Whatcom County Executive

The Whatcom County Executive is the head of the executive branch of Whatcom County, Washington. The position is subject to four-year terms (with a term limit of 3) and is a nonpartisan office.

History
County voters approved the adoption of a home-rule charter for Whatcom County on November 7, 1978, creating the position of a seven-member county council. The position of county executive was created in 1996. Prior to the adoption, the county government was led by three commissioners elected at-large.

Duties
The Executive submits legislation to the Whatcom County Council for consideration. The Executive has veto power over ordinances passed by the council. The Council requires a vote of five of the seven council members to override the Executive's veto.