JACKIE DEXTER for Whatcom County Council District 5
Jackie Dexter
I am a mother, wife, scientist, and farmer of both land and sea. My husband and I have called Whatcom County our home for the last 18 years. In 2007 I obtained my Bachelor of Science in biology from Western Washington University and in 2015 I received my Fisheries and Aquaculture Certificate from Bellingham Technical College.
We decided to raise our children in the Blaine community and moved here in 2011 because of its affordability, small town charm, and proximity to the water.
I currently work for the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company Farm. There I honed my aquaculture skills so I could take it to the next level and am almost ready to submit permits for my own kelp and mussel farm.
As a small business owner and a working mother, I understand the hardships that many of us face. Once I began developing my seaweed/shellfish business, I found the permitting process extremely difficult and not supportive of innovative, sustainable small businesses. Permitting processes are lengthy, costly, and never a guarantee of approval.
As I dug deeper, I found many societal issues affecting us on the local level and thought I could make real changes happen. I felt it was time to fully commit to the community and stepping up to run for County Council was the answer.
My top priorities are 1. supporting more economic growth, especially in sustainable industries; 2. supporting working families with affordable housing, advocating for pre-K programs (like ECAAP/Head Start), affordable and available childcare, and providing internet for everyone; 3. and to support our Indigenous Tribes.
Jackie Dexter
Candidate, County Council District 5
peopleforjackiedexter.com | 3603058390
I met you on Lummi island. You have my vote. I like your platform and logical approach to politics. The kelp pickles were great.