Whatcom County approves lease for severe weather shelter

Whatcom County's Council approved a lease for a severe winter weather shelter at 925 N Forest St. during its regular meeting on Tuesday night. The lease will officially start on Nov. 1, but the shelter will commence operations on Nov. 15, accommodating up to 60 guests per night.

Opening will depend on forecasted temperatures, adhering to existing guidelines despite calls for a higher threshold last winter. The County will notify the community 48 hours in advance of the shelter's opening. Hiring efforts are underway for on-call shelter attendants, including lead roles, as the winter season approaches. Local advocates emphasize the importance of adequate shelter during severe weather, highlighting community needs. This shelter operates in a region that experiences severe winter conditions, making it critical for vulnerable populations.

The decision reflects ongoing efforts to address homelessness and ensure safety during extreme weather events.