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Minimum wage in Bellingham increases 1 on May 1

Bellingham, WALocal News

Bellingham's minimum wage will rise to $18. 66 per hour on May 1, a dollar increase that positions it significantly above Washington state's minimum wage. This adjustment stems from a 2023 initiative approved by voters, allowing the city to set its wage standards independently. Bellingham and Everett stand out as the only cities outside King County to implement such a wage increase. Starting in 2026, the city plans to increase its minimum wage by $2 above the statewide minimum each year on January 1.

This wage increase aims to address the growing cost of living and enhance workers' financial stability. Local advocates believe this change could lead to better living conditions for low-income residents. The initiative may also inspire similar actions in other cities, reflecting a shift toward prioritizing worker compensation. As the labor market evolves, Bellingham's decision could serve as a model for equitable wage practices statewide.

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Bellingham, WASports

Rivas hits walk-off homer in 13th to give streaking Mariners a 4-2 win over Cardinals

Leo Rivas hit a two-run homer in the 13th inning, leading the Seattle Mariners to a 4-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on September 10. The win marked Seattle's fifth consecutive victory and completed a three-game sweep, keeping them within one game of Houston in the AL West. Thomas Saggese's four hits for the Cardinals included an RBI single that briefly gave St. Louis the lead in the 11th inning.

Bellingham, WALocal News

New report sheds light on who uses Whatcom County supportive housing programs

An independent evaluation reveals that 88% of participants in Whatcom County's Permanent Supportive Housing programs were previously chronically homeless or institutionalized. The report highlights a significant prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders among users, emphasizing the need for improved treatment accessibility.

Bellingham, WALocal News

Dept. of Health issues recreational shellfish harvesting closure in Samish Bay

The Washington Department of Health closed recreational shellfish harvesting in Samish Bay due to high levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins. This closure also extends to butter and varnish clams on several nearby islands, impacting most coastal areas in the state. Harvesters are urged to consult the state's shellfish safety map for updates.