Ferndale City Council

**Joel Rubin, on Trump administration grant funding:** "What we did see with new awards, the major programs the build program, which is a big transportation program, were allocated pretty evenly across blue States and red states." **Brian Enslow, on budget challenges:** "I don't know if I came prepared to talk about successes. I think I did that last April or June when I came here, but because mostly I'm here to not grow my heart 2 times and to be very grinching and talk about just like it's gonna be a tough session." **Administrator Burnett, on Ferndale's position:** "We've tried to position ourselves where we would be able to come to the state this year asking for stuff, not money necessarily... So this gives us the ability to come to the state without our hair on fire to offer solutions." **Council Member Porter, on tax policy:** "You realize that once you impose the state income tax, it's not gonna take very long before it starts trickling down and eventually gets to the middle

# Advocacy Updates and Civic Campus Progress — January 5, 2026 Ferndale City Council Meeting ## Meeting Overview On a Monday evening in early January, the Ferndale City Council convened for their first meeting of 2026, bringing together elected officials, city staff, and residents to chart a course for the year ahead. The meeting at City Hall Annex carried the ceremonial significance of swearing in three councilmembers — O'Larey, Pinkley, and Mutchler — while also serving as a crucial planning session for the city's state and federal advocacy efforts. The evening's agenda reflected the dual nature of municipal governance: honoring democratic traditions while tackling the practical challenges of securing funding and navigating complex political landscapes. Two presentations dominated the meeting, offering detailed looks at how Ferndale positions itself in the corridors of power in both Olympia and Washington, D.C., while department reports revealed the steady progress of major infrastructure projects like the Civic Campus. ## Police Accountability Public Comment The meeting began with an impassioned public comment from a speaker who did not identify themselves for the record but delivered a pointed critique of local law enforcement. The speaker described being victims of death threats alongside three others, alleging that both Ferndale and Blaine police departments failed to provide adequate protection or investigation. "We've all heard the phrase cops protect cops," the speaker began. "It sounds like something from the movies, but this is real life in Ferndale and Blaine. It wasn't enough that we were threatened by a violent felon with murder. We were also victimized by the very police...who swore an oath to protect the citizens without fear or favor? Who did they protect? Their own." The speaker detailed their experience with what they described as a compromised investigation, alleging that when they requested help from Officer Hart and Chief Huffman to secure an unbiased investigator, their pleas were ignored. "Chief Huffman, you told 4 victims of a court verified death threat to get help themselves," they said. "You refused to help us. You told us to pursue the attorney general with this tainted and compromised investigation." The allegations painted a picture of systemic failure, with the speaker asserting that "the person who threatened to kill us is still walking free to this day." They expressed particular frustration with what they characterized as police departments protecting their own rather than serving the community. However, the speaker also conveyed hope for accountability, noting they had involved the Criminal Justice Training Commission. "They will be the ultimate decision on whether someone should keep the authority they've been trusted with when protecting your own overrides protecting the citizens from murder. Something has gone terribly wrong. When police refused to hold themselves accountable. Someone else will." The comment concluded with a warning: "And this time it won't be behind closed doors." Chief Huffman, who was present at the meeting, did not respond to the allegations, following the city's standard practice of not addressing public comments during meetings. ## Federal Advocacy with CFM Advocates Joel Rubin of CFM Advocates presented the city's federal advocacy strategy, beginning with what many had worried about: how a change in presidential administration might affect grant funding for communities like Ferndale. His assessment offered both reassurance and realism about the current political climate. "There was a little bit of concern from folks generally with a new administration coming in that the Trump administration...would not be spending a lot of money in blue states with grant awards," Rubin explained. However, his analysis revealed a more nuanced picture: "For the new programs that he's awarding funding awards...they are actually distributed pretty normally among blue States and red states." The Trump administration had frozen some Biden-era programs, including the BRIC resiliency program for disaster mitigation and electric vehicle charging initiatives. But when it came to new awards, Rubin noted that major programs like BUILD transportation funding and Safe Streets for All were being allocated fairly across partisan lines. "There is a reasonable chance of success under this administration moving forward, as long as you're meeting the criteria of the different grant programs," he assured the council. Rubin detailed Ferndale's recent federal successes, highlighting $1.75 million in congressionally directed spending for the Civic Campus and a $4 million authorization for the Grandview Sewer Extension project. "Congressman Larson was able to secure a $4 million authorization for the Grandview Sewer Extension project," he noted. "And that is something that we're going to be working with his office to bring those resources back to the community." Looking