A New Voice for the Everyman: Citizen Reporting on the Whatcom County Charter Commission

By Greg Thames

In Whatcom County, where community spirit and engagement shape our lives, understanding our government’s inner workings isn’t just important—it’s vital. This is especially true for the Whatcom County Charter Commission, a group whose decisions, made once every ten years, have the power to reshape the direction of our county government. Yet, many residents are too busy navigating their daily lives to dive into the details. That’s where I come in.

I’m thrilled to introduce myself as a new citizen reporter for Bellingham Metro News. My goal is simple: to make the complex work of the Charter Commission accessible, engaging, and meaningful for every working-class citizen in Whatcom County. We, the people, are responsible for the leaders we elect and the choices they make, and my job is to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to hold them accountable.

Since moving to Whatcom County twenty five years ago, I’ve immersed myself in local politics over the past 5 years. This passion for civic engagement comes from a deeply rooted belief that democracy thrives when people stay informed and involved. But my enthusiasm isn’t just about politics—it’s about people. I want to bridge the gap between the everyday lives of citizens and the decisions being made on their behalf.

I bring with me a background in Mass Communications and Photojournalism from Jackson State University. Reporting isn’t just a job for me; it’s my craft. Through this column, I’ll combine my education and passion to deliver stories that cut through jargon and get to the heart of the matter. My writing will reflect the language of the water cooler, not the ivory tower—making sure every reader feels included and empowered to engage.

This is a crucial time for our community. The Charter Commission is laying the groundwork for changes that we, as citizens, will vote on next year. These decisions could shape how our government operates and impacts our lives for the next decade. My mission is to ensure you know what’s happening, why it matters, and how it could affect you and your family. Together, we can build a more informed and active electorate.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope to earn your trust and your attention as we explore these important issues together. Let’s make democracy work for everyone.