOTION 4:
Motion approved to amend Policy 7G-7 to add "Plan for adequate provision of fully serviced, shovel -ready, and
permit ready..."
MOTION 5:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 7 as amended 6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at
a future meeting.
8. 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.
Boyle moved to begin review of Chapter 8 using the attachment Chapter 8 -
Preliminary Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is the current version of
the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers
as listed in the Chapter 8 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
6.16.2026.
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 103, which amends the section on
Reducing Land Use Impacts.
Rienstra asked Councilmember Stremler to explain the proposed
amendment.
Stremler stated that Tribal treaty rights are already addressed elsewhere in
the Comprehensive Plan.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed amendment.
Rienstra moved to remove Item 103 and retain the language about treaty
rights.
Galloway seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Scanlon suggested rephrasing to state: "Above all else, treaties shall be
honored and upheld as the supreme law of the land."
Rienstra accepted the suggestion as a friendly amendment.
Galloway suggested stating, "It is also important to honor and uphold
treaties as the supreme law of the land."
Rienstra accepted the suggestion as a friendly amendment.
Rienstra amended her motion to add "pursuant to the US Constitution," so
the sentence reads as follows:
It is also important to honor and uphold treaties as the supreme law
of the land, pursuant to the US Constitution.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Scanlon turned discussion to Planning and Development Services' (PDS)
comments on Policies 8A-2, 8A-15, and 8A-16.
Mark Personius, PDS Director, stated that Carmichael Clark submitted
some revised proposed language for Policy 8A-2 yesterday.
Elenbaas stated that he would support Carmichael's language.
Personius stated that PDS' recommendation is to keep the existing language
to retain "should include" rather than "may."
Councilmembers discussed the proposal.
Elenbaas moved to accept the revised policy language suggested in the
Carmichael Clark document from 6.15.2026 for Policy 8A-2.
Stremler seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Personius stated that PDS is comfortable with the language on screen.
Galloway moved to amend to change "may" to "should" in Policy 8A-2.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Buchanan asked for Galloway to provide an explanation of how she sees
"may" differing from "should."
Galloway stated that there are definitions in code, but "should" provides
more emphasis than "may."
Councilmembers continued to discuss the policy.
The motion to amend carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Rienstra moved to amend Policy 8A-2 to strike "has been" and replace with
"is."
Galloway seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Personius stated that the last agriculture census stated that there were over
100,000 acres in use, though there are only about 88,000 acres zoned as
agriculture.
The motion to amend carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
The main motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas asked about Policy 8A-15.
Personius stated that PDS recommends removing the insertion in Policy
8A-15, as the policy relates to agricultural mitigation. He said that both the
Rural Land Study and the agricultural land assessments are living
documents, which change as conditions change.
Kiana Oos, Council Staff, provided an overview of the options for Policy
8A-15.
Elenbaas moved to amend Policy 8A-15 to reflect the 6.15.2026 version
(recommended by Caitac).
Stremler seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Personius stated that PDS does not recommend the addition of the new
sentence.
Galloway asked if PDS has concerns about the language as presented on
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
screen.
Personius stated that the policy should read as follows:
The County shall require mitigation when lands designated as
agricultural resource lands of long-term commercial significance
under RCW 36.70A.170 are de -designated and converted to urban
growth areas/urban growth area reserve, as applicable, on the
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map that result in
an overall net loss of agricultural designated lands.
Councilmembers continued to discuss the policy.
The motion failed by the following vote:
Aye: 2 - Stremler and Elenbaas
Nay: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Galloway moved the PDS-recommended version of Policy 8A-15, which
strikes language and amends subsection 8A-15(B), so that the policy reads
as follows:
The County shall require mitigation when lands designated as
agricultural resource lands of long-term commercial significance
under RCW 36.70A.170 are de -designated and converted to urban
growth areas/urban growth area reserve, as applicable, on the
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map that result in
an overall net loss of agricultural designated lands.
The mitigation requirements shall include:
A. ...
B. For each property designated as agricultural resource land (ARL)
at the time of adoption of this Comprehensive Plan, a mitigation
agreement memorialized by covenant between the affected
property owner(s), city and the county shall be required and filed
with the County Auditor within:
Rienstra seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, and Rienstra
Nay: 2 - Stremler and Scanlon
Abstain: 1 - Elenbaas
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Personius stated that Council has a remaining amendment for Policy 8A-16
to consider.
Scanlon moved to approve the PDS version of Policy 8A-16.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, Elenbaas, and
Stremler
Nay: 0
Elenbaas asked about the creation of small -lot ag zones in 40-acre zones.
