City of Bellingham addresses 2026 budget, announces impending layoffs and potential sales tax

The City of Bellingham plans to lay off 12 employees and eliminate 40 positions in response to a projected $10 million deficit in its 2026 budget. Mayor Kim Lund presented the preliminary budget to the city council, highlighting that most of the eliminated positions are already vacant. The proposed budget includes a new sales tax, expected to generate nearly $4 million for public safety services, but Lund clarified that it would not expand the police force. Instead, the focus will be on maintaining current public safety levels and improving alternative response systems. Budget reductions will impact nearly all city departments, leading to reduced library hours, parks maintenance, and walk-in services.

Lund's memo to the city council outlined these necessary cuts to manage the financial shortfall. The city council plans to hold a public hearing on the budget next Monday at 7 p. m. Residents can find further details on the City of Bellingham's website.