Though 2009 was a year that some may consider challenging, Bellingham’s future in 2010 looks hopeful, Mayor Dan Pike said in his State of the City address at the Bellingham City Council meeting Monday.

“2009 was an interesting year,” Pike said. “And it was a year where citizens have heard a lot … about the challenges we’ve faced.”

Pike said it is important to look forward in 2010.

He said January 2010 receipts are down 2.5 percent from 2009—the smallest decrease in a year and a half. However, the 2010 budget counts on an increase.

Bellingham’s unemployment rate of approximately 8 percent is better than the national rate of about 10 percent, Pike said.

Dave Finet, executive director for the Opportunity Council, said he was interested in hearing the mayor’s perspective on economic and policy issues. The council is partially funded by the city.

“We know that [the city is] having challenges with their budget, like most local governments are,” Finet said.

Highlights

ELECTRIC CARS: Charging stations are planned to be installed along Interstate 5, the mayor said.

STREETS: The mayor plans to repave streets throughout Bellingham in 2010.

THE WATERFRONT: The mayor plans to continue with waterfront redevelopment in 2010.

 

Community Discussion:

"We all hear about how the country as a whole is starting to improve, but I’d like to hear some specifics about Bellingham.”

-Western Alumn Paul Van Metre, owner and co-founder of Bellingham-based
machine shop Pro CNC, Inc., said his
business was down 20 percent last year.

 

"We have to face reality: we do have budget issues, but with planning, we can deal with those [issues]. ”

-Joan Hoisington, city attorney,
appreciated the address was
upbeat and positive in a difficult time.

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