2023 Year in Review: City of Blaine

As 2023 came to a close, the city of Blaine stands as a testament to resilience, progress and community spirit. 2023 was a year marked by significant achievements by city council as well as across various departments, each contributing to the city’s vibrant development.

2023 marked the end of councilmember Garth Baldwin’s term on the city council and welcomed councilmember-elect Sonia Hurt to the group. The city council acted on several important initiatives in 2023 including text amendments to the Blaine Municipal Code, improving Blaine’s infrastructure, kicking off the downtown revitalization project, reviewing and assessing downtown zoning regulations, passing a balanced budget for 2024, and securing grant funding for the initial design of the Bell Road grade separation project.

The finance department had a stellar year, achieving an unqualified opinion on its 2021 financial statements, a testament to the team’s competence and dedication. Contrary to the anticipated $1 million budget deficit, 2023 is projected to conclude with a slight surplus. The financial success was primarily due to staff transitions and unfilled positions, complemented by higher-than-expected sales tax revenue. The department also played a crucial role in selecting Tyler ERP Pro, a new software system set for implementation in 2024, promising enhanced service delivery and customer engagement.

Public works marked 2023 with the completion of several key projects, including the G Street sewer project, the Marine Park Shoreline Restoration, and the second-floor remodel of city hall. The team efficiently handled over a thousand service requests and nearly 70 requests for new utility services. Additionally, they concluded a study on the city’s conveyance and wastewater treatment systems, emphasizing their commitment to infrastructural excellence.

The police department bid farewell to officer Jon Landis after nearly 28 years of dedicated service and welcomed officer Brandon Wasilchen. The department received $30,000 from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission for officer wellness, which was utilized for a gym, a wellness room and counseling services. The police administrative staff moved to the second floor of city hall to centralize services, and efforts are underway to appoint a new police chief, following chief Tanksley’s election as county sheriff.

Despite significant staff turnover, the Community Development Services Department (CDS) approved numerous housing projects, adding 71 new homes and eight fourplex buildings to Blaine. Major projects included Bens Truck Stop, The Ridge at Harbor Hills 2 and 3 (formerly known as East Maple Ridge) and Sea Smoke Tract D. The CDS also played a pivotal role in community events, assisting with the Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival, Oysterfest, and Holiday Harbor Lights, among others. Their efforts in promoting tourism, such as the radio campaign with Cascade Radio Group and renting advertising space on a digital billboard near the Canadian border significantly bolstered the city’s visibility.

The city clerk and manager’s office had a dynamic year, overseeing the recruitment of the new city manager, Michael Harmon, and facilitating the hiring of 12 city positions including public works director and CDS director. They managed an unprecedented number of public records requests and are now gearing up for the recruitment of a new police chief.

Looking forward

As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that Blaine has not only faced its challenges head-on but has also laid a strong foundation for future growth and prosperity. Each department, through its unique contributions, has played a role in enhancing the city’s infrastructure and overall quality of life.

The council’s prudent financial management, public works’ infrastructural achievements, the police department’s focus on wellness and efficiency, CDS’ fostering of community development and tourism, and the proactive approach of the city clerk and city manager’s office collectively tell a story of a city on an upward trajectory.

Blaine’s journey through 2023 is a narrative of resilience, adaptability and progress. The city’s ability to surpass financial expectations, complete vital infrastructure projects, navigate staffing transitions while maintaining service quality, and foster community spirit and engagement, speaks volumes about its potential and readiness for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

As we look toward 2024, there is a palpable sense of optimism and anticipation. With new projects on the horizon, continued focus on community development, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, Blaine is poised for another year of growth and success.

Blaine’s 2023 is not just a year in review; it’s a chapter in an ongoing story of a community that’s moving forward together.