Overview

PLEASE NOTE:  The County Executive's Office is currently closed to the public, but staff are here and working and are responding to phones and email.  Our main line is 360 778 5200.  

The Executive provides for an accountable and responsive county government by ensuring efficient, effective and economical administration in accordance with the County Charter, the Washington State Constitution and other applicable federal, state and local laws, as well as county policy.

The County Executive is elected to a non-partisan, 4-year term. The powers of the Executive are set out in the Whatcom County Charter, Article 3, the Executive Branch: 
  

• Appoints members to boards and commissions. Click the following link to view Current Vacancies
• Enforces all ordinances and state statutes within the county
• Estimates quarterly and annual revenues; recommends annual budget to County Council; monitors expenses to assure budget compliance.
• Represents Whatcom County at local, regional, state and federal levels.
• Responds to citizen concerns, complaints and requests.
• Supervises all administrative offices and executive departments.
• Administers the Economic Development Investment Program.

About Satpal Singh Sidhu

Clear Goals For A Better Future

The Executive's goals are to lead Whatcom County to improve the vitality of our community and the health of our families; and to deliver effective "Customer Service" oriented government.

Political History

• Served five years as a member of the Whatcom County Council
• Currently serving first term as Whatcom County Executive.

Professional Background

Satpal's past professional experience includes work as an engineer, project manager, business executive, educator and small business owner. He was recognized by two Washington State governors for his achievements in workforce development as Dean of Engineering & Trades at Bellingham Technical College.

He is a Fulbright Scholar and holds a BS in Electrical Engineering and a MBA.
Satpal has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to such organizations as the NW Agricultural Business Center, Bellingham Police Chief Diversity Committee, St. Joseph’s Hospital Ethics Committee and Whatcom Counseling & Psychiatric Clinic. He is also a founding member of the Meridian Public Schools Foundation and currently serves on the board of the Whatcom Community College Foundation.

Personal History

Satpal grew up in India and spent some time working in Canada before moving to Whatcom County in 1988. He and his wife Mundir, married for 40 years, have lived in Lynden for 30 years. They have three grown sons who attended Meridian schools.