Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Whatcom County has recently addressed the dismissal of its health department director, Erika Lautenbach, though no specific reasons have been provided. Lautenbach expressed surprise at her termination, citing concerns about the county executive's actions. The county is in the process of appointing an interim director while the leadership transition is discussed in upcoming meetings.
The article highlights significant community events in Bellingham, including the celebration of Women’s History Month by the Teen Advisory Board at the local library and the opening of a new YWCA shelter for mothers and young children. It also announces upcoming events related to salmon conservation and a public hearing regarding middle housing expansion, showcasing the city's commitment to environmental and social issues. Overall, the article serves as an informative roundup of local initiatives and celebrations.
The article discusses the upcoming public comment period for the Treoil Industries cleanup site in Ferndale, WA, which will begin on March 24 and last until April 22. This site has been on the Washington State Department of Ecology's Contaminated Site List due to hazardous spills and has undergone previous cleanup efforts costing over $4.3 million. Residents are encouraged to review the documents and provide feedback on the proposed third cleanup plan.
The article reports on a forecast of heavy rain and moderate winds expected in Bellingham over the weekend, as issued by the National Weather Service. It highlights the potential for rising river levels due to snowmelt but reassures that local rivers are not at flood risk. Additionally, the article covers a public comment period regarding the cleanup of a contaminated site in Ferndale.
Environmental projects aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of commercial fishing in Bellingham are currently in limbo due to frozen grants from the EPA. The Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County reports that five engine replacement projects have been suspended, leaving local fishers uncertain about future upgrades. The situation highlights the broader impact of funding cuts on fishing communities from Alaska to Maine.
Hundreds of Latino students from various school districts gathered at Western Washington University for the Latinos in Action Youth Leadership Conference. The event aimed to empower Latino youth, featuring performances and art showcases, while keynote speaker Xiye Bastida addressed attendees via Zoom after being denied entry to the U.S. Despite the setback, the conference highlighted the significance of community engagement and cultural expression among Latino youth.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has announced a new spring sailing schedule for the Anacortes and San Juan ferries, effective March 23, 2025. This update comes after a decade of outdated schedules, resulting in improved on-time performance from 68% to 91%. The new schedule will remain in effect until June 14, and full details are available on the WSDOT website.
Bellingham Public Schools is seeking community input on proposed budget cuts to address a $15 million deficit. The district is considering revising the school calendar and introducing fees for certain extracurricular activities. Superintendent Greg Baker emphasizes the importance of protecting classroom resources while managing financial constraints.
Bellingham Public Schools is soliciting community feedback on proposed changes to the school calendar and budget aimed at addressing a projected $15 million deficit. Superintendent Greg Baker has suggested reducing the academic year to 179 days and implementing optional fees for extracurricular activities. Community input is welcomed until March 28, 2025, with further details available on the district's website.
A 28-year-old inmate at Whatcom County Jail died on March 20 after suffering a medical episode, marking the second death of a person in custody at the facility this year. The incident is under investigation by the Bellingham Police Department, with the cause of death pending toxicology results. The sheriff expressed the emotional weight of the loss, emphasizing the responsibility of caring for those in custody.