Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A contractor at Whatcom County Jail, Dylan Ramion, was sentenced to six months for smuggling drugs to inmates. Authorities discovered vapes, medication, and pills hidden inside the facility, linked to Ramion's collusion with an inmate's wife.
Bellingham implements new renter protections starting August 1, prohibiting landlords from charging excessive fees. The ordinances cover fees for in-unit appliances, common areas, and mobile home parking. These rules apply to all new leases and renewals.
A statewide initiative in Washington has successfully reduced speeding in work zones, capturing nearly 7,600 violators in its first 90 days. The Washington State Patrol reported that $65,000 in fines were collected from repeat offenders, with new $125 fines for first-time infractions set to begin next year.
The Community Boating Center in Bellingham, WA, is enhancing accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges by installing a wheelchair-accessible dock and acquiring wheelchair-friendly sailboats. Executive Director Bryan Rust emphasizes that boating should be inclusive, countering the perception that it is an elite sport. The center aims to foster a supportive community for all water enthusiasts.
Skagit County officials and farmers oppose Seattle's proposal to relicense its Skagit River dams, citing concerns over potential farmland seizures for restoration projects. They demand assurances against eminent domain actions that could affect over 1,300 acres of farmland.
A Bellingham man was arrested for allegedly stealing over $9,500 worth of sports cards from his neighbor, including a prized autographed Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. The suspect, who had been given a key to the victim's home, attempted to sell the stolen cards at local shops. He was arrested on July 24 and released the following day.
The Bellingham Bells baseball team invites the community to a game on August 5, hosted by My Bellingham Now and KGMI. Attendees can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while meeting newsroom staff and fellow locals. Free tickets are available at Dewey Griffin Subaru in Bellingham.
A flash flood watch is active for eastern Whatcom and Skagit Counties due to forecasted thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall threatens to disturb burn scars from past wildfires, including areas affected by the Easy Fire and the Sourdough Mountain scar. Officials warn that flooding and debris flows may occur as a result.
Whatcom County kicks off August with several festivals, including the Ferndale Block Party and the 2025 Bigfoot Festival. The Ferndale Block Party features live music, food trucks, and activities for kids, while the Bigfoot Festival celebrates the mythical creature with vendors and live entertainment. The Acid Ball Psych Rock Music Festival also takes place, offering a lineup of various bands.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joined a coalition of 24 states in a lawsuit against the Trump administration for blocking Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood. The provision in Congressional budget legislation allegedly undermines healthcare access for low-income residents, as nearly half of Planned Parenthood's patients rely on Medicaid.