Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A "No Kings" rally is set for Saturday in Bellingham, alongside events in other Whatcom County locations. The movement, protesting the Trump Administration, previously attracted thousands in June, with similar rallies planned nationwide.
Federal layoffs at the Department of Education will not affect Washington's special education services, according to state officials. Washington State Superintendent Christ Reykdal confirmed that the $275 million in annual federal funding for special education remains secure but urged Congress to ensure these funds are not at risk.
A Whatcom County judge confirmed that Ferndale City Council candidate Steven Potvin has an invalid voter registration due to misrepresentation of his address. Potvin, who stays overnight at his karate studio, claimed it as his residence, but the court upheld the Canvassing Board's ruling that his true address lies outside city limits. Despite this ruling, Potvin will remain on the ballot for the upcoming election.
WSDOT closed the final 2.7 miles of SR 542, ending access to Artist Point for the winter season. The closure follows the first significant snowfall in the North Cascades, with Mount Baker forecasted to receive up to 12 inches of snow. Road access will likely not resume until June, depending on weather conditions.
Bloedel Donovan Park in Bellingham reopened its upgraded playground after nearly two months of construction. The new facility features over 40 play elements, including wheelchair-accessible equipment. Parks and Recreation plans to complete final touches in the coming weeks.
The Seattle Mariners continue their MLB playoff journey, prompting local venues in Bellingham to host watch parties. Popular spots include The Score in Ferndale and The Royal in Bellingham, both offering unique atmospheres for fans. Events are scheduled around game times, enhancing community engagement.
Bellingham's retail vacancy rate rose to 5.3% in the third quarter of 2025, marking an increase of 0.8%. This uptick stems from significant store closures in Sunset Square and Bellis Fair, although average leasing prices climbed to $20.48 per square foot.
A Border Patrol agent sustained minor injuries in a car crash during a pursuit in north Whatcom County on Wednesday morning. The collision occurred at a 4-way stop, involving an uninvolved third-party vehicle, leading to both drivers being transported to a medical center. An investigation by the Washington State Patrol is ongoing.
The Great Washington Shakeout earthquake and tsunami drill occurs at 10:16 a.m. on October 16, with participation expected from over a million residents statewide. Emergency management officials urge people to practice safety measures, including dropping, covering, and holding on. The drill aims to prepare communities for potential earthquakes from the nearby Cascadia Subduction Zone.
South Whatcom Fire Authority Fire Chief Mitch Nolze has served the community for nearly two decades, focusing on resource allocation and emergency services. He emphasizes supporting his team to ensure optimal service delivery, with three-quarters of their calls related to emergency medical services.