Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Port of Bellingham has completed dredging the I&J Waterway, a significant step in the environmental cleanup of Bellingham Bay. Remaining tasks include installing new piles and constructing a dock, with project completion expected by February 2026. Residents should prepare for noise disruptions during work hours.
Washington state officials are addressing the food stamp status of thousands of residents in Whatcom County. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it will partially fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), but details on the amount of assistance remain unclear.
Local breweries in Whatcom County excelled at the 2025 Washington Beer Awards, with Garden Path Fermentation winning six medals, including two Golds. Other notable winners included Kulshan Brewing and North Fork Brewery, each receiving multiple awards. The event highlighted the region's thriving craft beer scene.
Washington's WA Cares Fund investment proposition is poised for approval, allowing state funds to be invested in the stock market. If passed, this measure could significantly impact the state's financial landscape and future funding for care services.
The Swinomish Tribe reached a settlement with BNSF Railway, resolving a trespass dispute that began in 2015. Under the new agreement, BNSF may transport one train carrying crude oil daily across the reservation, reducing potential environmental risks.
The Seattle Seahawks traded for wide receiver Rashid Shaheed from the New Orleans Saints, giving up fourth and sixth round picks in 2026. Shaheed, who has recorded 44 catches for 499 yards this season, reunites with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. The Seahawks prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals, fresh off a win against the Dallas Cowboys.
Washington state filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education, challenging recent changes to student loan relief rules. The Attorney General's Office reported that over 23,000 borrowers in Washington had $1.6 million in loans forgiven under the previous program over the past four years.
Bellingham city officials may extend a suspended ordinance eliminating minimum parking requirements to promote affordable housing development. Community members expressed mixed views during a public hearing, with some praising the initiative while others highlighted concerns for residential neighborhoods. The city council plans to continue discussions on the ordinance's extension in upcoming meetings.
A winter weather advisory has been issued for Whatcom and Skagit counties, effective Wednesday at 4 p.m. and lasting through Friday morning. Forecasters predict 4 to 10 inches of snow along the North Cascades Highway, prompting officials to urge caution among drivers.
Whatcom County Health and Community Services reopened beaches north of Sandy Point after a decline in paralytic shellfish poisoning levels. Officials had closed these beaches in early September due to high PSP levels found during routine testing. Harvesters must consult state closure maps before harvesting shellfish.