Person ius stated that the Rural Land Study focuses on 10-zoned areas.
Scanlon moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 8 as amended for
introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
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 Chapter 8 using the attachment Chapter 8 - Preliminary Council Draft for
6.16.2026, which is the current version of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers as listed in the Chapter 8 - Chart of
Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to remove Item 103 (from the Chart of Proposed Council Changes for 6.16.2026) and retain the
language about treaty rights as amended so that the final sentence of the "Reducing Land Use Impacts" section reads
as follows:
"It is also important to honor and uphold treaties as the supreme law of the land, pursuant to the US Constitution."
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to amend Carmichael Clark's Policy 8A-2 to change "may" to "should."
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee :Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
MOTION 4:
Motion approved to amend Carmichael Clark's Policy 8A-2 to change "has been' to "is."
MOTION 5:
Motion approved to accept the revised policy language suggested in the Carmichael Clark document from 6.15.2026
for Policy 8A-2, as amended so that the policy reads as follows:
"Maintain a working agricultural land base sufficient to support a viable local agricultural industry by considering the
impacts to farmers, farmworkers and other food chain workers and agricultural lands as apart of the legislative
decision making process. The County's longstanding goal is to maintain a minimum of 100,000 acres of agricultural
land to support a healthy agricultural industry. To support working farms and maintain the agricultural land base the
County should:
• Maintain a voluntary density credit program where development incentives are offered in cities and/or
UGAs if density credits are purchased by the developer. Funds from the density credit program shall supplement the
Conservation Easement Program..."
MOTION 6:
Motion approved to accept the PDS-recommended version of Policy 8A-15, which strikes language and amends
subsection 8A-15(B) so that the policy reads as follows:
"The County shall require mitigation when lands designated as agricultural resource lands of long-term commercial
significance under RCW 36.70A.170 are de -designated and converted to urban growth areas/urban growth area
reserve, as applicable, on the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map that result in an overall net loss
of agricultural designated lands.
The mitigation requirements shall include:
A....
B. For each property designated as agricultural resource land (ARL) at the time of adoption of this Comprehensive
Plan, a mitigation agreement memorialized by covenant between the affected property owner(s), city and the county
shall be required and filed with the County Auditor within:..."
MOTION 7:
Motion approved to approve the PDS version of Policy 8A-16.
MOTION 8:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 8 as amended for introduction and public hearing at a future
meeting.
9. AB2026-251 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 9, Parks and Recreation
Galloway stated that there are no additional proposed amendments to
Comprehensive Plan Chapter 9 Parks and Recreation.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
10. AB2026-261 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 10, Environment
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 10
Environment.
Scanlon moved to begin review of Chapter 10 using the attachment Chapter
10 - Preliminary Council Draft for 6.16.2026, which is the current version
of the chapter with Planning Commission recommendations from January
2026 and additional edits proposed and motions passed by councilmembers
as listed in the Chapter 10 - Chart of Proposed Council Changes for
6.16.2026.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion failed by the following vote:
Aye: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Nay: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Galloway moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 10 as amended on
6.2.2026 for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
Elenbaas stated that he was going to move recommended edits from AGC to
Chapter 10.
Scanlon stated that he felt a lot of the proposed amendments were
duplicative or would require additional stakeholder work.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 10 as amended on 6.2.2026 for introduction and public hearing
at a future meeting.
11. AB2026-262 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Chapter 12, Climate
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Chapter 12
Climate.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, stated that she would like to respond to
stakeholder comments regarding how emissions targets are calculated.
Clemens shared proposed draft language on screen clarifying the
relationship between the GMA planning requirements and existing state and
federal regulations. She stated that the language might be important to add
specifically as it relates to emissions tracking over time.
Galloway moved to amend Chapter 12 - Preliminary Council Draft as
amended 5.19.2026 to include the new section titled "Relationship to
Federal, State, and Regional Regulations" as presented on screen.
Boyle seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed addition with Clemens.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Elenbaas, and Scanlon
Nay: 1 - Stremler
Boyle moved to request staff to prepare Chapter 12 as amended 6.16.2026
for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
Scanlon 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 MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to amend Chapter 12 — Preliminary Council Draft as amended 5.19.2026 to include the new
section, Relationship to Federal, State, and Regional Regulations, as presented on screen.
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Chapter 12 as amended 6.16.2026 for introduction and public hearing at
a future meeting.
12. 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 1: Housing
Needs Analysis, Appendix J: Subsidized Housing Needs and Funding) and Foothills
Subarea Plan Amendments
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
Galloway introduced discussion of the Comprehensive Plan Appendices.
