The Bellingham City Council appointed Don Gischer from a field of nine candidates to fill the vacant Ward 4 seat at a special meeting on April 4. The position was left vacant by the death of Joan Beardsley on March 12.
Gischer, a 38-year resident of the city, nine-year resident of the Alabama Hill neighborhood and retired mill worker, served on the Bellingham City Council from 1984 to 1996, representing the 1st Ward.
In his application materials and presentation to Council on April 4, Gischer said he would put his past experience and skills to work helping the city through the challenges and opportunities it is facing this year. He referenced his 12 years serving on the Bellingham City Council and his experience working with water quality, economic development, neighborhood and environmental issues.
“Decisions and actions needed to resolve or improve these issues require
thoughtful, sound and deliberate decision making,” he said in his letter of
interest. “I can provide that thoughtful, sound and deliberate decision
making.”
“I also have the desire, the enthusiasm and the commitment to renew my
service to the Council and to the city,” he said.
Gischer’s appointment is interim. The Ward 4 position will be up for election in the November 2007 general election. Gischer will serve until the person elected in the general election takes office on November 27, which is the date the election results are expected to be certified.
On April 4 the Bellingham City Council also adopted a resolution honoring Joan Beardsley for her commitment to public service and her dedication to the citizens and City of Bellingham.
