The Bellingham Business Journal

Tim Stewart, director of Planning and Community Development for the City of Bellingham, has accepted an offer from the City of Mercer Island to become its Director of Development Services.

Stewart was appointed as the Bellingham planning director by former Mayor Mark Asmundson in May 2006. The new position in Mercer Island will allow him to work closer to his wife, Dr. Rose Curran, who works in Seattle. The couple also maintains a home there.

“The opportunity to work in Mercer Island will eliminate my weekly commute between Seattle and Bellingham,” Stewart said. “Rose and I are really looking forward to spending more time together. I would like to thank mayors Pike, Douglas and Asmundson for the opportunity to serve this community. It is a great place and I wish Bellingham the very best in the future.”

During his four-year tenure, Stewart led efforts to improve customer service and accountability in the city’s Permit Center, and spearheaded efforts to cut costs when permit revenues sharply declined. He also developed a project management structure within the department to guide staff projects and resources, as well as improve accountability for deadlines.

“Tim has been a great asset to the city and I wish him well in his future endeavors,”  Bellingham Mayor Dan Pike said.

Stewart’s resignation is effective June 20, 2010. Assistant Planning Director Jeff Thomas will be appointed as interim director of the department. Stewart will be paid a salary of $135,000 in Mercer Island. He is currently paid $116,256 in Bellingham.