The Bellingham Parking Commission was created in 1992 as part of the "Visions for Bellingham" framework adopted by the Bellingham City Council. "Visions for Bellingham" serves as a foundation for the current Bellingham Comprehensive Plan.
The Parking Commission was established to help the City develop and implement a coordinated and effective parking system for the City of Bellingham. The Commission is directed by ordinance to establish and maintain on- and off-street parking facilities for public use on a self-supporting basis. The Commission, in coordination with Public Works staff, makes recommendations to City Council on parking-related matters.
In 2005, the Bellingham City Council adopted a Parking Management Strategy for downtown Bellingham. This plan is currently being implemented by Parking Commission and Public Works staff.
The Commission defines parking issues which affect the downtown area as retail, professional, commercial, and residential center. It considers alternatives and recommends solutions to Council. Each solution is based upon an analysis of public opinion, technical data, staff, and other professional recommendations and customer and business input. The Commission enacts Council's directions and decisions into policies and actions which are consistent within the Parking System. It reports progress on projects and issues on a regular basis or when needed by Council. It collects a full range of public opinion on parking related issues prior to Council consideration. It coordinates with downtown Bellingham's citizen and governmental groups on parking related issues.
The Parking Commission meets the fourth Thursday of each month from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. in the Bellingham Library Lecture Room. Meetings are open to the public. Additional meetings may be held as needed.
The Parking Commission consists of 5 community volunteers, appointed by the Mayor and approved by City Council. Current Parking Commissioners represent business and neighborhood interests as well as alternative transportation perspectives. Members serve 4 year terms.
| 2006 Parking Commission Members | Term Expires |
|---|---|
| Larry Farr, Chair | 04/01/2008 |
| Richard Walsh | 04/01/2008 |
| Janet Lightner | 04/01/2007 |
| Susan Horst | 04/01/2008 |
| Phyllis McKee | 04/01/2010 |
