Represents: 6th Ward
Term: Jan 2010 - Dec 2013
Elected in 2009 to the Bellingham City Council, Michael Lilliquist Chairs the Council's Finance & Personnel Committee and is a member of the Lake Whatcom Reservoir and Natural Resources Committee; Planning & Community Development Committee; and the Waterfront and Downtown Development Committee. He is a member of the Firefighter’s Pension Board; Emergency & Ambulance Advisory Board; County Open Space Committee; and the Tourism Commission, Allocation Sub-Committee. He is also City Council Liaison to Sustainable Connections and to the Bellingham School District.
With a background in scientific research, clinical psychology and paralegal studies, Michael also brings his personal experience as an active citizen and from years of volunteer work with community groups, local non-profit organizations, and from service on city boards and commissions. He was first drawn to local government by the challenge we face to preserve our quality of life by balancing our man-made and natural environments in a way that works in the long run. Protecting and restoring the Lake Whatcom reservoir is a prime example, where our roads and houses threaten the quality of our drinking water and the health of the lake.
In addition to securing our drinking water, Michael's priorities include carefully planning for change within the downtown, the waterfront district, and our neighborhoods in a way that respects local character and avoids sprawling development. He sees the city government as a key player in promoting local prosperity, through cooperative activities as well as by maintaining a focus on quality government services that enhance Bellingham's livability. Local jobs and housing affordability are other key issues Michael is working on.
A fifth generation Washingtonian, Michael enjoys getting out into nature by hiking, biking and snowboarding, as well as spending time with his daughter, Rebecca, and their two dogs, Skagit and Fisher.
1134 Finnegan Way, #303
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 920-1583
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Michael Lilliquist
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