MEET JESSICA RIENSTRA
Candidate for Whatcom County Council, District 3
Hi, I'm Jessica Rienstra. I'm a nurse practitioner born and raised in rural Whatcom County, and I'm running for County Council in District 3.
Deep Roots in Whatcom County
I was born and raised in rural Whatcom County, with family ties that go back generations. My grandfather came here in the 1940s after serving in World War II, settling on the Everson Goshen Road to build a life rooted in farming, service, and family.
I grew up surrounded by people who worked hard, looked out for their neighbors, and believed in doing their part. Those values continue to guide me today. When I'm not working with patients, I'm spending time with family or tending to my small flock of backyard chickens.
My Journey in Healthcare and Service
For over two decades, I've worked in healthcare — starting as a nursing assistant and working my way through local programs at Whatcom Community College, BTC, and Western. I earned my LPN, RN, BSN, and eventually my nurse practitioner license after graduate work at Gonzaga. This step-by-step pathway, rooted in our community's educational institutions, gave me stability and purpose.
My commitment to our community has taken many forms. I've worked directly with Tribal nations on infectious disease programs that respect cultural needs while delivering results. At the state level, I contributed my on-the-ground experience to help shape public health policies that work for real people. I've helped establish rural health clinics in places where healthcare access was limited, ensuring families don't have to drive hours for basic care.
When our communities faced public health challenges, I led prevention efforts focused on practical solutions. I've also participated in local emergency response efforts, helping connect people with resources during difficult times.
Today, I continue this work as a behavioral health consultant, tackling complex public health issues by strengthening the systems we already have in our communities—because I believe we should reduce barriers and make essential services more accessible for everyone in our district.
My Approach to Leadership
Listen First
Understanding the needs of our community starts with listening to the people who live here.
Show Up Consistently
Leadership means being present in both crisis and calm, working alongside neighbors to build solutions.
Practical Solutions
Focus on achievable, meaningful changes that address our community's most pressing needs.
Community-Centered
Working with people, not over them, to ensure local government truly serves local needs.
My Vision for District 3
This campaign is about real change that makes a difference in people's daily lives across our diverse district. I'm committed to tackling the pressing challenges we face—from rural infrastructure and economic opportunity to healthcare access and affordable housing. Whether you live in Everson, Nooksack, Sumas, Sudden Valley, Geneva, Welcome, Acme, or any of our rural areas, I'm here to ensure your voice is heard and your needs are addressed.
I'm here to do the work—to listen, to advocate, and to build a future where all communities in District 3 have the opportunity to thrive. Taking care of our community isn't about political divisions—it's about having the courage to make bold decisions when they're needed and the wisdom to bring people together around common goals that benefit our entire district.
If you've ever felt like you weren't being heard by your own county—I understand. That's exactly why I'm running.