Bookish highlights to cap off your year: What better way to celebrate the new year than with some recommendations from our favorite library staff! As part of their end-of-year highlights, the Bellingham Public Library staff compiled their 2023 Staff Picks Lists, the best-loved library materials that staff read, watched or listened to throughout the year. From nonfiction to graphic novels and movie recommendations to children’s books, you’re sure to find something to love too!
Thank you for your service: We say farewell and thank you this weekend to outgoing Bellingham Mayor Seth Fleetwood and outgoing City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens.
Mayor Seth Fleetwood completes his term of office after serving as Mayor during one of the most tumultuous and challenging times in Bellingham history. He brought commitment and collaboration to the position and assembled a strong leadership team that served as a driving force in maintaining Bellingham’s vision and resilience in the face of these challenges. Mayor Fleetwood and his team share a long list of accomplishments over the last four years in addition to leading the City through the COVID-19 pandemic. More details, links to a City Council resolution in his honor and a video of their remarks, on our Honoring Mayor Seth Fleetwood page.
Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens, the first Black woman to serve on the Bellingham City Council, completes her two-year term of office having served with candor and compassion. She is known as a steadfast advocate for community members — especially those representing historically underserved communities — and for “walking the talk.” More details, links to a City Council resolution in her honor and a video of their remarks, on our Honoring Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens page.
Welcoming new elected officials: The Bellingham City Council will host a public swearing-in ceremony for new and returning City elected officials at 7 p.m. January 8, 2024. Municipal Court Judge Debra Lev will administer the ceremonial oath of office to Mayor-elect Kim Lund, new City Councilmember Jace Cotton, and returning City Councilmembers Lisa Anderson, Dan Hammill and Hannah Stone. Each officially assumes their responsibilities on January 1, 2024.
Happy New Year!
