County
Port of Bellingham Commissioner
District 5
- Vote for
- 1
- Candidates
- 2
- Election
- Nov 3, 2026
What this office does: The commissioners govern the Port of Bellingham, the countywide port district that runs Bellingham's airport, shipping terminal, marinas and waterfront property, and set its budget and policies.
A new seat: Whatcom County voters approved expanding the Port Commission from three to five members, and all county voters elect both new commissioners. Of the District 4 and District 5 winners, the one with more votes serves a three-year first term and the other a one-year first term.
Economy & jobs
Chris ElderNo party listed
- Supports investing in working-land industries and salmon habitat
Shawn EnsleyNo party listed
- Supports living-wage jobs and projects with clear purpose
- Supports fishing, marine trades and waterfront businesses
- Supports development that attracts private investment
Roads & infrastructure
Chris ElderNo party listed
- Supports trade, airport opportunities and working waterfronts
Shawn EnsleyNo party listed
- Supports managing the airport, terminals and ferry strategically
Environment & parks
Chris ElderNo party listed
- Supports cleanup of legacy contamination and strict development standards
- Supports protecting farmland and local food systems
Shawn EnsleyNo party listed
No documented position found.
Government & transparency
Chris ElderNo party listed
- Supports port representation for rural east county communities
- Supports long-term planning for waterfront and industrial growth
Shawn EnsleyNo party listed
- Supports port investment across all of Whatcom County
- Pledges transparency and restoring public trust in the Port
Challengers are listed first and incumbents last; otherwise candidates appear in ballot order. The Gist does not rank, rate or endorse candidates. Only positions backed by a cited source are shown; 4 issues covered in this race.