Historic firsts for Bellingham City Council as it reconvenes for the new year

BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Some historic firsts for the Bellingham City Council as it convened for the first time in the new year.

Skip Williams and Kristina Michele Martens were sworn in as the first Black representatives to ever serve on the council.

“I feel like this is the greatest privilege I could ever have achieved,” said Williams. “Serving the community members of our city.”

Martens says she, too, is thrilled to serve.

“I’m just hoping to really be able to bridge some gaps and build community together,” said Martens. “So, thank you for this honor.”

Williams represents Ward 4 while Michele Martens holds the At-Large position.

Municipal Judge Debra Lev also swore in Michael Lilliquist, who won re-election in Ward 6, and former At-Large representative Hollie Huthman who won election to the Ward 2 position.