Goals
(4 total)
- ED-A: Regional Collaboration and Coordination – Continue coordination with local and regional economic development organizations to retain, grow and attract living wage jobs
- ED-B: Supportive and Inclusive Business Environment – Foster and sustain a supportive and inclusive business environment that promotes collaboration and growth
- ED-C: Employment Lands and Supporting Infrastructure – Ensure sufficient employment lands and supporting infrastructure for numerous and diverse employment opportunities
- ED-D: Workforce Support – Encourage programs and practices that support and sustain the Bellingham workforce
Stronger Policy Language (15 policies)
- ED-9: Partner with Whatcom County and the Port of Bellingham to conduct a regional employment study to assess existing and anticipated land, infrastructure and supporting service needs.
- ED-11: Continually review and evaluate the City's permit processes in order to provide timely, cost-effective services and predictable outcomes.
- ED-22: Periodically assess the adequacy of the supply of vacant and redevelopable employment lands in Bellingham and the Urban Growth Area, considering environmental constraints.
- ED-31: Regularly assess the gap between wages and housing availability and incorporate that assessment into planning for housing action.
Aspirational / Monitoring Language (19 policies)
- ED-6: Aid the efforts of business associations to promote economic activities and tourism.
- ED-13: Work with partners to support businesses in developing environmentally-friendly practices.
- ED-17: Support the retention and growth of Bellingham's locally-based or owned businesses.
- ED-32: Recognize the connection between economic development and quality of life factors such as a healthy environment, locally-based food production, arts and culture and recreation.