Dear Bellingham Residents,
I look forward to the holidays and celebration of the New Year as a time to reflect on the accomplishments of the past 12 months and set goals for the coming year. This reflection comes at a time when I also am completing my first year as the Mayor of Bellingham. And what a rich, rewarding, fast-paced year it has been!
I've been delighted to work with so many thoughtful, engaged citizens, especially the hundreds and hundreds of people who give generously of their time and expertise to participate in and promote our strong, healthy community. We’ve worked hard this year to continue building our partnerships with neighborhoods, local organizations and community members, and will continue this important work in 2009.
We've also made progress on key community priorities, such as promoting a “green,” sustainable Bellingham, protecting Lake Whatcom - our precious source of drinking water - and redeveloping the city's waterfront into a vibrant, successful new part of our downtown.
This year has held both opportunities and challenges, including a new Mayor and City Council members, a number of key personnel transitions, and increasingly difficult financial circumstances. Our fiscal realities today remain uncertain, but we are confident that we'll continue to serve the citizens of Bellingham with wise, informed financial decisions. I look forward to working closely with the City Council and community as we make decisions that strengthen the city’s long-term financial outlook.
When I took office one year ago, I particularly focused on bringing the broadest possible spectrum of our community to the table to address critical needs and decisions. From our diverse backgrounds and common values we will find our way in a future that is filled with opportunities and challenges. I offer my heartfelt thanks to all who have been involved in the many important issues facing city government. I have learned from you and grown from your wise counsel. Together, we have tackled key issues and positioned city government to address even more.
Special thanks as well to the many highly competent, enthusiastic city staff who I've come to know as key partners in serving the citizens of Bellingham.
May the winter holidays bring joy and special times to you, your friends and your families.
~ Mayor Dan Pike
Published: Dec 9, 2008