Scanlon moved to approve the new version of Appendix D: Bibliography for
6.16.2026.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Scanlon moved to approve the new version of Appendix E: 20-year capital
facilities plan for 6.16.2026.
Buchanan seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Galloway asked if there are any other amendments.
Personius stated there are not.
Boyle moved to request staff to prepare the Appendices A, B, D, E, G, H, I,
J, and the Foothills Subarea Plan as amended for introduction and public
hearing at a future meeting.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to approve the new version of Appendix D: Bibliography for 6.16.2026,
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to approve the new version of Appendix E: 20-Year Capital Facilities Plan for 6.16.2026.
MOTION 3:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare the Appendices A, B, D, E, G, H, I, J, and the Foothills Subarea Plan as
amended for introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
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Council Special Committee of the whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
13. AB2026-473 Discussion and preliminary Council direction on Whatcom County Comprehensive
Plan Appendix L: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Subelement, Washington
State Department of Commerce Approval
Galloway introduced discussion of Comprehensive Plan Appendix L.
Lauren Clemens, Public Works, stated that Council approved a resolution
stating their plan to submit the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Subelement for
state review and approval. Within that review process, the county needs to
provide a policy index that specifically states which policies are within the
scope. She said the appendix will be submitted as supporting documentation
in the approval process. She added that Cherry Point amendments removed
earlier today will be taken out of the chart since they do not have
preliminary Council approval. She noted that, in the future, Council can use
discretion about whether or not to resubmit the items for approval;
otherwise, items will go through the regular 60-day-notice period.
Boyle moved to request staff to prepare Appendix L - Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Subelement for introduction and public hearing at a future
meeting.
Scanlon seconded the motion.
Galloway moved to amend Appendix L to strike reference to 2CC-19
through 2CC-21.
Boyle seconded the motion.
The motion to amend carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
The main motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, and Scanlon,
Nay: 2 - Elenbaas and Stremler
Elenbaas asked about the 2CC policies.
Clemens stated that the state is only reviewing new amendments.
This agenda item was DISCUSSED AND MOTION(S) APPROVED.
MOTION 1:
Motion approved to amend Appendix L to strike reference to 2CC-19 through 2CC-21.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final June 16, 2026
MOTION 2:
Motion approved to request staff to prepare Appendix L - Greenhouse Gas Reduction Subelement as amended for
introduction and public hearing at a future meeting.
14. AB2026-249 Discussion regarding schedule for Council review of the comprehensive plan update
Galloway introduced discussion of the updated schedule for Comprehensive
Plan review. She stated that Council plans to introduce ordinances adopting
all Comprehensive Plan -related items on June 23. A public hearing and final
action is planned for the Council meeting on July 14.
Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, stated that the turnaround
time for legal review is not realistic. She said her preference would be to
delay introduction until July 14, but it is Council's call.
Galloway stated they could stick with the current schedule and plan to
re -introduce if legal finds any issues. She asked whether there has been
discussion about the implementation of an memorandum of agreement
(MOA) received from Nooksack.
Mark Personius, Planning and Development'Services (PDS) Director,
stated that the MOA was received very recently;' -so it is currently being
reviewed by legal and conversations are ongoing: Personius added that PDS
does not have concerns about pushing introduction of the Comprehensive
Plan ordinances to July 14. i
Kiana Oos, Council Staff, stated that the: Comprehensive Plan ordinances
will not be available until later in the week (around June 18).
This agenda item was DISCUSSED.
Items Added by Revision
Other Business
There were no agenda items added by revision.
Scanlon moved that Council supports including evaluation of potential
industrial lands reserve study areas or overlays as part of the UGAR study
that has been docketed under PLN2026-00011, including consideration of
up to 500 acres countywide for potential future industrial land.
Rienstra seconded the motion.
Scanlon provided information about the purpose of the motion.
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Council Special Committee of the Whole Committee Minutes - Final
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Boyle, Buchanan, Galloway, Rienstra, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Elenbaas
Out of Meeting: 1 - Buchanan
June 16, 2026
MOTION 1:
Motion approved that Council supports including evaluation of potential industrial lands reserve study areas or
overlays as part of the UGAR study that has been docketed under PLN2026-00011, including consideration of up to
500 acres countywide for potential future industrial land.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m.
The County Council approved these minutes on July 14, 2026.
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WA
Meeting Minutes prepared by Jenna Gernand
Whatcom County page 29
Kaylee Galloway, Council Chair