Meet Barry

Prior to serving on the Council, Mr. Buchanan was Chairman of the Lettered Streets Neighborhood Association from 2002-2006, and served as a Mayoral Neighborhood Advisory Commission Representative, and as the Chairman of the Whatcom County Democrats from 2001-2007.

Council member Buchanan is a native of Bellingham with a passion about this community and its future. Barry brings experience and a skill set in leadership and communication; working with, and bringing together diverse groups and opinions; and developing and implementing visions and goals.

During his time as Chair of the Lettered Streets Neighborhood Association, Council member Buchanan formed a Planning and Growth Management committee. This committee focused on polling residents in the Lettered Streets Neighborhood to prioritize where we should focus infill (i.e. Old Town Urban Village) and where we should protect the established single family areas.

Barry's professional career has focused on management, leadership, and communication. He currently serves as Vice President of Bianchi-Group Industrial Training, and General Manager for Doyle Training Co.

Additionally, he has had a long musical career. He has recorded 3 albums, co-founded the Bellingham High School Alumni Band, and is a choir and Instrumental Ensemble director for Trinity Lutheran Church in Bellingham.

Barry grew up in the Columbia Neighborhood and married his Bellingham High School sweetheart Judy in 1973. They have three grown children. Barry is a veteran of the United States Navy.