Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Bellingham City Council will vote Monday on funding a county-operated severe weather shelter for winter. The agreement could allocate up to $100,000 for staffing and operational costs if approved. Last winter, funding issues and a low temperature threshold hindered shelter operations.
National Public Lands Day on Saturday allows free entrance to all national parks, including North Cascades National Park. No special events are planned at North Cascades, but a volunteer opportunity will take place at Mount Rainier National Park. The next fee-free day is October 10.
The City of Bellingham will install a new traffic signal at the busy intersection of 12th Street, Mill Avenue, and Finnegan Way, starting Monday, September 29. This intersection currently accommodates over 10,000 vehicles daily, a number expected to rise with local development. Construction will involve one-lane closures and is set to continue through mid-October.
Skagit County will hold a public meeting to discuss the future of its Meals on Wheels program, which provides meals to seniors. The county faces rising costs, projected to exceed $1.7 million in 2026, while seeking a new non-profit operator for the service.
Boundary Bay Brewery in Bellingham, WA, seeks community assistance after a blue sign reading "Bellingham's Backyard" was stolen from their property. The brewery is set to close on September 30 after 30 years in business due to the expiration of its lease. Black Raven Brewery will continue producing some of its ales following its closure.
Sinclair Broadcast Group resumes airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! on its ABC affiliates after a blackout due to Kimmel's comments following Charlie Kirk's death. The network demanded an apology from Kimmel and a donation to Turning Point USA. Nexstar has yet to decide on airing the show.
Washington co-leads a 16-state lawsuit against the Trump administration over proposed funding cuts to sexual health education programs. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services plans to withdraw funding, citing concerns over "radical gender ideology," despite state laws mandating inclusive education. The states seek a court injunction to prevent the cancellation of these critical grants.
Washington lawmakers increased the Discover Pass price from $30 to $45, marking the first hike since 2011. The new law allows Lifetime Veterans’ Disability Pass holders to use their pass as an equivalent but removes fee waivers for veterans making reservations.
The Seattle Seahawks secured a thrilling 23-20 victory over the Arizona Cardinals with a last-second 52-yard field goal by Jason Myers. Quarterback Sam Darnold threw for 242 yards and a touchdown, while the Seahawks' defense contributed with six sacks and two interceptions. Seattle improves to 3-1 for the season and prepares for a matchup against the undefeated Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Washington state leaders respond to a $900 million drop in projected tax revenue over the next four years. The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council attributes the decline to weaker retail sales, reduced construction activity, and lower real estate tax returns. Governor Bob Ferguson labeled the update as “disappointing, but not surprising.”