ahead, Rubin outlined the city's 2026 federal priorities, including continued pursuit of Portal Way improvements that would transform the corridor from its current "Highway 99" configuration to include sidewalks, lighting, transit, and bicycle lanes. A $1 million planning grant application was pending at the Department of Transportation, with awards expected in January or February. The presentation also covered an innovative youth opioid prevention pilot program based on the Icelandic model. "There's been some incidents in the community that...the community is looking to address," Rubin explained. "We're looking to hire additional district resource officer for your schools to put...a prevention counselor in place so that there's a wrap around services for youth." Perhaps most significantly, Rubin discussed the looming transportation reauthorization bill, set to expire in September 2026. The infrastructure law had expanded major transportation programs from three to 23, many of which Ferndale could access. With Congressman Larson serving as lead Democrat on the House Transportation Committee, Ferndale was well-positioned to influence the reauthorization process. Councilmember Pinkley asked about opportunities arising from the Trump administration's focus on energy and infrastructure. Rubin highlighted the challenges facing communities regarding electricity grid demands from AI development and the need for regional collaboration to address rising energy costs. He emphasized that safety issues and fentanyl prevention would be particularly popular with the current administration. ## State Advocacy with Arbutus Consulting Brian Enslow of Arbutus Consulting delivered a more sobering assessment of the state political landscape, beginning with what he acknowledged would be a challenging presentation. "I don't know if I came prepared to talk about successes," Enslow said. "Because mostly I'm here to...be very grinching and talk about just like...it's gonna...it's gonna tough. Session starts next Monday." The state faced multiple fiscal pressures, including poor revenue forecasts, inflationary pressures, and significant costs from recent flooding throughout Western Washington. Governor Ferguson's budget included $155 million in backfills to address federal cuts, with more potential needs emerging. Despite these challenges, Enslow noted improved communication between the governor and legislature compared to the previous year. "Governor Ferguson's now been there a year. His staff has now been there a year and they've been having conversations with legislative partners for a year," he explained. This coordination was evidenced by the governor's willingness to consider legislative income tax proposals rather than automatically vetoing them. Enslow outlined several areas where Ferndale could make meaningful contributions despite the tight fiscal environment. The city's reputation as a forward-thinking community positioned it to help with permitting reform and planning efficiencies. "For a community of your size you have been a consistently a leader and being...forward thinking and proactive about how you plan for and accommodate growth in this community," he noted. The presentation covered emerging issues like e-bike regulations, where current law lacked clear definitions between e-bikes and e-motorcycles, creating enforcement challenges. "What we're trying to figure out is how do we...get better definitions about what's in E bike versus what's in E motorcycle and then...regulation or enforcement...is needed," Enslow explained. Regarding annexation facilitation, Ferndale had been an early voice in conversations about harmonizing local government regulations, particularly around Urban Growth Areas. The city had presented to the House Local Government committee and would continue advocating for solutions. Enslow also discussed the Washington Main Street program, describing it as potentially Ferndale's last opportunity to join. "We have a really well...articulated vision, how we feel like it could benefit our community in a myriad of ways," he said. "We have...one more shot at it and so we have all intention of working very hard this year." The state agenda included support for the Nooksack Community Land Trust's housing project, which had received full funding in the governor's proposed budget at $8 million. Enslow called it "a very significant investment by the executive in an otherwise very tight capital budget." Councilmember Porter questioned the philosophical tension in Washington state politics, noting years of expansion and spending followed by tax increases, with current fiscal challenges. Enslow acknowledged the state's unique vulnerability compared to other states with sovereign immunity protections, noting Washington's complete waiver of sovereign immunity and joint and several liability rules that exposed governments to significant financial risk. When Councilmember O'Larey asked about the "sip and stroll" concept allowing alcohol consumption between establishments, Enslow revealed that legislation had passed the previous year for World Cup events, creating limited opportunities for such programs. However, he noted the tension between this concept and potential .05 DUI legislation. ## December 2025 Claims Approval With committee meetings cancelled prior to this meeting, the December 2025 claims required approval during the regular session. Councilmember Mutchler moved for approval, seconded by Councilmember O'Larey, and the motion passed unanimously without discussion, reflecting the routine nature of monthly financial obligations. ## Council and Department Reports Councilmember Porter shared positive news from Fire District 7, reporting on a recent graduation ceremony for 19 new firefighters, 10 from District 7. "I had the privilege of attending the ceremony at the Marion High School Auditorium and it was a great time," Porter said. The new firefighters would complete EMT training before becoming