Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Average wages in Whatcom County rose 6% to $1,286 per week in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Despite this increase, Whatcom County still ranks second-lowest in weekly wages among Washington's ten largest counties. A study from SmartAsset indicates that single adults in Washington need nearly $110,000 annually to live comfortably.
The Port of Bellingham appointed Tiffany DeSimone as Interim Executive Director following Rob Fix's departure. DeSimone, a Whatcom County native with over a decade of experience at the Port, will lead critical projects while a search for a permanent director begins.
Two women were rescued in separate incidents in Okanagan County's North Cascades this week. A 25-year-old woman fell 80 feet on Silver Star Mountain, while a 48-year-old woman injured herself on the Pacific Crest Trail. Both were transported to a local hospital in stable condition.
Lieutenant Leslee Smith, a pioneering firefighter from Whatcom County, will be honored at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Olympia this Sunday. Smith, who passed away from work-related cancer in March 2024, was the first woman to serve as a career firefighter with North Whatcom Fire and Rescue.
Authorities investigate a large explosion at an Oak Harbor residence, occurring on the evening of June 17. Three adults were present; two escaped with minor injuries, while one remains unaccounted for. The Island County Sheriff’s Office seeks public assistance through an online portal for any footage of the incident.
The new "Canada Strong Pass" allows travelers and residents to access national parks for free and enjoy discounted rates at museums and galleries from June 20 to September 2. This initiative aims to encourage tourism and cultural engagement in Canada. Visitors can save money while exploring the country's natural and cultural offerings.
Property owners Kathryn and J. Patrick Sutton sued the City of Bellingham for enforcing short-term rental restrictions that they claim are unconstitutional. The city argues that their accessory dwelling units do not comply with a 2018 ordinance requiring owners to reside in rentals for at least 270 days. A motion to dismiss the lawsuit was filed, citing similarities to a previous case brought by the Suttons.
The James Street bridge in Bellingham is set to reopen by the end of the month following the installation of new sidewalks and curbs. Paving of the roadway started earlier this week, and lane closures may occur as final touches are completed.
Washington's carbon emission auction achieved a sell-out, with prices rising to $58.51 per allowance, up from $50 in March. The June auction generated approximately $322 million, contributing to nearly $3.2 billion raised over two and a half years for green-energy projects across the state.
A lawsuit claims the City of Bellingham unlawfully seized and destroyed a motorhome belonging to Jerry and Terri-Lynn Land, who lived in it for several years. The couple alleges they were denied due process and that the city did not check the vehicle's operability before declaring it a "junk vehicle." They seek damages for lost property and constitutional rights violations.