Ben Elenbaas is currently serving his first term on the Whatcom County Council, representing Council District 5. His term began January 2020 and expires January 2024.
 
 In 2023, Councilmember Elenbaas is chair of the Planning and Development Committee and a member of the Natural Resources Committee. In addition, he represents the County Council on several community boards and committees, including the Bellingham International Airport Advisory Committee, Drayton Harbor and Portage Bay Shellfish Protection Districts Advisory Committees, Flood Control Zone District Advisory Committee, Local Emergency Planning Committee, and Public Defense Advisory Committee.