Advocacy & Issues

Finding Solutions to Waterfront Challenges

The Coalition realizes that there is no magic bullet, or quick solution, that resolves every challenge. We receive issues from our members and then work collaboratively with all stakeholders to develop strategies and solutions to support the economic vitality of our working waterfronts for all of Whatcom County.

Whether advocating for favorable rental policies, pushing for infrastructure upgrades, supporting environmental clean up and stewardship, or developing workforce education/training programs to ensure a competent workforce for our members, the Coalition works to preserve and save the waterfront. Together with key organizations, individuals and companies, we utilize collaborative models of communication, scientifically-based data, factual information, and a steady approach to solve the challenges our county and region face, and build waterfronts that work for all.

Preserving Our Working Waterfronts

At our request, the Port Commission authorized a joint Coalition/Port committee to cooperatively draft planning document amendments focused on developing a corporate goal designed to preserve and expand marine trades properties.

This ongoing effort positively affects Port policy towards the maritime sector for years to come. This process may lead to

Requests for zoning changes that provide further protection (such as the C. St. marine trades area),
Requests for signage promoting our working waterfronts, collaborating on projects for help and outreach to the community regarding our waterfronts,
And much more...

The Coalition regularly communicates with Port, City and County staff, Council Members and Commissioners about ongoing developments, projects and efforts around our shores and maritime businesses.

Upgrades and Clean-up

Neglect of Blaine Harbor infrastructure for many years is now being addressed, with the Port having spent over $10 million since 2016, with more to follow. Bulkheads, docks, roads, and buildings are being repaired or replaced to allow expansion of the boatyard and seafood processors. A new weblocker building has just been completed.

The Coalition helped organize stakeholder/Port Staff meetings enabling valuable input from harbor users, a process that continues today.

Commercial Marine Water-Reliant Rental Policy

The Port of Bellingham was losing marine trades tenants from its harbor buildings and facing difficulty filling those vacancies. A Coalition initiative that gained Commission support led to the formation of a joint committee under the direction of Real Estate Director Shirley McFearin.

This committee drafted the Commercial Marine Water-Reliant Rental Policy, which was approved unanimously by the Port Commission. The successful new policy included a 10% discount for qualifying marine trades companies which contributed to declining vacancies in harbor buildings, and more stability for existing tenants.

The NW Maritime Apprenticeship Program

Addressing the strong need for competent workforce by our member companies, the Northwest Maritime Apprenticeship Program is now in its 3rd year.

The Coalition partners with the Whatcom Working Waterfront Foundation to offer scholarships for program areas supporting marine trades, as well as developed the Northwest maritime Apprenticeship Program, launched in September of 2022.

The Whatcom Working Waterfront Foundation

A waterfront for all

The Redevelopment of the former Georgia Pacific site along the Whatcom Waterway envisions a substantial float for moorage for visiting boats and for local commercial fishermen to sell their catch directly from their boats. Public access via a ramp is vital as well.

The Coalition has engaged with the Port regarding the ongoing development and encouraged the Port to install this float and public access in their long-range plans for the south side of the Whatcom Waterway.

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