Elected Experience: Michael served as Whatcom County Democratic Party Precinct Committee Officer from 2007-2009.
Other Professional Experience: Instructional Designer and faculty member for graduate programs in Environmental Studies and Cultural Sustainability. Undergraduate Anthropology instructor for incarcerated student prison education program. Previously, an eLearning Director at Whatcom Community College and Cultural Documentation Coordinator at Northwest Indian College.
Education: Ph.D in Anthropology from the University of British Columbia. M.A. in Anthropology and B.A. in Environmental Studies from Western Washington University.
Community Service: Whatcom County Portage Bay Shellfish Protection District Advisory Committee and Kulshan Community Land Trust Board of Trustees.
Statement: Thank you for our big primary win, we earned 59.3% of the vote! We all know that Whatcom County is a great place to live, but it is becoming a hard place to afford. I am running for Commissioner because I believe the Port should take a more innovative and proactive approach to countywide economic development. To accomplish this, the Port must be an accountable and responsive steward of the public good. I will bring a fresh perspective to the Port that is focused on protecting our quality of life and addressing growing income inequality. As Port Commissioner I will fight for family wage jobs, smart growth, and environmental sustainability – for all of Whatcom County.
I am endorsed by 14 labor unions, including Bellingham/Whatcom Firefighters. Additionally, I am endorsed by Whatcom Democrats, Washington Conservation Voters and Whatcom Commercial Fishermen’s Association. On Commission, I will work to see the Waterfront Development reflect our community values, including immediate public access and diverse employment opportunities. I will advocate for our marine trades industries, agriculture, clean energy, and restoration of our waterways. Your Port should work for you, and I will work to make that happen. Your Port, Our Future!