Mayor Kim Lund has created a new position on her team, Urban Transformation Strategist, and named longtime planning staffer Darby Galligan to fill it.
The concierge-style role is designed to reduce hurdles to entrepreneurship, business expansion, and job creation, and is a key part of the Mayor’s June 15 Executive Order to advance economic opportunity by supporting both existing employers and new investment.
The Urban Transformation Strategist will:
- Help businesses, developers, investors, artists, and creative partners navigate City processes and identify incentives and funding opportunities.
- Lead cross-sector and cross-department projects aimed at aligning public and private investments and resolving barriers to economic vitality.
- Represent the City of Bellingham to regional partners and in economic development work, including the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.
“Economic vitality contributes directly to community stability, affordability, and overall quality of life,” said Mayor Kim Lund. “As our new Urban Transformation Strategist, Darby will work across departments, cut through complexity, and help turn business ideas into real economic opportunities.”
This new role builds on momentum from previous executive orders, including efforts to support downtown vibrancy and strengthen housing affordability and homeownership opportunities. Together, these initiatives underscore the City’s focus on the overall economic health and wellbeing of the community.
About Darby Galligan
A Western Washington University graduate and longtime leader in the City’s Planning and Community Development Department, Darby Galligan began her new role on August 14, 2026.
“I’ve spent my career helping projects move from idea to reality, and I know having the City’s support and guidance can make a big difference,” said Galligan. “I’m excited to be that resource for Bellingham’s business community.”
Galligan brings extensive experience in community-centered economic development, permitting systems and development regulations, placemaking, community engagement, and strategic planning. At the City, she has served as the City’s liaison to local business associations, improved interdepartmental coordination, and supported major initiatives in downtown and waterfront revitalization, as well as urban village planning.
“Darby is already an incredible advocate for our business community,” said Mayor Lund. “She knows how to get things done, and that’s just what we need right now.”
Building on recent progress
On July 27, Bellingham City Council approved a seven-year B&O tax break for new businesses operating in Bellingham’s downtown core. This change is intended to offset the costs of starting up a new business and help fill vacancies downtown.
The City also created a new Bellingham Business Resources Hub on our website that makes it easier to navigate City processes. This hub provides all of the information current or future business owners operating in Bellingham need in one place, including:
- Data about the local population, permit activity, employment, and more
- Zoning and permit requirements
- Licenses and B&O taxes
- Community organizations that provide support or networking opportunities for business owners
- A step-by-step guide for first-time Bellingham business owners
- And more
Businesses and entrepreneurs interested in help navigating City processes can reach out at business@cob.org or (360) 778-8012.
