Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Washington State Republican Party seeks to end the state's vote-by-mail system, led by State Rep. Jim Walsh's initiative requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration. The initiative aims to restore trust in elections and will be discussed in the 2026 Legislative session.
Kaycee Antila, 28, received a 20-month prison sentence for vehicular manslaughter after fatally hitting pedestrian Tyler Ford while driving under the influence in Whatcom County. Antila admitted to consuming several drinks before the May 2022 incident, with her blood alcohol content later found to be twice the legal limit.
Whatcom County celebrates summer with various events this weekend, including the Lynden Farmer’s Day Parade on June 7. Families can enjoy the 2025 Safety Fair and a Community Crafting Day in Ferndale, while music lovers can attend concerts at local venues.
The Seattle Mariners lost to the Baltimore Orioles 4-3, marking their eighth loss in 11 games. Cal Raleigh hit his league-leading 24th home run, but the Orioles quickly responded with back-to-back home runs to secure the win. The Mariners will look to rebound against the Los Angeles Angels tomorrow.
Whatcom County seeks a provider to operate a severe weather shelter in Bellingham, offering up to $550,000 in funding. Interested parties must submit their proposals by June 24, with options to run either a severe weather shelter or a seasonal winter shelter. Last winter, the county had to manage the shelter after no applications were received.
Ferndale Police seek public assistance in locating 18-year-old Ezra Smith, missing since May 24. He was last seen in downtown Bellingham wearing specific clothing and has distinct physical attributes. Authorities urge anyone with information to call 9-1-1.
An emergency drought declaration now affects Whatcom and Skagit Counties in Washington due to low water supplies. The Washington State Department of Ecology expanded the declaration after rapid snowmelt and higher spring temperatures. Drought advisories also remain in effect for the Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett metro areas.
Whatcom County Public Works will host its final water adjudication workshop for residential well users on June 5 at 5:30 pm. The virtual event will feature a water rights consultant who will guide participants through the claim form process and answer questions. Registration is required and limited to 50 households.
The Port of Bellingham Commission terminated Rob Fix as executive director in a 2-1 vote, with commissioners citing the need for new leadership. Bobby Briscoe, the sole dissenting vote, praised Fix for his contributions since 2008. Tiffany DeSimone has been appointed as Interim Executive Director.
Student workers at Western Washington University set a two-day deadline for the university to make progress on union recognition negotiations. If the administration fails to respond adequately, the Operational Student Employees plan to resume their strike on June 9. The university has not yet commented on the union's demands.