Protecting Whatcom’s Future

Tim Chartier for Port Commissioner, 4th District

From firefighter to commercial fisherman, Tim Chartier understands what it takes to protect the people, industries, and natural resources that keep Whatcom County strong.

Firefighter. Fisherman. Family Man.

Tim Chartier brings over 25 years of public service experience to his campaign for City of Bellingham Port Commissioner. He began his career with the City of Baltimore Fire Department and currently serves as a Firefighter/EMT with the City of Lynden Fire Department, where he has spent decades protecting lives, managing emergencies, and working under pressure. He has also served as a Company Officer and Instructor with the Whatcom County Fire Recruit Academy, helping train the next generation of firefighters and emergency responders.

Tim holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, giving him a strong understanding of the industries that drive our regional economy, including agriculture and natural resources. In 2004, he received a Certificate of Merit from the USDA for exceptional efforts and innovative ideas that improved the maintenance of plants and facilities within the PGQO program.

Since 2018, Tim has also worked as an active commercial fisherman providing firsthand insight into the needs of our working waterfront, maritime economy, and sustainable resource management. His experience on the water has strengthened his understanding of the challenges facing local fishermen, small businesses, and the industries that depend on a strong and responsible port system.

In addition to his professional experience, Tim has remained deeply involved in community and labor leadership. He currently serves as Secretary of the Whatcom Commercial Fishing Association, Union President for L106 Lynden and Executive board for L106, and President of the Bellingham/Whatcom County Firefighters Benevolent Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports community members, firefighters, and local students through assistance programs and scholarships.

Tim is committed to practical, accountable leadership that supports economic growth, strengthens local industry, and ensures the Port operates responsibly for the benefit of the entire community.

Tim Chartier lives in Lynden with his wife, who has dedicated the past 19 years of her career to public service, and their five teenagers. As a family, they value time together, especially taking road trip vacations down the coast.

Pension-Supported Jobs

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Expand Air Service

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Revitalize Forestry Through Export

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Pension-Supported Jobs - Expand Air Service - Revitalize Forestry Through Export -

Initiatives

Upgrade our waterfront to build a fully functioning, modern maritime port that creates high-wage, pension-supported jobs. By investing in crane and rail infrastructure, we will boost local exports and attract new manufacturing and industry, providing a reliable economic engine for our community.

01
Modernize the Shipping Terminal and Create Family-Wage Jobs

02
Expand Air Service and Grow the International Airport Economy

Grow our international airport into a premier regional hub by increasing direct flights and improving affordability. By moving beyond limited "milk run" connections, we can better capture Canadian travel traffic, driving tourism and creating new local jobs.

03
Revitalize the Timber and Maritime Industries to Lower Costs

Rebuild a self-sufficient local economy by reinvesting in our core natural resource industries.

Support struggling timber families, reduce the threat of wildfires through proactive maintenance, and help lower high lumber costs for our own backyard.

Support responsible environmental stewardship that protects our forests, waterways, fisheries, farmland, and shorelines while preserving the industries and communities that rely on them. By investing in sustainable resource management and addressing long-term environmental challenges, we can protect Whatcom County’s natural beauty, local economy, and way of life for future generations.

04
Protect Our Environment While Strengthening Whatcom County’s Natural Resources

Endorsements

  • WFCA

    Whatcom Commercial Fisherman’s Association

  • Bellingham / Whatcom County Fire Fighters IAFF Local #106

  • "One of the hardest working young men I've ever met. Honest, reliable, knowledgeable and diplomatic."

    Carol L. Susie-Hoffman Sanderson

  • Gerald Sanderson

    Retired School Administrator and Former Commercial Fisherman.

  • “One true honest candidate.”

    Damon Winters

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Press

May 8, 2026

May 8, 2026