Bellingham Creates New Position to Help Businesses

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — The City of Bellingham has created a new position aimed at helping businesses, developers and entrepreneurs navigate city processes and identify opportunities for investment, funding and growth.

Mayor Kim Lund appointed longtime city planning staffer Darby Galligan as Bellingham’s first Urban Transformation Strategist. Galligan began the new role Aug. 14.

The position was a key commitment in Lund’s June 15 Executive Order on Advancing Economic Opportunity. The city describes the role as a concierge-style resource intended to reduce hurdles to entrepreneurship, business expansion and job creation.

“Economic vitality contributes directly to community stability, affordability, and overall quality of life. As our new Urban Transformation Strategist, Darby will work across departments, cut through complexity, and help turn business ideas into real economic opportunities.”

Kim Lund, Bellingham Mayor

New role focuses on business support

Lund said Galligan will work with businesses, developers, investors, artists and creative partners as they navigate city processes. Her work will include identifying incentives and funding opportunities and helping connect projects with the appropriate city departments.

The position also will focus on projects involving multiple city departments and outside organizations, with an emphasis on coordinating public and private investment and addressing barriers to economic development.

The city plans for Galligan to represent the city in regional economic development efforts, including work connected to the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.

Galligan has worked for the city’s Planning and Community Development Department for years and has experience with permitting systems, development regulations, placemaking, community engagement and strategic planning.

“I’ve spent my career helping projects move from idea to reality, and I know having the City’s support and guidance can make a big difference. I’m excited to be that resource for Bellingham’s business community.”

Darby Galligan, Urban Transformation Strategist

Local planning experience

Like many in Bellingham, Galligan is a Western Washington University graduate and previously served as a city liaison to local business associations.

Her work also included improving coordination between city departments and supporting downtown and waterfront revitalization projects, as well as urban village planning.

“Darby is already an incredible advocate for our business community,” Lund said. “She knows how to get things done, and that’s just what we need right now.”

The new position follows several other city initiatives focused on economic and community development, including efforts to support downtown businesses and address housing affordability and homeownership.

B&O tax break approved for new downtown businesses

The city’s efforts also include a new business tax incentive approved by the Bellingham City Council July 27.

Under the change, new businesses operating in Bellingham’s downtown core can receive a seven-year B&O tax break. The city said the measure is intended to reduce startup costs and help fill vacant downtown commercial spaces.

Bellingham has also launched a Business Resources Hub on the city website.

The online resource brings together information for current and prospective business owners, including local population and employment data, permit activity, zoning and permit requirements, business licenses and B&O taxes.

The hub also includes information about community organizations that provide business support and networking opportunities, along with a step-by-step guide for people opening their first business in Bellingham.

Businesses and entrepreneurs seeking help navigating city processes can contact the city at business@cob.org or 360-778-8012.

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