Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Funding has been secured for the repair of Sumas Square Apartments, a senior housing development in Whatcom County, which faced severe damage from flooding in November 2021. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with plans to accommodate residents by 2027. Additionally, Habitat for Humanity received a $15,000 grant to assist low-income homeowners aged 50 and over in nearby areas.
Human remains were discovered near the I-5 off-ramp onto Lakeway Drive in Bellingham, prompting an investigation. The Washington State Patrol has not yet identified the remains, and the circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear. Law enforcement maintained a presence at the scene, but traffic was not affected during the initial investigation.
Dairy farmers in Whatcom County will host the annual “Whatcom This Whey” event on June 21, featuring wagon rides, farm tours, and hands-on activities. The free event allows families to engage with local dairy producers and sample products like cheese and ice cream.
Washington State proposes a 3% increase in ferry fares for vehicles and passengers in October 2025, followed by another 3% hike in May 2026. Public comments on these proposed fare changes are being accepted until the commission's final vote on August 6.
The Washington State Department of Ecology added the Northwest Youth Services property in Mount Vernon to its contaminated sites list due to gas and oil contamination found in the soil and groundwater. The site, which previously served at-risk youth, closed its buildings in March 2025. A timeline for cleanup and reopening remains undetermined.
Mount Baker Ski Area faces potential sale under President Trump’s proposed spending bill that could allow 250 million acres of public land to be sold. Senator Patty Murray warns that the measure could harm local recreation and wildlife, while supporters argue it would increase housing availability. The ski area’s spokesperson believes it will likely be spared due to its location and the proposed bill's focus.
The 3rd Annual Juneteenth Festival in Bellingham will take place on June 21, featuring live music, a parade, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, the Downtime Summer Kickoff in Ferndale offers two days of entertainment, while Lynden hosts tractor pulls at Berthusen Park. Indoor options include a performance of "Down the Rabbit Hole" at the Mount Baker Theatre.
Authorities identified 42-year-old Mark Fakkema as the victim of a fatal explosion in his Oak Harbor home. Investigators found he was making improvised explosive devices from commercial-grade fireworks, leading to the detonation that injured two others. Fakkema lacked the necessary licenses to possess or alter these explosives.
The Seattle Sounders face Atletico Madrid today in a crucial FIFA Club World Cup match after a prior loss. Coach Brian Schmetzer acknowledges the Sounders are significant underdogs against the 11-time Spanish champions. Both teams need a win to advance, with the match kicking off at 3:00 PM from Lumen Field.
Whatcom County has added two new naloxone dispenser boxes in Bellingham to combat the opioid epidemic. The initiative follows a nearly 37% decline in opioid overdoses in the county during the first five months of 2025.