BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Ballots for a summer special election in Whatcom County were sent out on July 16.

Included in the ballot are two proposed levies: one for the South Whatcom Fire Authority and one for the Whatcom County Rural Library District.

After Candidate Filing Week this year, eight offices had three or more candidates, which necessitates a primary election to narrow the field down to two before the general election in November.

The cities of Sumas and Blaine are both hosting races for council positions.

Current Port Commissioner Ken Bell is challenged by two hopefuls for the district two role, including small business owner Carly James and Northwest Washington Gender Alliance board member Kaylin Bosley.

Four candidates, including former mayor of Sumas Kyle Christensen, are running against incumbent Tyler Byrd for the district three county council spot. Three fresh faces vie to replace councilmember Todd Donovan, who did not file for reelection for a fourth term.

Voters should receive their ballots by July 22.

Ballots are due in a drop box or must be postmarked by August 5 to count.

For more information, including an online version of the official local voters’ pamphlet, visit the Whatcom County current elections page.