Bellingham City Council mulls over funds for County-operated severe weather shelter

The Bellingham City Council will vote on an interlocal agreement to fund a severe weather shelter managed by Whatcom County, with a decision expected Monday night. If the agreement passes, Bellingham could contribute up to $100,000 for staffing and operational costs after the county's initial $450,000 budget is exhausted. Last winter, the shelter struggled with funding issues and faced controversy regarding its low temperature threshold of 32 degrees, which has remained unchanged despite community advocacy for a higher limit. The shelter will only operate under specific weather conditions, including temperature and wind chill factors. Historically, the budget for the shelter has reached up to $400,000, with no non-governmental organizations stepping forward to manage it in the past three years.

The total funding prepared for the shelter this winter between the two municipalities amounts to $650,000, with Whatcom County covering any additional costs. This funding is critical as colder weather approaches, emphasizing the need for adequate shelter for vulnerable populations. Bellingham's commitment reflects ongoing efforts to address homelessness and severe weather preparedness in the community.