Council Member Lisa Anderson

Education/experience

• AA, Whatcom Community College
• BA, Western Washington University
• Master of Education, Western Washington University

Community involvement

• Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services Board of Directors

Council committees

• Climate Action Committee
• Planning Committee
• Public Works and Natural Resources Committee
• Chamber of Commerce
• Higher Education Liaison
• Whatcom Museum Foundation

Lisa Anderson began her first term on the Bellingham City Council in 2020, a year that unfolded quite differently than expected due to the onset of the global pandemic. Her initial goals quickly shifted to focus on pandemic response and ensuring financial stability for both the City and the broader community. Despite the challenges, several key initiatives moved forward during her first year, including: 

• Advancing apprenticeships for large City contracts (finalized in 2021) 
• Initiating a long-range restorative plan for Whatcom Creek (added to the 2021 agenda) 
• Increasing funding for housing access and houseless outreach by $1.5 million (2021–2022) 
• Launching an advisory group to explore public fiber 
• Preparing a “dig once” ordinance for early 2021 consideration 
• Sponsoring the hazard pay ordinance for grocery workers  

A resident of Bellingham for more than 35 years – and of the 5th Ward for more than 25 years – Lisa has a long history of community involvement. From 2009 to 2015, she served on the York Neighborhood Association Board, including time as president, where she partnered with Sehome Neighborhood Association President Harriet Spanel to improve safety and vitality along the Samish Way Corridor. She also played a key role in championing rental registration to ensure safe and healthy housing and served on the Mayor’s Neighborhood Advisory Commission. 

In 2016, Lisa was appointed to the Bellingham Planning Commission and served on the Shoreline Committee. As a commissioner, she worked to support smart growth while ensuring that the voices of neighbors and business leaders were heard. Now, as a City Council Member, she continues to lead with collaboration and respectful communication, striving to find common ground and represent the diverse perspectives of the community. 

Lisa’s priorities include addressing environmental protection, affordable and workforce housing, employment needs, and public safety, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility. She is committed to long-range planning that safeguards clean water – from Lake Whatcom to the Salish Sea – supports economic development, improves municipal infrastructure, expands housing and mental health services, and enhances livability and the unique character that makes Bellingham a special place to call home. 

A proud AFSCME union member, Lisa works full-time at Whatcom Community College, helping community members achieve their educational goals. Her family, especially her grandchildren, inspires her ongoing dedication to building a better future for Bellingham.