full-fledged firefighters able to pull shifts. Councilmember Gunter provided updates from the Senior Center, noting ongoing grant applications and an upcoming pancake breakfast on January 17th. The $50 annual membership drive was also underway. Councilmember Mutchler added that the breakfast was open to all community members, not just seniors. Councilmember O'Larey offered thanks to Chief Huffman and the Police Department "for all the good work they do," a comment that took on additional significance given the earlier public comment criticizing the department. ## Civic Campus Construction Milestone Public Works Director Kevin Renz reported a significant milestone in the Civic Campus project: "Dawson Construction did the first pour for the parking garage walls. So we actually have vertical concrete...for the Civic campus." The achievement represented tangible progress on the major municipal project that had been years in planning and development. Renz explained the construction sequence ahead: "They're gonna be stripping for him shortly and then proceeding to form...and do more pours on those...walls. So we'll have a parking garage and then they'll start doing the...slab for the first floor." ## New Police Officers and Department Growth Chief Huffman announced the department's continued expansion with two new officers starting within a week of each other. "We had a new officer start today and we have another one start next week," he reported, promising to introduce them at the next council meeting. The department planned an open house for January 28th to showcase these additions to the community. ## Community Engagement and Recognition Communications Officer Megan Juenemann provided updates on several community initiatives, beginning with gratitude for the successful City of Lightdale holiday decoration contest. "That was a huge success. We received a ton of positive feedback," she announced, revealing the winners: house #7 in first place, house #6 in second, and house #2 in third. The Parks, Recreation and Trails Advisory Board was hosting January fitness clinics in partnership with local gyms, offering free sessions for ages 14 and over on January 10th and 17th. Pre-registration was available through the city's website. Perhaps most significantly, the city launched a photo contest seeking community perspectives for the new city website. "We all know we launched our new website, but it's lacking some photos of what makes Ferndale great," Juenemann explained. "While we are asking if photographers want to submit, this is more for community members. We want to see the city of Ferndale through the community's eyes." ## Planning Commission Public Hearing Community Development Director Mike Cerbone reminded residents of an upcoming Planning Commission meeting featuring a public hearing on proposed zoning for the comprehensive plan. The Wednesday evening session would provide opportunity for community feedback on important land use decisions. ## Closing & What's Ahead As the meeting concluded just before 8 p.m., Mayor Hansen entertained a motion from Councilmember Porter, seconded by Councilmember Gunter, to adjourn. The unanimous approval closed an evening that effectively balanced ceremony with substance, setting the stage for a year of advocacy efforts, construction progress, and community engagement. The presentations from both Rubin and Enslow painted a picture of cautious optimism despite challenging political and fiscal environments. Ferndale's reputation as a proactive, well-managed community appeared to position it favorably for future opportunities, whether seeking federal grants or participating in state programs. With the Civic Campus showing visible progress, new police officers joining the force, and comprehensive planning moving forward, the city entered 2026 with momentum across multiple fronts. The advocacy strategies outlined would be tested in the coming months as both state and federal legislative sessions unfolded, but Ferndale appeared well-prepared for whatever challenges and opportunities lay ahead. The evening's blend of accountability concerns, infrastructure celebrations, and strategic planning captured the complexity of local governance, where immediate community needs intersect with long-term vision and where past decisions shape future possibilities.

### Meeting Overview The Ferndale City Council convened on January 6, 2026, for their first meeting of the new year, featuring swearing-in ceremonies and presentations from both federal and state advocates outlining legislative priorities and advocacy strategies for the coming year. ### Key Terms and Concepts **CFM Advocates:** Ferndale's federal lobbying firm led by Joel Rubin that has represented the city for four years, securing over $30 million in federal funding for local projects. **Arbutus Consulting:** The city's state lobbying firm led by Brian Enslow, representing Ferndale for nearly a decade in Olympia legislative matters. **Congressionally Directed Spending:** Federal earmarks or community project funding secured through Congressional appropriations, formerly called earmarks. **Transportation Reauthorization Bill:** A five-year federal infrastructure package expiring September 2026 that funds major transportation programs nationwide. **Grandview Sewer Extension:** A major infrastructure project with $4 million in authorized federal funding to extend sewer services and support housing development. **Portal Way Improvements:** A planned $12-15 million project to rebuild Portal Way with sidewalks, lighting, transit, and bike lanes connecting east and west Ferndale. **Main Street Program:** Washington State economic development program that Ferndale has been working to join for downtown revitalization efforts. **E-bike Regulation:** Emerging transportation policy issue regarding definitions, licensing, and enforcement of electric bicycles versus motorcycles. ### Key People at This Meeting | Name | Role / Affiliation | |---|---| | Greg Hansen | Mayor | | Joel Rubin | CFM Advocates (Federal Lobbyist) | | Brian Enslow | Arbutus Consulting (State Lobbyist) | | Jori Burnett | City Administrator | | Herb Porter | Councilmember | | Ryan O'Larey | Councilmember | | Robert Pinkley | Councilmember | | Jon Mutchler | Councilmember | | Erin Gunter | Councilmember | | Ali Hawkinson | Councilmember | | McKenna Pinto-Gonzalez | Councilmember | ### Background Context The meeting occurred amid challenging budget environments at both state and federal levels. Washington State faces significant fiscal constraints, with the 2026 session being a shorter 60-day session typically producing fewer legislative opportunities. Federally, the Trump administration has frozen some grant programs while maintaining others, creating uncertainty for future funding. Despite these challenges, Ferndale's strong fiscal position allows the city to approach both Olympia and Washington DC offering solutions rather than seeking emergency assistance, potentially strengthening their advocacy position for future projects. ### What Happened — The Short Version The meeting began with routine business including approval of the consent agenda and December claims. Joel Rubin presented the federal advocacy agenda, highlighting continuing opportunities for funding despite political transitions, with specific focus on the Grandview sewer extension, Portal Way improvements, and a youth opioid prevention pilot program. Brian Enslow followed with the state agenda, painting a challenging picture of budget constraints in Olympia but identifying opportunities in permitting reform, annexation facilitation, and Main Street program participation. Both advocates emphasized the importance of the upcoming transportation reauthorization and various infrastructure funding opportunities, while noting Ferndale's advantageous position as a financially stable community able to offer expertise rather than merely request assistance. ### What to Watch Next - Mayor Hansen's trip to Washington DC in February/March to advocate for federal priorities - 60-day Washington State legislative session starting January 13, 2026 - Transportation reauthorization bill markup expected February/March 2026 - Portal Way grant award announcements expected January/February 2026 - Main Street Program application and coordination with state agencies ---

**Q:** How long has CFM Advocates represented Ferndale? **A:** Four years, with Joel Rubin as the principal working on the city's federal advocacy efforts. **Q:** What is the total amount of federal funding CFM has helped secure for Ferndale? **A:** Over $30 million in direct funding that the city otherwise would not have received. **Q:** How much federal funding is authorized for the Grandview Sewer Extension? **A:** $4 million has been authorized by Congressman Larson, which CFM is working to turn into actual funding. **Q:** What is the estimated cost of the Portal Way improvement project? **A:** Between $12-15 million for construction to rebuild Portal Way with modern infrastructure. **Q:** How many new firefighters did Fire District 7 graduate in their recent recruit class? **A:** 10 firefighters from Fire District 7 were among 19 total graduates from multiple districts. **Q:** What is the cost of annual membership at the Senior Center? **A:** $50 for yearly membership, with pancake breakfasts held the third Saturday of each month. **Q:** How long is the 2026 Washington State legislative session? **A:** 60 days, which is considered a "short session" with fewer legislative opportunities. **Q:** When does the federal transportation reauthorization bill expire? **A:** September 2026, requiring Congressional action to continue major transportation programs. **Q:** What major infrastructure milestone occurred at the Civic Campus? **A:** The first concrete pour for parking garage walls, creating the first vertical concrete structure. **Q:** How much funding was included in the governor's proposed budget for the Okanogan Community Land Trust? **A:** $8 million at the full requested amount for their housing project in Ferndale. **Q:** What is the theme of Brian Enslow's presentation about the state budget? **A:** Challenging fiscal environment with revenue shortfalls, inflationary pressures, and flood impacts requiring difficult decisions. **Q:** How many major transportation grant programs were created by the infrastructure law? **A:** The bipartisan infrastructure law expanded from 3 major programs to 23 major transportation grant programs. **Q:** What new law enforcement resource became available but hasn't been distributed yet? **A:** House Bill 2015 created a $100 million grant program and local revenue tools that haven't been accessed. **Q:** When are Portal Way grant award announcements expected? **A:** January or February 2026 for the $1 million Department of Transportation grant application. **Q:** What is the minimum age for the fitness clinics being offered? **A:** Ages 14 and over can participate in the free fitness clinics on January 10th and 17th. **Q:** How many years has Arbutus Consulting represented Ferndale? **A:** Nearly a decade, with the 2026 session marking their 10th year of representation. **Q:** What happened to the electric vehicle charging program under the Trump administration? **A:** It was eliminated, though Ferndale's charging stations are funded through state Climate Commitment Act funds. **Q:** What is the deadline for the citywide photo contest? **A:** The end of January 2026, with voting scheduled for February. **Q:** What amount is Ferndale seeking for the youth opioid prevention pilot program? **A:** The specific amount wasn't mentioned, but it would fund additional school resource officers and prevention counselors. **Q:** What is the key challenge with Washington State's liability framework? **A:** Complete waiver of sovereign immunity, joint and several liability, and no caps on non-economic damages create high costs. ---