Port of Bellingham considers adding two members to commission

The Port of Bellingham is deliberating on expanding its commission from three to five members, a proposal that drew mixed reactions from its current commissioners. Commissioner Ken Bell voiced support for the change, arguing that it would enhance communication between commissioners. In contrast, Commissioner Bobby Briscoe warned that adding two members could lead to politicization and reduce transparency in port operations. The commission aims to gather public opinions before deciding whether to place the issue on the ballot. A vote on this proposal is set for July 15, with potential implications for the upcoming November general election.

Expanding the commission could change the dynamics of decision-making at the port significantly. Currently, the Open Public Meetings Act restricts private conversations among commissioners, which some believe hampers dialogue. If the expansion proceeds, it would allow more informal discussions, raising concerns about the balance between transparency and effective governance.