Community and Economic Development Committee
The Community and Economic Development Committee met to review and approve three significant budget proposals totaling over $5 million in tourism promotion and housing programs. Chair Jace Cotton led the committee through unanimous approval of the Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism's 2025 Tourism Promotion Area budget of $1.48 million and the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee's $2.7 million budget recommendations. The committee also received an informational presentation on the city's housing accomplishments for the 2023-2024 program year, which demonstrated significant progress toward affordable housing goals with nearly $15 million in expenditures across federal and local funding sources. Committee Member Hollie Huthman was excused, with Council Member Edwin "Skip" Williams serving as substitute. The meeting highlighted the economic impact of tourism, with over $750 million in visitor spending in Whatcom County in 2023, representing a 9% increase and the second-highest growth rate in the state. The housing report showed the city has exceeded its production goals, completing 693 units toward a 600-unit target, though federal funding uncertainty remains a concern. All three agenda items moved forward with unanimous committee approval, demonstrating strong support for both tourism promotion and affordable housing initiatives.
**AB 24329 - Tourism Promotion Area Budget:** Approved unanimously (3-0) to recommend the $1.48 million 2025 Tourism Promotion Area budget. The budget supports Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism's marketing and promotional activities, with funding derived from a $3 per room night charge on lodging businesses with 40+ rooms. The approval aligns with state law requirements for annual budget approval by the legislative authority. **AB 24330 - Lodging Tax Advisory Committee Budget:** Approved unanimously (3-0) to recommend the $2.7 million LTAC budget for 2025. The budget includes $704,800 …
**Tourism Budgets:** Both tourism budgets advance to full City Council for final approval at the evening meeting on November 18, 2024. **Lodging Tax Signature Events:** LTAC will make recommendations on the new signature event next week, with approximately eight applications received for the $100,000 funding opportunity. **Downtown Activation Grants:** Second round launches with $250,000 available and over $1 million in interest from 26 applications. **Housing Levy Modifications:** Samya Lutz…