Whatcom County Council

The Whatcom County Council's first meeting of 2026 stretched over five hours and addressed some of the most pressing issues facing the county. The evening was dominated by devastating flood testimony from Sumas, Everson, and surrounding communities, passionate debate over immigration enforcement policies, and the routine but critical work of filling advisory positions and approving contracts. The council passed 5-2 a resolution affirming the dignity and civil rights of all residents regardless of immigration status, following extensive amendments and heated debate. The resolution encourages local law enforcement to refrain from coordinating with federal immigration agencies and condemns immigration arrests on county property. Council members Elenbaas and Stremler opposed the measure. Nearly two dozen flood victims addressed the council, sharing harrowing accounts of losing their homes multiple times in just five years. Residents of Sumas described watching their life's work float away in their living rooms, businesses shuttering, and children developing PTSD from repeated flooding. They demanded immediate action rather than more studies, with several speakers noting this was the fourth flood in five years for some areas. The council approved all consent agenda items 7-0, including collective bargaining agreements with the Deputy Sheriff's Guild and Teamsters, various contracts totaling over $1 million, and amendments to existing agreements. They also made numerous appointments to advisory committees, though they held the Public Health Advisory Board appointments for further review to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. Executive Sidhu opened the meeting by welcoming new council members and addressing the recent flooding crisis, highlighting both short-term and long-term solutions under discussion with federal and state partners. He emphasized the need for streamlined permitting and funding to address what he called a $200-300 million infrastructure challenge. The meeting concluded after midnight with council members expressing the weight of the emotional testimony they had heard, particularly regarding both flooding and immigration enforcement impacts on community members.