Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is set to host an open house on March 21 regarding a major construction project on Interstate 5 near Lake Samish. This initiative, costing $160 million, focuses on replacing six culverts to enhance fish migration and is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, with completion expected in 2027. The public is invited to learn more about the project and its implications for local traffic and environment.
A winter storm warning has been issued for Mount Baker, Washington, with significant snowfall expected from the evening of March 20 through the morning of March 22. The National Weather Service predicts accumulations of 12 to 20 inches and wind gusts up to 40 mph, urging travelers to exercise caution on the roads. This warning highlights the ongoing winter weather conditions impacting the ski season in the region.
The Oculis Lodge, a glamping project near Mount Baker, is listed for sale at $725,000 after disappointing investors who contributed over $1.2 million. The property, which includes only one of the promised domes, has led to legal actions against owner Youri Benoiston for his lack of updates and refunds. Additionally, Bellingham Public Schools is seeking community feedback on budget changes to address a projected $15 million deficit.
The article reports on the establishment of the Whatcom County Vikings, a new minor league football team in Bellingham, Washington. This initiative aims to provide local athletes with competitive opportunities following the closure of Western Washington University's football program in 2009. With its inaugural game scheduled for April 5, the team is part of the West Coast Pacific Minor League, which seeks to revitalize the region's football scene.
The Washington State Department of Ecology is seeking public input on a cleanup plan for the Treoil Industries site in Whatcom County, which has been contaminated by hazardous waste over decades. As part of its investigation, the department has released key documents detailing the contamination and proposed remediation strategies. The public comment period will run from March 24 to April 22, 2025.
Bellingham's rental relocation assistance ordinance, enacted in January 2024, has yet to be utilized by tenants, raising questions about its effectiveness. Advocates believe the mere presence of the ordinance has helped curb rent increases, as landlords adjust their pricing strategies to avoid triggering the assistance requirement. Community First Whatcom is actively supporting tenants in navigating their rights under the new law.
Whatcom County Health Department Director Erika Lautenbach was terminated amid accusations of leadership failures, including budget inaccuracies. Lautenbach claims her firing is a "wrongful termination" and intends to contest it. The county cited a need for new leadership to align with strategic priorities following a "pattern of concerns."
The City of Bellingham has officially commenced construction on the Old Town Village development, which aims to add approximately 800 new housing units and commercial space over the next decade. Mayor Kim Lund highlighted the project as a transformative step for the Old Town District, emphasizing its potential to revitalize the area while preserving its historic character. This initiative represents a successful collaboration between public and private sectors, addressing the critical need for housing in the community.